If you’re on the hunt for a refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of summer, look no further than the Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad. This delightful salad is a perfect combination of smoky and creamy textures, offering a balanced mix of lightness and satisfying flavor. The Smoky grilled zucchini paired with the creamy halloumi cheese create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with taste. Ideal for a summer lunch, this salad also makes a great standout side dish for any meal. With its vibrant flavors, it appeals to both those looking for a light meal and those wanting a side that can hold its own next to the main dish. The best part? This salad comes together with minimal hassle, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
The recipe embraces fresh ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of zucchini and halloumi to shine through. A touch of lemon juice elevates these flavors beautifully while fresh herbs add a refreshing twist. What’s not to love about a dish that’s healthy, quick, and simple to prepare? This gracious blend of garden-fresh ingredients combined with a few pantry staples is all you need to whip up a salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Additionally, with a little creativity, you can turn this salad into a fuller meal by adding grains, seeds, or extra vegetables. So, whether you’re an experienced chef looking for a new addition to your summer recipe repertoire or just someone craving an easy yet elegant dish, the Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad is your perfect match.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad
- Fresh and Flavorful: With herbs and lemon, it’s bursting with refreshing flavors.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with additional proteins or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Simple and Quick: Comes together in just half an hour, perfect for a speedy meal.
- Healthy and Light: Use quality ingredients for a nourishing bite without sacrificing taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making the Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad, a little prep work in your kitchen can ensure smooth cooking. Begin by ensuring your workspace is clean and tidy, which will help you focus on creating this delicious salad more effortlessly. Gather all your ingredients on the countertop to have everything in reach when you start cooking.
Essential tools you’ll need include a sharp knife and cutting board for precisely slicing the zucchini and halloumi, ensuring consistent thickness so they cook evenly. If you have a grill or a grill pan, that will be perfect for achieving that wonderful charred flavor and look. Alternatively, an oven broiler can do the trick if a grill is unavailable. Lastly, have a mixing bowl ready to create your marinade and toss the ingredients before grilling. Remember to preheat your grill or pan beforehand to ensure a sear on the cheese and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 200g (7 oz) halloumi, sliced into ½-inch slabs
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh herbs (mint or basil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds, grains like quinoa or farro, extra veggies such as cherry tomatoes, grilled bell peppers, or asparagus, chili flakes, chickpeas
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by thoroughly washing your zucchini and herbs to remove any dirt. Use a sharp knife to slice the zucchini into ¼-inch rounds and the halloumi into ½-inch thick slabs. Cutting these to consistent sizes ensures even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
Step 2: Crafting the Marinade
Create a simple yet effective marinade by whisking together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. For an additional flavor boost, consider incorporating your choice of herbs or a crushed garlic clove. Add the zucchini and halloumi to the bowl, tossing them gently to coat before allowing them to marinate for 15–20 minutes at room temperature. This soak infuses the ingredients with a subtle, savory taste.
Step 3: Grilling to Perfection
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Place zucchini rounds onto the grill, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a charred appearance while remaining firm. Similarly, grill the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. For best results, avoid overcrowding; grill in batches if necessary to give cooking space to each piece.
Step 4: Assembling the Salad
On a large platter or shallow bowl, elegantly arrange the grilled zucchini and halloumi. Scatter fresh mint or basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and aroma. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the salad for an extra punch of flavor. To finish, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or chili flakes, as desired, for added texture and heat.
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, making your salad a complete meal.
- Vegetables: Enhance the dish by integrating grilled bell peppers or asparagus for more vibrant color and flavor.
- Spices: Introduce some heat with chili flakes or cayenne pepper, or give it a Mediterranean twist with a pinch of za’atar.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your grill or pan is preheated for optimal searing, preventing sticking and achieving nice grill marks.
- Marinate vegetables and cheese briefly; longer marinating can make the halloumi too soft.
- If adding grains, prepare them in advance to allow cooling, which helps in building flavor absorbance.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this salad alongside grilled meats or fish to complement their rich, savory flavors.
- Pair with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon for a refreshing dining experience.
Tips
- Experiment with different herbs such as dill or tarragon to personalize the flavor to your preference.
- Use a non-stick grill pan to avoid excessive sticking if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble close to serving time. Store grilled items separately to preserve their texture.
What pairs well with this salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken or salmon and a light, citrusy white wine.
What is halloumi cheese, and why is it used?
Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese that maintains its shape when grilled or fried, adding a unique texture and flavor to dishes like this salad.
Can I substitute other cheeses for halloumi?
If you can’t find halloumi, try using another firm cheese with a high melting point, such as paneer or feta.
Conclusion
This Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad is an exemplary dish that captures the essence of summer with minimal effort. Whether served as a light lunch or a hearty side, its vibrant flavors and inviting colors are sure to impress. So why not bring a slice of this refreshing dish into your kitchen today? Feel free to experiment with different embellishments and share your creations with friends or family. We’d love to hear about your adaptations and experiences with this recipe, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or share it with friends looking for summer culinary inspiration.
Print
Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Salad is a refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of summer with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 200g (7 oz) halloumi, sliced into ½-inch slabs
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh herbs (mint or basil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds, grains like quinoa or farro, extra veggies such as cherry tomatoes, grilled bell peppers, or asparagus, chili flakes, chickpeas
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing your zucchini and herbs to remove any dirt. Use a sharp knife to slice the zucchini into ¼-inch rounds and the halloumi into ½-inch thick slabs.
- Create a simple yet effective marinade by whisking together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Place zucchini rounds onto the grill, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.
- On a large platter, elegantly arrange the grilled zucchini and halloumi. Scatter fresh mint or basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and aroma.
Notes
Ensure your grill or pan is preheated for optimal searing, preventing sticking and achieving nice grill marks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 15 g