Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer? Look no further than this Grilled Zucchini Onion Salad with Basil Dressing! Bursting with flavor and color, this Italian-inspired recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. In just 25 minutes, you can create a delightful side dish or a light salad that's perfect for any occasion. Get ready to elevate your grilling game and discover how easy it is to enjoy the tastes of summer in every bite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the grill or grill pan by preheating to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis and onion thoroughly. Slice zucchinis lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips. Cut the onion into 1/2-inch thick rings, keeping the rings intact for easier grilling.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the zucchini and onion slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange the zucchini and onion slices on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop nice char marks and become tender. Rotate the vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling.
- While the vegetables are grilling, prepare the basil dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, chopped fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Once the vegetables are grilled to perfection, remove them from the heat and transfer to a serving platter. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Drizzle the fresh basil dressing over the grilled vegetables, ensuring they are evenly coated. Serve warm as a side dish or light summer salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select firm, fresh zucchinis and onions. Look for zucchinis that are bright green and free of blemishes.
- Oil the Grill Properly: Before grilling, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to wipe the grates.
- Cut Uniformly: Slice the zucchini and onion into even thicknesses to ensure they cook evenly on the grill. This will help achieve that perfect char without overcooking.
- Don’t Rush the Grill: Allow the vegetables to grill undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on each side. This will help develop those beautiful grill marks and enhance their flavor.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize the basil dressing by adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of garlic for an extra kick. You can also toss in other grilled vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant for variety.
- Serve Warm or Cold: This salad can be enjoyed warm right off the grill or chilled for a refreshing side dish. It’s versatile enough for any meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
