Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

For a refreshing and vibrant dish, try this Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad. It showcases the rich flavors of grilled zucchini, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all drizzled with a fragrant basil vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light dinner option, this salad will impress your guests with its colorful presentation and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh vegetables and herbs ensures a healthy meal packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a starter or main course; it pairs well with grilled meats or can be served on its own.
• Customizable: Feel free to modify the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Vibrant Presentation: The colorful layers of zucchini, mozzarella, and tomato make for an eye-catching dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad smoothly, certain tools are essential. These tools will help in preparing and grilling the ingredients effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect char and smoky flavor to the zucchini, enhancing its taste.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the zucchini without making a mess and ensuring even coating with marinade.
• Cutting board: A stable surface that keeps your kitchen organized while prepping ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing vegetables uniformly for an appealing presentation.

Ingredients

For this Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad, I stacked up grilled zucchini, fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil vinaigrette!

For the Salad

• 8 large zucchini slices (preferably about 3 inches across and 3/4 inch thick)
• 8 round slices of fresh mozzarella
• 8 thick slices of tomato (about 3/4 inch thick)

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup purchased or homemade vinaigrette dressing (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons basil puree or chopped fresh basil (see notes)
• 1/3 cup purchased or homemade vinaigrette dressing (see notes)
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1/2 tsp. Spike Seasoning (or any all-purpose seasoning blend that you like)

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Vinaigrette

Combine the chopped fresh or frozen basil with the vinaigrette dressing to make the basil vinaigrette. Refrigerate this while you marinate the zucchini so the basil flavor can develop in the dressing.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Cut the zucchini into slices, preferably about 3 inches across and 3/4 inch thick.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

Combine the vinaigrette, dried basil, and Spike Seasoning to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 4: Marinate the Zucchini

Put the zucchini in a Ziploc bag in a single layer, then pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate on the counter for at least 4 hours. If you’re busy, you can let it sit longer or skip this step altogether.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

When ready to cook, spray clean grill grates with oil or non-stick grill spray. Preheat your grill to high.

Step 6: Grill the Zucchini

Lay the zucchini on the grill and turn down to medium-high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side until nice grill marks appear. Rotate each piece and cook for another 5 minutes until you see criss-cross marks.

Step 7: Finish Grilling

Turn zucchini pieces over and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes on the second side until tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 8: Prepare Slices of Cheese & Tomato

While grilling, prepare your sliced mozzarella and slice tomatoes if not using pre-sliced mozzarella.

Step 9: Assemble Your Salad Stacks

To arrange stacks start with a slice of grilled zucchini, add mozzarella slice then top with a slice of tomato. Drizzle desired amount of basil vinaigrette over each stack before serving immediately.

Step 10: Serve

Offer additional basil vinaigrette at the table for guests to add as desired. Enjoy your vibrant Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

Serving Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad can elevate any meal, providing freshness and flavor. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful dish.

As a Starter

• Serve individual stacks of the salad on small plates for a beautiful appetizer.
• Drizzle with extra basil vinaigrette for an added burst of flavor.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast seasoned lightly for a satisfying main course.
• The creamy mozzarella complements the savory chicken perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the stacked salad on a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing.

As Part of a Platter

• Include the salad as part of a larger antipasto platter.
• Combine it with olives, roasted peppers, and fresh bread to create a rustic spread.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

To make your Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. Their flavors enhance the dish immensely.
• Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the zucchini for longer than four hours to deepen the flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is properly preheated. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and keeps the zucchini tender.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different herbs like oregano or thyme in addition to basil for varied flavor profiles.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the salad right after assembling it.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumber and lemon is refreshing and adds protein.
2. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for mopping up extra vinaigrette.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and earthiness to your meal.
4. Couscous Pilaf
   Fluffy couscous pilaf with herbs makes an excellent side that balances out the creaminess of mozzarella.
5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains offer a hearty addition without overpowering the salad.
6. Pasta Primavera
   A light pasta primavera tossed with olive oil enhances garden freshness while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Overcooked Zucchini: Overcooking zucchini can lead to mushy texture. Aim for a slight crispness by grilling until just tender.
• Ignoring Marinade Time: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can result in bland flavors. Allow zucchini to marinate for at least 4 hours for best results.
• Choosing Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar mozzarella or tomatoes can ruin the dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Putting zucchini on a cold grill leads to sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to high before adding the zucchini.
• Skipping the Basil Vinaigrette: A lack of seasoning can make the salad flat. Don’t skip on the basil vinaigrette; it enhances overall taste and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in zucchini and mozzarella.
• Consider freezing individual components if necessary.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad.

Can I use other vegetables in Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad?

Yes, you can add other grilled vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers for extra flavor and variety.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese alternatives instead of mozzarella.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad?

Consider adding balsamic reduction or roasted garlic to boost flavor complexity.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad?

Serve immediately after stacking for optimal freshness, drizzling extra vinaigrette on top just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Zucchini Caprese Salad is a delightful and versatile dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Its layers of flavor from fresh ingredients make it appealing to everyone. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences.