As the sun graces us with its warm embrace, it's the perfect time to embrace the flavors of summer with a refreshing and healthy dish! Our Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Salad is a delightful blend of vibrant colors, fresh produce, and the aromatic goodness of olive oil.
Let's fire up the grill and embark on a culinary journey filled with Mediterranean goodness!
Ingredients:
2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
1 red bell pepper, halved and deseeded
1 yellow bell pepper, halved and deseeded
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 red onion, cut into thick rings
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
For the dressing:
1/4 cup Olyfo's extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Marinate the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, eggplant, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle half of the olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
Grill the Vegetables:
Place the marinated vegetables on the preheated grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until tender and grill marks appear. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Assemble the Salad:
On a large serving platter, arrange the grilled vegetables in a colorful and appetizing display. Scatter fresh basil and mint leaves over the vegetables for a burst of herbal freshness.
Drizzle the Dressing:
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the grilled vegetable salad. The dressing's tangy flavors will complement the smoky grilled vegetables and elevate the dish to new heights.
Optional Garnish:
For an extra touch of creaminess and tang, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Salad as a light and refreshing main course or a vibrant side dish to complement your summer meals. Enjoy it with crusty bread or alongside grilled meats for a delightful and healthy summer feast.
Gather your loved ones, embrace the sunshine, and savor this delightful salad that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your summer table.
Happy cooking!