Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

 Craving a vibrant and flavorful salad that screams summer? This Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad with Lime Vinaigrette is bursting with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Inspired by sunny days and backyard barbecues, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at your next gathering, or a simple weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad

This salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for more:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Smoky Flavor: Grilling adds a delightful char and depth of flavor.
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with vitamins and nutrients from fresh vegetables.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and additions.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Impressive Presentation: Looks beautiful and tastes even better!
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
• Perfect for Summer: Captures the essence of summer flavors.

This salad offers less fuss and more flavor than many elaborate recipes, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed for Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant salad. Fresh ingredients are key, so choose the best you can find!

• 2 ears of corn, husked (about 300g)
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise (about 400g)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (60ml)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (30ml) – Freshly squeezed is best!
• 1 teaspoon honey (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1g)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (a small bunch)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, about 30g)

For the best results, choose firm zucchinis and plump ears of corn. Find fresh cilantro at your local farmers market for a vibrant, aromatic addition. Lightly toast the salt and pepper to enhance their flavor profile!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks – A perfect appetizer or side to complement your salad.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools will make preparing this salad a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Grill: For achieving that signature smoky flavor. A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly.
• Brush: To evenly coat the corn and zucchini with olive oil.
• Knife: A sharp knife for slicing the zucchini and cutting the corn kernels.
• Cutting Board: To protect your countertop while prepping.
• Mixing Bowls: For tossing the salad and whisking the vinaigrette.
• Whisk: To emulsify the lime vinaigrette for a smooth and creamy texture.

Optional: Tongs for easy grilling and a corn stripper for removing kernels quickly.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

this …

• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on how many servings you need!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad with Lime Vinaigrette!

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Ensure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Brush the husked corn and zucchini slices lightly with olive oil. This helps them char nicely and prevents them from drying out.

Step 3: Grill the Corn and Zucchini

Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and grill marks appear. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 4: Cool and Cut

Let the corn and zucchini cool slightly. Use a knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Slice the zucchini into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Make the Lime Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, zucchini, and cilantro. Drizzle with the lime vinaigrette and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Serve

If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy immediately, or chill for later. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits!

CHECK OUT: Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips – If you love zucchini, don’t miss this healthy snack alternative!

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad is a hit:

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Aim for tender-crisp.
• Use fresh lime juice: It makes a big difference in flavor!
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Add more honey if you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette.
• Grill marks matter: They add a smoky visual appeal.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for 15-20 minutes before serving enhances the flavors.

If the grill is too hot, lower the heat or move the vegetables to a cooler part of the grill to prevent burning.

Variations & Substitutions

Get creative with your salad! Here are some ideas:

• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be delicious additions.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a kick.
• Different cheese: Try goat cheese, cotija, or parmesan instead of feta.
• Herbs: Experiment with basil, mint, or parsley instead of cilantro.
• Vegan option: Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative and ensure the honey is replaced with agave.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad

This salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals:

• Main Course: Serve with grilled salmon or tofu for a complete meal.

• Side Dish: Perfect alongside burgers, sandwiches, or tacos.
• Appetizer: Offer as a refreshing start to a summer barbecue.
• Drinks: Pair with sparkling water, iced tea, or a non-alcoholic mojito.

This salad is especially delightful during summer gatherings and outdoor picnics. Drizzle extra vinaigrette for an extra burst of flavor!

Health Benefits

This Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

• Corn: Provides fiber and antioxidants.
• Zucchini: A good source of vitamins A and C.
• Lime Juice: Rich in vitamin C and helps boost immunity.
• Cilantro: Contains vitamins K and A.

The fiber in this salad aids digestion, while the vitamins contribute to overall health and well-being. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your salad:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables may become soggy.

To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, store the vinaigrette separately and add it just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it before grilling for best results.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft on the grill?

Ensure the grill is hot and don’t overcrowd the grates. Grill for a shorter amount of time, just until grill marks appear.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes would be great additions.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender and slightly charred.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 25g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more flavorful recipes? Check out these tasty options!

• Lemon Orzo Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas – A refreshing and light salad perfect for any occasion.
• Black Bean Corn Avocado Salad with Lime Vinaigrette – Another zesty salad with a similar flavor profile.
• Chickpea Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A creamy and satisfying salad that’s easy to make.

Conclusion

This Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad with Lime Vinaigrette is a fast, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight and impress your friends and family with this vibrant and delicious salad! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!


Print