Grilled Asparagus and Zucchini Salad with a Lemon and Basil Vinaigrette
Grilled Asparagus and Zucchini Salad
Indulge in the fresh flavors of this delicious Grilled Asparagus and Zucchini Salad with a tangy Lemon and Basil Vinaigrette. The combination of grilled vegetables, zesty vinaigrette, and fragrant basil leaves creates a delightful medley of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- Asparagus Spears
- Zucchini
- Lemon
- Fresh Basil Leaves
- Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears and slice the zucchini into thin rounds.
3. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Place the asparagus spears and zucchini rounds on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and nicely charred.
5. While the vegetables are grilling, roughly chop the basil leaves.
6. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool slightly.
7. In a large bowl, combine the grilled vegetables, basil leaves, and drizzle the lemon and basil vinaigrette over the top.
8. Toss everything together gently to coat the vegetables with the vinaigrette.
9. Serve the Grilled Asparagus and Zucchini Salad as a side dish or as a light main course.
How to Prepare:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and slice the zucchini into thin rounds.
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Place the asparagus and zucchini on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely charred and tender.
- Meanwhile, chop the basil leaves.
- Remove the grilled vegetables from the grill and let them cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the grilled vegetables, basil leaves, and drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the top.
- Gently toss everything together to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the vinaigrette.
- Serve the salad as a side dish or as a light main course.
Preparation Time:
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 145mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 10g
- Protein: 6g
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the salad before serving.
- Feel free to customize the vinaigrette by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of lemon juice in the vinaigrette?
A: Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you prefer a different flavor.
Q: Can I grill the vegetables on a stovetop grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
A: Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works just as well for this recipe.
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: While it’s best to serve the salad fresh, you can prepare the grilled vegetables and the vinaigrette in advance, and assemble the salad just before serving.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this Grilled Asparagus and Zucchini Salad, perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish for your next BBQ. The combination of smoky grilled vegetables, zesty lemon-basil vinaigrette, and fresh herbs is a true celebration of seasonal produce. Try this recipe today and impress your friends and family with a delicious and healthy salad!