Description
Mediterranean-inspired garlicky grilled veggie salad merges charred summer vegetables with zesty herb dressing. Crisp ingredients create fresh, layered flavors that invite you to savor each garden-fresh bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 to 8 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters / ¼ cup) chopped cilantro, or parsley; or both
- 3 tbsps (45 mL) lemon juice
- ¼ cup (60 mL) olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables: Rinse and thoroughly dry zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, and red onion. Halve zucchini and mushrooms, cut bell peppers into substantial wedges, and slice onions into robust rings.
- Season and Oil: Arrange vegetables on a spacious baking tray, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and crushed rosemary across the vegetables for a flavor-packed seasoning.
- Grill Technique: Preheat indoor grill pan or outdoor barbecue to 500°F (260°C), ensuring uniform heat distribution. Position vegetable pieces in a single layer to promote optimal caramelization, grilling 3-4 minutes per side. For outdoor grilling, periodically close lid to enhance smoky characteristics and accelerate cooking.
- Chop and Dress: After grilling, allow vegetables to cool slightly, then chop into consistent bite-sized pieces. Whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, and sea salt to create a vibrant dressing.
- Final Presentation: Transfer grilled vegetables to a large mixing bowl, pour dressing over top, and gently toss to ensure even coating. Serve warm to maximize flavor complexity and sensory experience.
Notes
- Rinse and Dry Thoroughly: Ensure vegetables are completely clean and moisture-free to achieve perfect grilling and prevent steaming.
- Slice Evenly: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for consistent cooking and attractive presentation, preventing uneven charring.
- Grill at High Heat: Maintain medium-high temperature around 500°F to create beautiful caramelization and develop deep, smoky flavors.
- Dress Immediately: Pour garlic-herb dressing while vegetables are still warm to help them absorb maximum flavor and enhance overall taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg