Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

Smoky, creamy, and spicy, the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. This salad is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light meal at home. With fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it not only satisfies but also delights your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled zucchini, crispy chickpeas, and creamy burrata creates a delightful mix of tastes and textures.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal preparation time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with veggies and herbs, this salad is a refreshing choice for warm weather dining.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors from the ingredients make this dish visually appealing on any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil, you will need some essential tools to ease the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Serving platter
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Ideal for achieving those beautiful charred marks on zucchini while enhancing the smoky flavor.
• Skillet: Perfect for crisping chickpeas to add texture to the salad.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing ingredients together before serving.
• Serving platter: Enhances presentation when assembling the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 ball burrata cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into -inch rounds
• 1 tbsp apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• 1 cup chopped parsley
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chili oil, for drizzling

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

Step 1: Grill the Zucchini

1. Toss zucchini with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
3. Grill zucchini slices for 2–3 minutes per side until charred and tender. Set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Chickpeas

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add drained chickpeas along with finely chopped garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until chickpeas are crisp and golden.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Spread grilled zucchini slices and crispy chickpeas on a serving platter.
2. Tear burrata over the top generously.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice, apple vinegar, and chili oil for an added kick.
4. Sprinkle with fresh mint and parsley before serving right away.

Enjoy your refreshing Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

This vibrant salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your meal. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it for maximum enjoyment.

As a Main Dish

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal on warm days.
• Pair it with crusty bread or pita to soak up the delicious juices.

As a Side Salad

• Complement grilled meats or roasted vegetables by serving this salad as a side.
• It works wonderfully alongside a hearty grain dish like quinoa or farro.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the salad in advance and store it in an airtight container for easy lunches.
• Keep the chili oil separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

At Picnics or Barbecues

• Pack this salad in portable containers for outdoor gatherings, adding color and flavor to your spread.
• It’s easy to share and doesn’t require utensils for enjoying.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

To elevate your salad experience, consider these simple tips for perfection.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use seasonal zucchinis and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of smoked paprika based on your heat preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Swap fresh mint with basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: Grill zucchini and chickpeas in advance; just assemble before serving.
• Garnish creatively: Add edible flowers or extra herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted slices of bread topped with garlic butter make a perfect companion.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa dish mixed with seasonal vegetables adds texture and nutrition.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of these potatoes complements the spicy salad beautifully.
4. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, cucumber, and tomatoes makes a delightful side.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Charred corn brings summer vibes and pairs well with the smoky flavors of the salad.
6. Hummus and Veggies – A platter of assorted vegetables dipped in creamy hummus offers crunch and flavor.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or veggies provide a hearty option.
8. Simple Green Salad – A light green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette balances out richer flavors from the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your zucchini and chickpeas can lead to bland flavors. Always season well with salt and pepper before grilling or cooking.

• Overcooking the zucchini: If you grill zucchini for too long, it becomes mushy. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until just tender and charred.

• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavor of fresh ones. Always opt for fresh mint and parsley for a bright finish to your salad.

• Ignoring the oil temperature: If your skillet isn’t hot enough when adding chickpeas, they won’t crisp up. Make sure to heat the oil well before adding.

• Not assembling immediately: Allowing the salad to sit too long after assembly can make it soggy. Serve right away for optimal texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep for about 2-3 days in the fridge.
• Keep burrata separate if you plan to store leftovers.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of grilled zucchini.
• If necessary, freeze chickpeas separately for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil.

Can I substitute burrata cheese?

Yes, you can use fresh mozzarella or feta cheese if burrata is unavailable. Each will offer a different taste and texture but will still complement the salad well.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the burrata or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative that suits your preferences.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add other grilled vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant. They will bring additional flavors and textures to your salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is naturally gluten-free as all ingredients used are free from gluten-containing grains.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is a delightful blend of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily; add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins as desired. Don’t hesitate to try this refreshing summer dish!