Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad: A Fresh, Flavorful Summer Delight

JUMP TO RECIPE

As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, you know it’s time to bring out the grill and fire it up for a delightful summer meal. There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of smoky, charred vegetables and a zesty, tangy dressing. If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer, then this Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad is exactly what you need. It’s an easy-to-make, vibrant, and delicious dish that will be the star of any gathering, from casual barbecues to light weeknight dinners.

Imagine the aroma of zucchini sizzling on the grill, mingling with the sweet corn and the burst of juiciness from the cherry tomatoes. When paired with a lemony dressing and topped with creamy goat cheese, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, this salad has got you covered.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this delectable salad, tips for grilling the perfect veggies, ideas for customizing the recipe, and why this salad is a must-have for your next summer meal. Let’s dive in!

Why Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad is Perfect for Your Next Meal

A Light, Refreshing Dish for All Occasions

This Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad is the epitome of summer dining. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with fresh ingredients, and full of flavor. The smoky char from the grill combined with the sweetness of fresh corn and the richness of goat cheese makes each bite a true delight. But it’s not just about the taste—this salad is as versatile as it gets. It can be served as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone meal when you’re craving something lighter.

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

• Vibrant and Colorful: The bright green zucchini, red tomatoes, yellow corn, and peppery arugula make this salad a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Fresh vegetables like zucchini and corn are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Arugula adds a healthy dose of antioxidants, and the goat cheese provides a creamy texture without being overwhelming.
• Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: The flavors of this salad truly shine when the vegetables are grilled, making it a perfect addition to your summer BBQs or any time you’re using the grill.

Now that you know why this dish is such a great choice for any occasion, let’s go over what you’ll need to bring this vibrant salad to life.

What You’ll Need to Make Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad

To make this delicious salad, you’ll need a few key ingredients, which are divided into two sections: the vegetables and the dressing. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredients for the Vegetables:

Ingredients for Vegetables	Amount
Zucchini (medium-sized)	2
Cherry tomatoes	2 cups
Fresh corn (kernels)	2½ cups
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Salt	To taste
Fresh ground black pepper	To taste

Ingredients for the Dressing:

Ingredients for Dressing	Amount
Olive oil	3 tablespoons
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced)	1 clove
Dried oregano (or other dried herbs)	1 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Fresh ground black pepper	To taste
Arugula	2 cups
Goat cheese (crumbled)	½ cup

Tools You’ll Need:

• Grill or grill pan
• Salad bowl
• Tongs for flipping vegetables
• Whisk for the dressing

Now that you’ve got your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start grilling and assembling this flavorful salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad

1. Preheat the Grill

Before you begin grilling your vegetables, you’ll need to preheat your grill. Aim for a medium-high heat of around 425°F. This ensures that your zucchini gets those perfect grill marks, while the tomatoes and corn cook evenly. To prevent sticking, brush your grill grates with a little olive oil.

2. Grill the Vegetables

Grilling Zucchini:

• Slice your zucchini into rounds or lengthwise strips, depending on your preference. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
• Place the zucchini slices directly on the grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they become tender and develop those beautiful grill marks.

Grilling Corn and Tomatoes:

• For the tomatoes and corn, place the tomatoes and corn kernels in a grill pan or basket. Drizzle them with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Cook the mixture on the grill for around 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure an even char. The tomatoes should be slightly softened, and the corn kernels should have a nice charred exterior.

3. Make the Dressing

While your vegetables are grilling, prepare the dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano (or any dried herbs you prefer)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

This zesty dressing will tie all the flavors together, adding a burst of freshness to the grilled veggies. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

4. Assemble the Salad

Once the grilled vegetables are done, remove them from the grill and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, add the zucchini, tomatoes, and corn to a large salad bowl. Toss them with the arugula, and then pour the dressing over the top. Give everything a gentle toss to coat the ingredients in the flavorful dressing.

5. Top with Goat Cheese

For the finishing touch, crumble the goat cheese over the top of the salad. Its creamy texture adds richness that balances out the smoky grilled vegetables and the tangy lemon dressing.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Now it’s time to serve your Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad! Enjoy the fresh, smoky flavors, and let this dish transport you to a summer picnic in the sun. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the main dish, this salad is guaranteed to impress.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Vegetables

To ensure your vegetables are perfectly grilled, here are a few tips:

• Zucchini: Don’t overcook! Zucchini tends to become mushy if grilled too long. Stick to about 2 to 3 minutes per side for the best texture.
• Corn: Grilling corn directly on the grill can cause it to fall apart. Instead, use a grill pan or basket to prevent kernels from slipping through the grates.
• Tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes before grilling so they cook evenly and don’t burst on the grill. Stir them frequently to avoid charring on one side.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this recipe is delicious as-is, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Add Protein: To make this salad heartier, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or grilled tofu.
• Swap the Goat Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta or Parmesan would be excellent alternatives. For a vegan option, try a plant-based cheese or simply omit the cheese altogether.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other grilled vegetables, like bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms. These will complement the zucchini and corn beautifully.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.

The Health Benefits of Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad

This Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with health benefits. Let’s break down some of the key ingredients:

• Zucchini: Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It’s also a rich source of vitamin C and vitamin A, which are important for immune health and skin vitality.
• Corn: Fresh corn is full of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion. It’s also rich in antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.
• Goat Cheese: Goat cheese is a lighter alternative to many other cheeses, providing less fat and fewer calories while still delivering a creamy texture. Plus, it’s easier to digest for those who are lactose intolerant.
• Arugula: This leafy green is packed with vitamins A, K, and C, and is also high in calcium and iron. It’s a great way to boost your nutrient intake without adding many calories.

How to Make Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad Ahead of Time

If you’re preparing this dish for a busy week, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Here’s how:

• Grill the Vegetables: Grill the zucchini, tomatoes, and corn in advance. Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together the dressing ingredients and store them in a jar or airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Assemble the Salad: When you’re ready to serve, toss the grilled vegetables and dressing together, then top with fresh arugula and goat cheese.

FAQ About Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad

Q: Can I use other vegetables for the salad?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini for eggplant, bell peppers, or asparagus. You can also experiment with different types of squash for variety.

Q: Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

A: Yes, this salad is completely vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a grill?

A: If you don’t have a grill, you can still enjoy this salad! Roast the zucchini, corn, and tomatoes in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, or sauté them in a pan.

Conclusion: A Simple, Flavorful Salad for Any Occasion

The Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salad is an easy, refreshing dish that brings out the best of summer’s flavors. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a flavorful side, this salad is sure to impress. It’s customizable, healthy, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

So, the next time you fire up the grill, make sure this salad is part of the menu. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.

Print