Fresh Salad with Feta and Grilled Zucchini

This fresh salad combines the crispness of cucumber and cherry tomatoes with the rich flavors of feta cheese and grilled zucchini, offering a delightful dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. With the subtle tang of lemon juice and the salty bite of olives, each mouthful is an explosion of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The arugula adds a peppery note, balancing the sweetness of the grilled zucchini. Quick to prepare, this dish comes together in just half an hour, making it a convenient option for busy days. Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers a visually appealing presentation. It's versatile too, allowing you to incorporate your favorite seasonal veggies or omit ingredients to suit dietary needs. Experiment with flavors and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for an added zest. This salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 long cucumber
1 zucchini
7-10 cherry tomatoes
50-70 g arugula
10-15 black olives, pitted
50 g feta cheese

Sauces & Spices

Olive oil
Lemon juice
Salt

Preparation Time

30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by cutting the zucchini into slices. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the slices and grill them on a grill or grill pan, being careful not to overcook. They should remain firm yet slightly crunchy in the middle.
While the zucchini is cooling, cut the cucumber into large pieces and slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
Place the cucumber and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
Add the arugula and pitted black olives to the bowl.
Once the zucchini is cooled, add it to the mixture in the bowl.
Drizzle a minimal amount of olive oil over the salad, then add lemon juice to taste. Adjust the tartness according to your preference.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
Before serving, crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowls, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
For an additional flavor boost, add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
Serve immediately as a main course for three or alongside other dishes.
This salad is also perfect for picnics or as a lunchtime meal prep as it stays fresh and vibrant.
If you wish to keep it in the fridge, make sure it is well-covered to preserve the flavors.
Give it a slight toss with a bit of lemon juice before serving if it has been stored.
Remove from the fridge about 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Feel free to add your touches, such as a handful of pine nuts for crunch.
This recipe can be doubled easily to serve a crowd.
Be mindful not to overdose on salt as the feta cheese and olives provide a salty punch.
This salad can complement a variety of main dishes like grilled chicken or fish.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing salad!

Tips

**Substitute** regular tomatoes for cherry tomatoes if desired.
If you can't find arugula, baby spinach is a great alternative.
For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or replace it with your favorite plant-based cheese.

Nutritions (per serving)

Calories: 180, Protein: 5g, Fat: 12g, Carbohydrates: 14g

Variations

**Keto-friendly**: Replace cherry tomatoes with more greens and avoid high-carb vegetables.
**Gluten-free**: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the feta cheese you use is certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This fresh salad is perfect on its own or paired with:

Grilled chicken for a protein boost.
Quinoa salad for a hearty side.
Whole grain bread for a complete meal.

Best Places

The Garden Café - Known for its lush green ambiance and fresh organic salads. Location: 123 Green St, Portland, USA.
Bistro Botanica - Offers a seasonal menu with local ingredients. Location: 456 Plant Ln, Vancouver, Canada.
Salad & Co. - Specializes in a wide variety of creative and healthy salads. Location: 789 Leaf St, Sydney, Australia.
Herbivore Café - Features fresh vegetarian options in a cozy atmosphere. Location: 1012 Veggie Ave, London, UK.
Fresh Delights - A perfect spot for a quick, healthy meal. Location: 345 Freshway, Auckland, New Zealand.
Leafy Greens - Offers stunning garden views and organic dishes. Location: 678 Nature Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Green Bites - Known for delicious and nutritious food. Location: 910 Nutritious Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
Veggie Haven - A quaint eatery with diverse salad options. Location: 1112 Pleasant St, Tokyo, Japan.
Pure Plate - Focuses on pure and organic produce for all dishes. Location: 1415 Clean Ave, Berlin, Germany.
Oasis Café - Renowned for its creative and flavorful offerings. Location: 1618 Sanctuary Blvd, Mumbai, India.