Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

Smoky, creamy, and spicy, the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is the perfect summer dish. This vibrant salad combines fresh ingredients to create a delightful medley of flavors that can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish brings together the richness of burrata with the earthy notes of chickpeas and the charred goodness of grilled zucchini.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled zucchini, crispy chickpeas, and creamy burrata creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; it pairs well with various proteins or stands alone as a vegetarian delight.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and legumes, this salad is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or Grill Pan
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Serving Platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: This tool is crucial for achieving that smoky flavor in your zucchini while providing beautiful grill marks.
• Skillet: Perfect for crisping up chickpeas to add texture to your salad.
• Mixing Bowl: A must-have for mixing your ingredients seamlessly before serving.
• Serving Platter: An attractive way to present your final dish, enhancing its visual appeal.

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 ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• ½ 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 slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
3. Grill zucchini for 2-3 minutes per side until charred and tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Chickpeas

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add rinsed chickpeas along with chopped garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chickpeas are crisp and golden brown.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Spread the grilled zucchini slices on a serving platter alongside the crispy chickpeas.
2. Tear burrata cheese over the top generously.
3. Drizzle lemon juice and apple vinegar across the salad.
4. Finish with a drizzle of chili oil and sprinkle chopped mint and parsley on top. Serve immediately for best flavor!

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

This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light weeknight dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Grilled Bread

• Toast slices of crusty bread on the grill to complement the smoky flavors of the salad. Serve them alongside for dipping into the creamy burrata.

Add a Protein Boost

• Include grilled chicken or turkey slices for a heartier option. This addition will not only boost protein but also enhance the overall flavor profile.

Serve Over Quinoa

• For a wholesome touch, serve the salad over a bed of fluffy quinoa. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the grilled zucchini and chickpeas.

Integrate Fresh Greens

• Mix in fresh spinach or arugula for added texture and nutrition. The greens will add a peppery taste that balances the creaminess of the burrata.

Drizzle Extra Chili Oil

• For those who love heat, offer extra chili oil on the side. This allows guests to customize their spice level and enjoy an extra kick.

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

Creating the perfect Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad requires a few tips to enhance flavors and textures. Follow these suggestions for an amazing dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe zucchini and fresh herbs to ensure maximum flavor. Quality ingredients make all the difference in this salad.

• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding zucchini. A properly heated grill creates beautiful char marks and enhances smokiness.

• Don’t Overcook Chickpeas: Keep an eye on chickpeas while cooking them in the skillet. You want them crispy but not burnt for ideal texture.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs like basil or cilantro along with mint and parsley. This adds complexity and freshness to your salad.

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

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well with your Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the smoky flavors of the salad perfectly. Brush it with olive oil and grill until tender.

2. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers can provide a refreshing contrast to your main dish.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes add sweetness and texture, making them a delightful side option.

4. Mediterranean Hummus: Serve hummus as a dip alongside pita bread or vegetables for additional flavor and nourishment.

5. Chickpea Patties: For more protein, serve baked or pan-fried chickpea patties that echo the flavors of your main salad dish.

6. Feta Cheese Platter: Offer a platter of feta cheese mixed with olives and spices to enhance Mediterranean vibes at your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the taste and presentation.

• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season zucchini and chickpeas can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.

• Overcooking the zucchini – Cooking zucchini for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side on the grill until just tender and charred.

• Using stale ingredients – Freshness matters! Ensure your herbs, chickpeas, and burrata are fresh for the best flavor. Check expiration dates before use.

• Ignoring texture contrast – A good salad has varied textures. Make sure to crisp up the chickpeas for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy burrata.

• Neglecting presentation – A salad that’s well-plated is more appetizing. Arrange the grilled zucchini, crispy chickpeas, and burrata artfully on a serving platter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• • Duration: Can be frozen for up to 1 month; however, note that burrata may not maintain its texture when thawed.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Place portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop – Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other cheeses instead of burrata?

Yes! You can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella or feta cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make my salad more filling?

To make your Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil more filling, consider adding quinoa or couscous as a base.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components in advance and combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add roasted bell peppers, olives, or avocado for additional flavors and textures in your salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep. Just store each component separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is a delightful mix of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors that make it perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try making it today!