Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

Smoky, creamy, and spicy, the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is a delightful summer dish that captures every flavor note in one vibrant bowl. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for dinner. With its combination of grilled zucchini, crisp chickpeas, and creamy burrata drizzled with chili oil, it’s sure to impress your guests or family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The blend of smoky paprika and fresh herbs creates a unique taste that will excite your palate.
• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from chickpeas and nutrients from zucchini, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone, as a side dish, or even as a light main course—it’s adaptable to any meal!
• Vegetarian Delight: With no meat, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to reduce meat intake.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Crucial for achieving that perfect char on the zucchini which enhances its flavor.
• Skillet: Ideal for crisping the chickpeas evenly and allows easy stirring during cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing veggies and herbs efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 1 ball burrata cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into -inch rounds

For the Dressing

• 1 tbsp apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Chili oil, for drizzling

For Flavoring

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• Cup chopped parsley

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 in a mixing bowl.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
3. Grill zucchini for 2–3 minutes per side until charred and tender. Once done, 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 while stirring occasionally until chickpeas are crisp and golden.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Spread grilled zucchini slices on a serving platter.
2. Add the crispy chickpeas over the zucchini.
3. Tear burrata cheese over the top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice, apple vinegar, and chili oil.
5. Finally, sprinkle with chopped mint and parsley before serving immediately.

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

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

This vibrant Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a juicy protein that complements the smoky flavors of the salad. Simply season and grill alongside the zucchini.

Serve in Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the salad in large lettuce leaves. This makes for a fresh and crunchy bite, ideal for outdoor picnics.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the salad. It adds texture and helps soak up the delicious juices.

Top with Extra Herbs

• Enhance the flavor by adding more fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. This will add brightness and freshness to each bite.

Drizzle with Additional Chili Oil

• If you enjoy heat, feel free to drizzle more chili oil just before serving. It elevates the dish and adds an extra kick.

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

Creating a perfect Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchinis and high-quality chickpeas for best results. Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture.

• Don’t Overcook Zucchini: Grill zucchini until it’s just tender and slightly charred. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, ruining the salad’s texture.

• Use Room Temperature Burrata: Let the burrata sit at room temperature before adding it to the salad. This brings out its creamy consistency and flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your chickpeas after cooking and adjust seasoning as needed. A well-seasoned dish is key to bringing out all flavors.

• Experiment with Garnishes: Try adding nuts or seeds for crunch or feta cheese for an extra layer of creaminess. This adds variety and richness to your dish.

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

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal experience with this salad. Here are some great options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Quinoa Pilaf – Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf adds a nutty flavor and pairs well with the creaminess of burrata.

2. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – This rich dip offers a savory contrast, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread while enjoying the salad.

3. Cucumber Raita – A cool yogurt dip balances out the spices in the salad, providing a refreshing side option.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn enhances the smoky notes from the zucchini, making it an ideal summertime side.

5. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs can easily absorb flavors from your salad, creating a harmonious meal.

6. Chickpea Fritters – Crispy chickpea fritters echo elements from your main dish while offering delightful crunch in each bite.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice or vegetables can be a colorful addition that complements your main dish nicely.

8. Simple Green Salad – A light green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to your hearty salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the grilled zucchini and chickpeas can make your salad bland. Always add salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the zucchini: Grilling zucchini for too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are charred yet tender.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted herbs or old vegetables can compromise the taste. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Lack of balance: Focusing solely on one flavor profile can make your dish less appealing. Ensure you have a mix of smoky, creamy, and spicy elements.
• Forgetting about texture: A salad needs different textures to be interesting. Combine crispy chickpeas with creamy burrata and tender zucchini for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from dressings until ready to serve to maintain texture.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of zucchini and burrata may change upon thawing.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad for about 10 minutes, covered, to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil unique?

This salad combines smoky grilled zucchini with crispy chickpeas and creamy burrata, creating a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that is perfect for summer.

Can I customize my Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or use different herbs such as basil or cilantro to suit your taste.

How can I store leftovers from my Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep dressings separate until serving for best results.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the burrata or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative for a delicious vegan version of this salad.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Zucchini Chickpea Salad with Burrata & Chili Oil is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s an ideal dish for summer gatherings or light meals. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs. Try making this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!