This Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Salad is marinated in a balsamic-tomato vinaigrette and topped with sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. It’s quick, easy, gluten-free, and totally delicious.
There’s something magical about the combination of smoky, char-grilled vegetables, tangy balsamic dressing, and crumbled feta. Take this balsamic grilled vegetable salad – a dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and requires the simplest prep. This recipe’s history is steeped in the Italian tradition of grilling vegetables and pairing them with bold flavors like balsamic vinegar and robust cheeses. And it’s a good thing pairing char-grilled vegetables with salads has become quite popular well beyond Italian kitchens! If you find you love this salad, you’ll want to also try this particularly yummy Grilled Sweet Potato Salad and this insanely good Grilled Zucchini And Green Bean Salad as well.
I don’t have the exact recipe, but I first encountered a similar grilled vegetable salad at an Italian restaurant in Honolulu. It was a memorable and delicious meal shared with my cousin. That particular version featured marinated, grilled artichokes, and to this day, I consider it one of the best salads I’ve ever had.
In this recipe, it’s the balsamic vinegar that makes this dish a total standout. With a history dating back to the Middle Ages in Italy, it was once crafted as a luxury product exclusively for royalty. Over time, it has evolved into something a bit more ubiquitous in kitchens around the world. When paired with the smoky richness of grilled vegetables, its bright, zesty flavor creates a phenomenal combination.
Is Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Salad Healthy?
This recipe ticks a lot of health-conscious boxes while keeping the flavor fresh and intense. It’s naturally gluten-free, and also fits the low-carb, keto, and Mediterranean-style eating plans. For those following a Whole30 plan, you can either omit the cheese entirely or substitute it with pine nuts. While feta and pine nuts offer different flavor profiles, pine nuts are always a fantastic addition. Just be sure to check that the specific balsamic vinegar you’re using is Whole30 compliant. Packed with nutrient-rich veggies, high-quality olive oil, and the tangy punch of balsamic vinegar, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to add more fresh and wholesome ingredients to their meals.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
If there’s one step you shouldn’t skip in this recipe, it’s patiently marinating the vegetables. The balsamic vinaigrette not only enhances the flavor but also sufficiently tenderizes the veggies before they hit the grill. Marinating the vegetables for at least two hours in the refrigerator, covered, allows the flavors to meld and subtly infuse the vegetables.
The sun-dried tomatoes add another layer of complexity to this dish; their slightly sweet, briny flavor perfectly complements the smoky grilled vegetables and tangy dressing. If you haven’t tried sun-dried tomatoes in a salad before, prepare to be delighted – they’re a genuine game-changer.
FAQs & Tips
How to make ahead and store
This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep fresh for 3-4 days. Store the vinaigrette separately, and toss it (or compost!) after reheating.
Can I grill vegetables for this salad without oil?
You can grill the vegetables with or without oil, but you’ll notice a difference in flavor if you choose not to use any. If you’d prefer to use less oil than the recipe suggests, that’s perfectly fine. However, I do recommend using at least a small amount—or even a light mist of cooking spray—to enhance the richness of the flavor.
Can I use other vegetables?
This recipe invites you to get creative. Feel free to experiment with bell pepper, mushrooms, or even eggplant for variety. The key is to utilize veggies that can withstand grilling and absorb the flavors of the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Balsamic grilled vegetable salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. As long as you’re firing up your grill, make your main dish easy, with Grilled Cod, Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp, or Tomato Grilled Moroccan Chicken. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with a hearty side of Roasted Eggplant. A crusty loaf of bread with this Bread Dipping Oil will take your dinner to the next level! And if you’re celebrating something special (or you just want a refreshing summer cocktail), you can lighten things up with this fruity, minty, colorful Pimm’s Cup Cocktail.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup roasted red peppers from a jar, sliced (about 1-1/2 full peppers)
- 1 1/2 cups asparagus, broken into large pieces
- 1 1/2 cups cups zucchini, sliced (about 1 large zucchini)
- 1/2 cup red onion, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons oil from a jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- Pinch of salt/pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon capers, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped, plus additional for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh basil, minced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the sliced roasted red pepper, asparagus, sliced zucchini, and chopped red onion into a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 teaspoons oil, and pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over the vegetables, mixing well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Once the vegetables have marinated, preheat your grill to medium/high heat and place a grill basket on top.
- Place the vegetables into the grill basket, reserving the balsamic vinegar mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred.
- While the vegetables grill, combine the reserved balsamic vinegar mixture with 1/2 teaspoon capers, 1/2 teaspoon garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in a small food processor. Process until well combined (you may still have some small tomato chunks – this is fine).
- Place the grilled veggies in a bowl and toss with the balsamic vinaigrette. Garnish with additional sun-dried tomatoes, capers, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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