Grilled Zucchini & Chickpea Salad with Burrata

🥗 Grilled Zucchini & Chickpea Salad with Burrata

🔹 Servings: 2–4

🔹 Prep Time: 15 minutes

🔹 Cook Time: 10 minutes

🔹 Total Time: ~25 minutes

📝 Ingredients

🔸 For the Salad:

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch strips

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 ball fresh burrata (about 4 oz)

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for heat

🔸 Optional Add-ins:

• Handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach

• 1 tbsp capers or chopped green olives

• Roasted pine nuts or slivered almonds

• Sliced red onion or shallots (pickled or raw)

🔸 For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (or red wine vinegar)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ tsp honey or maple syrup (for balance)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

🔹 1. Grill the Zucchini:

1. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.

2. Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

3. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until soft and nicely charred. Set aside to cool slightly.

🔹 2. Prepare the Chickpeas:

• In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with a bit of olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.

• Optional: Pan-toast them for 3–5 minutes for extra texture.

🔹 3. Make the Dressing:

1. Whisk together all dressing ingredients until emulsified.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more lemon for brightness, honey for balance, etc.).

🔹 4. Assemble the Salad:

1. On a serving platter or bowl, layer grilled zucchini and chickpeas.

2. Add any optional greens or toppings.

3. Tear the burrata over the top (or place whole in the center).

4. Drizzle generously with dressing.

5. Finish with cracked pepper and a touch of lemon zest or herbs (like basil or mint), if desired.

🍽️ Serving Tips:

• Best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

• Pairs well with grilled bread, pita, or as a side to grilled chicken or fish.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for 1–2 days (add burrata fresh if storing ahead).