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Fresh Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad with veggies

Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad


  • Author: Sarah Mendez
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad is a summer essential—packed with smoky grilled vegetables, creamy feta dressing, and fresh herbs. It’s vibrant, healthy, and satisfying enough to stand on its own or work as a flavorful side dish for your next barbecue.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears of corn (shucked): Fresh, sweet corn gives the salad its signature texture and flavor.
  • 2 zucchini (cut into 1/2 inch rounds): Adds color and soaks up delicious grill flavor.
  • 1 bunch scallions (trimmed): Offers a mild onion flavor that grills beautifully.
  • 1 jalapeño (stem removed): Adds a spicy kick—adjust to taste or omit if preferred.
  • 3 tbsp olive oil: For brushing veggies before grilling.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season veggies before grilling.
  • 4 oz feta cheese (crumbled): The base of the creamy dressing—tangy and rich.
  • 1/3 cup olive oil: For the dressing base.
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced): Brightens and balances the flavors in the dressing.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Adds richness and depth to the dressing.
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives (snipped): For herbal freshness and color.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped): Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.
  • 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped): A crisp, crunchy base.
  • 2 ripe avocados (sliced or diced): Creamy and healthy, they balance the salad perfectly.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Cherry tomatoes: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Radishes: For a crisp, peppery bite.
  • Tortilla strips: Adds crunch and contrast.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

  • No grill? Use a grill pan or roast vegetables at 425°F until lightly charred.
  • Dairy-free: Use a vegan feta or omit cheese and adjust seasoning.
  • Time-saving tip: Buy pre-cut or pre-grilled vegetables when available.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high.
  2. Brush and Season: Lightly brush corn, zucchini, scallions, and jalapeño with 3 tbsp olive oil. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Grill Veggies: Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. Chop and Slice: Cut corn kernels off the cob. Slice zucchini and scallions into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
  5. Make Dressing: In a blender, combine 4 oz feta, 1/3 cup olive oil, grilled jalapeño, lemon zest and juice, and garlic. Blend until smooth. Thin with water if needed for pourable consistency.
  6. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine romaine, grilled corn, zucchini, scallions, and avocado. Add fresh chives and cilantro. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently.
  7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more dressing if desired. Garnish with optional toppings like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or tortilla strips.

Notes

  • Meal Prep Tip: You can grill the veggies a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
  • Storage: Keep dressing and chopped veggies separate if making ahead. Combine just before serving.
  • Spice Level: For extra heat, leave seeds in the jalapeño or add a second one!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: undefined
  • Trans Fat: undefined
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: undefined

Keywords: grilled corn zucchini salad, summer corn salad, feta herb salad, avocado salad with grilled vegetables, gluten-free grilled salad, healthy summer side dish