Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and combines ease with elegance, the Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad is your new go-to. This vibrant salad is a perfect balance of crisp Little Gem lettuce, smoky griddled courgette, and creamy feta, tossed together for a simple yet memorable meal or side. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or something to impress at your next dinner, this recipe will shake up your salad game with its perfect blend of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cool Little Gem lettuce and warm griddled courgette delivers contrasting textures that delight the palate.
• Easy and Quick to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad comes together in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily adjust the salad for different dietary preferences or add your favorite extras.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, it always makes a fresh impression.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich feta cheese, it offers a healthy, satisfying option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad’s magic lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from creating crunch and texture to adding savory and smoky notes that bring the whole dish to life.

• Little Gem Lettuce: Provides a crisp, slightly sweet base that holds up well to tossing and dressing.
• Courgettes (Zucchini): Best when sliced lengthwise and griddled for a subtle smoky flavor and tender bite.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled for creamy saltiness that complements the fresh veggies perfectly.
• Olive Oil: Essential for grilling and dressing, it adds a fruity richness.
• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and a fresh zing to the salad’s dressing.
• Garlic: Adds savory depth when infused in the grilling process or dressing.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or mint work great for an herbal lift.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.

Variations for Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, encouraging you to tailor it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some exciting ways to switch things up:

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or toasted nuts to turn it into a heartier meal.
• Dressing Switch-Up: Try a balsamic glaze or a tahini dressing for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta for goat cheese or halloumi for a different creamy texture.
• Veggie Add-Ons: Include cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers, or red onion for more color and taste.
• Make it Vegan: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese or marinated tofu.

How to Make Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Courgettes

Slice the courgettes lengthwise into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick, then toss lightly with olive oil, salt, and a touch of crushed garlic. Heat a griddle pan over medium-high heat and cook the courgette slices for 2-3 minutes each side until grill marks appear and they become tender.

Step 2: Wash and Tear the Little Gem Lettuce

Rinse the Little Gem lettuce hearts under cold water and pat dry. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces to help them mingle effortlessly with the grilled courgettes.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing brings out the freshness of the salad ingredients without overpowering them.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the torn Little Gem leaves with the warm griddled courgette slices. Drizzle the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Add the Feta and Herbs

Finish by crumbling feta cheese over the top and sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley or mint if you like. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor contrast.

Pro Tips for Making Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

• Courgette Thickness: Keep your courgette slices thin to ensure quick cooking and maximum smokiness on the griddle.
• Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid overpowering the fresh ingredients.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the grilled courgettes cool slightly before tossing to maintain crunch and avoid wilting the lettuce.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: They elevate the flavor and add a pleasing aroma that complements the feta perfectly.
• Choose Quality Feta: A good quality, crumbly feta balances saltiness and creaminess beautifully in the salad.

How to Serve Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch, or add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving to boost flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired mains like grilled lamb chops, roasted chicken, or baked fish. It also makes a fantastic light side to a barbecue or alfresco meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning table display, serve the salad in a rustic wooden bowl or on a large platter, layering the courgette and feta strategically for color contrast. Individual servings in clear glass bowls can also look elegant and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as the texture of the lettuce and feta can be compromised.

Reheating

The griddled courgettes can be quickly reheated in a warm pan or microwave, but for the best experience, toss them back with fresh lettuce and feta after warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lettuce for the salad?

Absolutely! While Little Gem lettuce adds a perfect crunch and slight sweetness, romaine or butter lettuce can also work well, though texture and flavor will vary slightly.

How do I make the salad vegan?

Simply replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative like marinated tofu or vegan feta to keep the creamy, salty element without dairy.

Is the salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the crunchiness of the lettuce and freshness of the salad.

Can I add other grilled vegetables?

Definitely! Grilled peppers, aubergines, or asparagus pair wonderfully with the flavors in this salad and add extra variety.

What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé complements the fresh, tangy, and salty notes of this salad perfectly.

Final Thoughts

The Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad is a fantastic recipe that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels anything but ordinary. Its freshness, ease, and vibrant flavors will have you reaching for this dish again and again, whether for a quick pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing side. Give it a try and discover your new favorite salad!

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