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Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

The Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad is a vibrant and fresh salad combining crisp Little Gem lettuce, smoky griddled courgette slices, and creamy crumbled feta cheese. Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes, this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors — ideal as a light meal, side dish, or impressive addition to any occasion. With its nutritious ingredients and versatile options, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice for salad lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 Little Gem lettuce hearts
  • 2 medium courgettes (zucchini)
  • 100g crumbled feta cheese

Dressing and Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for grilling)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, crushed
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Courgettes: Slice the courgettes lengthwise into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. Toss them lightly with olive oil, salt, and crushed garlic. Heat a griddle pan over medium-high heat and cook the courgette slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and they become tender.
  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 ensure they mix well with the grilled courgettes.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a simple, bright dressing that complements the salad’s fresh ingredients.
  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 the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Add the Feta and Herbs: Finish by crumbling the feta cheese over the top and sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley or mint if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor contrast.

Notes

  • Keep courgette slices thin to ensure quick cooking and optimal smokiness.
  • Add dressing gradually to avoid overpowering the fresh ingredients.
  • Allow grilled courgettes to cool slightly before tossing to maintain lettuce crunch and avoid wilting.
  • Fresh herbs enhance flavor and aroma, pairing well with the feta.
  • Choose good quality crumbly feta cheese for the best balance of saltiness and creaminess.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; keep dressing separate until serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the lettuce and feta.
  • Reheat grilled courgettes gently before assembling leftovers with fresh lettuce and feta.

Nutrition

Keywords: Little Gem lettuce salad, griddled courgette salad, feta cheese salad, fresh vegetable salad, Mediterranean salad, quick salad recipe