🥗 Grilled Zucchini & Chickpea Salad with Burrata and Chili Sauce
Smoky • Creamy • Fresh Mediterranean Flavor
This vibrant salad combines smoky grilled zucchini, protein-packed chickpeas, and creamy burrata, all finished with a bold chili sauce drizzle. It’s light yet satisfying — perfect as a summer lunch, elegant side dish, or meatless main.
Inspired by the fresh simplicity of southern Italy and Mediterranean flavors found along the coast of Greece.
🌿 Why You’ll Love It
Beautiful balance of smoky, creamy & spicy
High in plant-based protein
Naturally gluten-free
Great for entertaining
Ready in under 30 minutes
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🥒 Salad
3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
1½ cups cooked chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 ball fresh burrata
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Zest of ½ lemon
🌶️ Chili Sauce
1 tablespoon chili paste (like harissa or chili garlic sauce)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Grill the Zucchini
Brush zucchini with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Grill over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until tender with char marks.
Let cool slightly, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
2️⃣ Crisp the Chickpeas (Optional but Recommended)
In a skillet, sauté chickpeas in 1 tablespoon olive oil for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden. Season with salt.
3️⃣ Make the Chili Sauce
Whisk chili paste, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
4️⃣ Assemble
Arrange grilled zucchini and chickpeas on a serving platter.
Tear burrata gently and place in the center.
Drizzle with chili sauce.
Finish with lemon zest and fresh basil.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Serve with warm crusty bread
Pair with grilled chicken or salmon
Add quinoa for a heartier meal
Serve alongside roasted vegetables
💡 Tips for Best Flavor
✔️ Don’t overcook zucchini — keep slight firmness
✔️ Use room-temperature burrata for best creaminess
✔️ Add toasted pine nuts for crunch
✔️ For extra Mediterranean flair, add cherry tomatoes
🔁 Variations
Vegan Version – Replace burrata with avocado or vegan cheese
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes
Herby Boost – Add fresh mint or parsley
Protein Upgrade – Add grilled shrimp
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Grill zucchini and prepare chickpeas ahead. Add burrata and sauce just before serving.
Q: Can I roast instead of grill?
A: Yes! Roast at 220°C (425°F) for 15–20 minutes.
Q: Is it meal-prep friendly?
A: Yes, but store burrata separately until serving.
Q: What makes burrata special?
A: Burrata has a soft, creamy center that adds luxurious texture to fresh salads.
