Description
A vibrant and delicious grilled courgette and halloumi salad dressed with a tangy caper and lemon dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish, combining smoky charred courgettes and crispy golden halloumi with a fresh and zesty dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 10–12 baby courgettes, halved lengthways
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 225g block halloumi, thinly sliced (about 16 slices)
Dressing
- 1 long shallot, finely chopped
- 1 red chilli, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp capers
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp cold water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped shallot, red chilli, crushed garlic, lemon zest and juice, capers, olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Season with a pinch of salt and mix thoroughly until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toss the courgettes: Place the halved baby courgettes in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and add a pinch of salt. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with oil and seasoning.
- Grill the courgettes: Heat a griddle pan over high heat. Add the courgettes cut-side down in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for 4-5 minutes until char marks appear and the flesh softens. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remove grilled courgettes to a shallow bowl and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Cook the halloumi: Heat a separate large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange the grilled courgettes and cooked halloumi slices on a large plate or platter. Spoon the prepared caper and lemon dressing evenly over the salad. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use a hot griddle pan to achieve distinct char marks on the courgettes.
- You can adjust the amount of chilli according to your heat preference.
- Halloumi can be substituted with a vegetarian-friendly cheese if desired.
- This salad can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: grilled courgette salad, halloumi salad, caper lemon dressing, Mediterranean salad, vegetarian salad
