A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad featuring grilled zucchini, fresh vegetables, and a zesty balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light meal.
Author:inass sped
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4-6 servings 1x
Category:Salad
Method:Grilling and Mixing
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium zucchinis
8 ounces pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup bell peppers, diced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat. Slice zucchinis lengthwise into thick strips. Brush lightly with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with grill marks. Let cool.
Chop cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion.
Dice the cooled grilled zucchini.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and basil.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Add crumbled feta cheese and toss again gently.
Allow salad to sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors, or serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Experiment with different herbs like parsley or thyme.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
For a creamy texture, add Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Consider grilling other vegetables like eggplant or asparagus.
Balance the dressing’s flavors to your preference.