Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad, a fresh, tasty twist perfect for any meal. This salad combines the crispness of Little Gem lettuce, the smoky sweetness of griddled courgette, and the creamy saltiness of feta cheese to create a delightful dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a dazzling side, this salad elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors in Every Bite: The combination of crisp lettuce, tender courgette, and tangy feta creates a perfect harmony of tastes.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients come together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
• Versatile and Light: It works wonderfully as a standalone meal or a vibrant side dish to grilled meats or fish.
• Nutritious and Colorful: Packed with vitamins, fresh greens, and wholesome veggies, it’s a feast for both the eyes and your body.
• Impressive and Inviting: Its beautiful presentation makes it a great option for entertaining guests or elevating weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad plays a vital role, combining texture, flavor, and color effortlessly. From creamy feta to smoky courgette, this list is simple but essential.

• Little Gem Lettuce: Offers crisp, crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s key to the salad’s freshness.
• Courgette (Zucchini): Griddled until tender and slightly charred for a smoky depth.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled over the salad for a creamy, salty punch that contrasts beautifully with the greens.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients with a silky finish.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides acidity that lifts and brightens the flavors.
• Garlic Clove: Minced finely to infuse a subtle sharpness without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the fresh ingredients.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or mint add a fragrant, herbal note to complement the other tastes.

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

Feel free to tailor this salad to your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s easy to swap or add ingredients to keep things interesting or accommodate what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts or Seeds: Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds introduce a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients.
• Swap the Feta: Try goat cheese or halloumi for a unique twist on creaminess and saltiness.
• Incorporate Grains: Add cooked quinoa or couscous to transform it into a more substantial meal.
• Include Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: For bursts of sweetness and vibrant color that complement the courgette.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta and replace the olive oil with a tangy vinaigrette or avocado slices.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Courgette

Slice the courgette lengthwise into thin strips, then brush lightly with olive oil. Heat a griddle pan until very hot and cook the courgette strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until marked and tender. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Wash and Tear the Little Gem

Rinse the Little Gem lettuce under cold water, shake off excess moisture, and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and a rustic look.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and creamy in texture.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the Little Gem with the griddled courgette strips. Drizzle the dressing over, then scatter crumbled feta and fresh herbs if using. Give the salad a gentle shake or toss to mix everything well without bruising the delicate leaves.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Transfer your Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad to a serving bowl or platter and enjoy its freshness right away for the ultimate flavor and texture experience.

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your courgette and hall ingredients to cool to room temperature before tossing to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
• Don’t Overdress: Apply just enough dressing to coat the leaves lightly, preserving their crunch and preventing sogginess.
• Grill the Courgette Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and develop more smoky char, enhancing flavor.
• Pick Quality Feta: A good-quality feta will have the perfect balance of creaminess and saltiness, elevating the dish.
• Prep Ahead: Prepare the dressing and grill the courgette in advance, then toss everything together just before serving.

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

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, cracked black pepper, or a light dusting of smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor and a pop of visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or as a refreshing complement to a simple pasta dish. It also makes a great partner to crusty bread and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors or layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a picnic-ready presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately if possible to maintain crispness.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as the lettuce and feta can become watery and lose texture upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a cold, fresh salad, reheating is unnecessary and not advised—serve leftovers chilled to preserve the crispness and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use another type of lettuce instead of Little Gem?

Absolutely! Romaine, butter lettuce, or baby gem lettuces work well too, but Little Gem offers a unique crunch and sweetness that stands out in this salad.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Dress the salad just before serving and avoid over-applying dressing. Grilling the courgette separately and cooling it first also helps maintain freshness.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it’s perfect for vegetarians. For a vegan option, simply omit the feta or substitute with plant-based cheese alternatives.

Can I meal prep this salad?

You can grill the courgette and prepare the dressing in advance, but assemble and toss the salad right before eating to keep it crisp and flavorful.

What can I add for extra protein?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or toasted nuts are great additions to boost the protein content and make the salad more filling.

Final Thoughts

The Little Gem, Griddled Courgette & Feta Shake-Up Salad is one of those recipes that feels special yet comes together in no time. Its burst of fresh flavors and gorgeous textures make it a favorite for sharing and savoring. Give it a try and watch how easily it becomes your go-to for brightening up any meal!

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