Description
A refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring Little Gem lettuce, griddled courgette strips, and crumbled feta cheese, tossed with a zesty lemon and white wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for a light, flavorful meal or side dish with options to customize protein and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 heads of Little Gem lettuce, leaves separated
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), sliced into thin strips lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- small handful fresh mint leaves, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Courgettes: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Toss the courgette slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using, ensuring they are evenly coated for flavor.
- Grill the Courgettes: Grill the seasoned courgettes in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side until tender and lightly charred. This griddling process adds a smoky flavor and softens the texture. Once grilled, set them aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the separated Little Gem lettuce leaves, grilled courgettes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh mint. This mix balances fresh, grilled, and creamy elements.
- Make the Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, vigorously shake or whisk together lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil until well emulsified. This bright dressing brings acidity and richness to the salad.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or chill for 10 minutes if you prefer a slightly crispier texture.
Notes
- This salad pairs wonderfully with added chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Feta can be substituted with goat cheese or grilled halloumi for a different flavor profile.
- Best served fresh but can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 1 day without loss of flavor or texture.
