Description
This vibrant grilled courgette and halloumi salad is a delightful combination of charred baby courgettes and golden, crispy halloumi cheese, dressed with a zesty caper and lemon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad balances smoky, salty, and bright flavors with a hint of heat from red chilli.
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, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of cold water, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the courgettes: Place the halved baby courgettes in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Grill the courgettes: Heat a griddle pan to high. Add the courgettes cut-side down in batches to avoid overcrowding. Grill for 4-5 minutes until char marks appear and the flesh softens, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer them to a shallow bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Cook the halloumi: While the courgettes are resting, heat a separate large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the grilled courgettes and halloumi on a large plate or platter. Spoon over the caper and lemon dressing evenly and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated to enhance the flavors.
- Use a hot griddle pan to achieve perfect char marks on the courgettes.
- Halloumi cooks quickly; watch closely to avoid burning.
- This salad is best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- For a smoky twist, try grilling the courgettes on an outdoor grill.
- 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 grilled salad
