Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces Fior di Latte cheese, sliced
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush sliced zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill zucchinis for 3-4 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and zucchinis are tender.
4. Arrange grilled zucchinis on a serving platter.
5. Top with sliced Fior di Latte cheese, arugula, chopped fresh herbs, and chopped walnuts.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil.
7. Drizzle dressing over the salad.
8. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 346
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If Fior di Latte cheese is not available, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
- Arugula can be substituted with mixed greens or spinach.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute zucchinis with eggplants or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Use different herbs such as thyme or oregano for a different taste.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush the zucchinis with enough olive oil to prevent sticking to the grill pan or outdoor grill.
- Let the zucchinis cool for a few minutes before arranging them on the serving platter to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before chopping them for a nuttier flavor.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served immediately and does not store well.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the salad on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs or edible flowers can be used as garnishes.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled bread or roasted vegetables would be great side dishes for this salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the zucchinis are sticking to the grill pan or outdoor grill, brush them with more olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Use a clean cutting board and knife when preparing the ingredients.
Food history:
- Fior di Latte cheese is a type of fresh mozzarella that originated in Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a fresh and light flavor profile with hints of sweetness from the honey and balsamic vinegar.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
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Region: Italian