Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad: 6-Minute Crispy Chickpeas

Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Zucchini chickpea burrata salad has become my absolute go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that feels both incredibly healthy and satisfyingly decadent. I still remember the first time I tasted a truly great Mediterranean zucchini chickpea burrata salad; the combination of smoky grilled zucchini, perfectly crisp chickpeas, and that luscious, creamy burrata was a revelation. It’s the perfect warm-weather dish, bursting with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. This simple zucchini chickpea burrata salad recipe is my answer to those busy weeknights when I want something gorgeous and delicious without a fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

You’re going to adore this Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad for so many reasons. It’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to put together.

  • Incredible taste: smoky grilled zucchini, crispy seasoned chickpeas, creamy burrata, and a bright herb dressing create a perfect balance.
  • Super quick prep: This easy zucchini chickpea burrata salad comes together in about 30 minutes total.
  • Healthy and satisfying: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable fresh ingredients.
  • Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters often enjoy the different textures and mild flavors.
  • Versatile: It works wonderfully as a light lunch, a stunning appetizer, or a vibrant side dish.
  • An easy zucchini chickpea burrata salad that always impresses guests.

Ingredients for Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Gathering these zucchini chickpea burrata salad ingredients is the first step to creating this vibrant dish.

  • 1 ball burrata cheese – This creamy, fresh cheese is the star, melting beautifully into the warm components.
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds – Grilling these brings out their sweetness and adds a lovely smoky char.
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained – We’ll crisp these up with spices for a delightful crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Essential for grilling the zucchini and crisping the chickpeas.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This gives our chickpeas a wonderful smoky flavor and a hint of color.
  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped – Adds a pungent kick to the crispy chickpeas.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – For a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped – Adds a cool, refreshing note that balances the richness.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Provides brightness and acidity to the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – Adds a tangy depth to our herb dressing.
  • Chili oil, for drizzling – A touch of heat to finish the dish.

How to Make Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Follow these simple steps to create this delightful Mediterranean zucchini chickpea burrata salad. I find the process quite therapeutic, and the results are always stunning.

  1. Step 1: Prepare the zucchini. In a bowl, toss the 1/4-inch thick zucchini rounds with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and black pepper. Heat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the zucchini slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are tender and have lovely char marks. Remove them from the grill and set them aside.
  2. Step 2: Crisp the chickpeas. While the zucchini grills, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, the finely chopped garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the chickpeas are golden and delightfully crispy. This is a key step in how to make zucchini chickpea burrata salad shine.
  3. Step 3: Whisk together the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar. Stir everything together to create the vibrant herb dressing for your zucchini chickpea burrata salad.
  4. Step 4: Assemble the salad. Arrange the grilled zucchini slices and the crispy chickpeas artfully on a large serving platter. Drizzle the fresh herb dressing evenly over the zucchini and chickpeas.
  5. Step 5: Add the burrata. Gently place the whole ball of burrata cheese right in the center of the salad. Drizzle generously with chili oil and season with a little more salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed while the components are still warm, allowing the creamy burrata to gently melt into the flavorful zucchini and chickpeas when you cut into it.

Grilling the Zucchini

Toss your zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re tender and show those beautiful, smoky char marks. This quick grilling is crucial for flavor.

Crisping the Chickpeas

In a skillet, heat olive oil and add the chickpeas with smoked paprika and garlic. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they achieve a satisfying crispness. This adds wonderful texture!

Making the Herb Dressing

Combine fresh parsley, mint, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar in a small bowl. This simple mix creates a bright and zesty zucchini chickpea salad dressing that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Assembling Your Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Arrange the grilled zucchini and crispy chickpeas on a platter. Drizzle with the herb dressing, then place the creamy burrata in the center. Finish with a flourish of chili oil and a final seasoning. This is the moment your burrata chickpea zucchini dish truly comes to life!

Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Follow these insider tips to ensure your Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a big difference!

  • Don’t skip the char on the zucchini; those grill marks add so much flavor.
  • Ensure your chickpeas are truly dry before crisping them for maximum crunch.
  • Use the freshest herbs possible for the dressing – it really elevates the dish.
  • Serve immediately after assembly for the best contrast of warm ingredients and cool, creamy burrata.

What’s the secret to perfect Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad?

The real magic happens with contrasting textures and temperatures. Getting those zucchini slices nicely charred and making sure the chickpeas are wonderfully crispy before assembling is key to the best zucchini chickpea burrata salad. The creamy burrata melting into the warm elements ties it all together.

Can I make Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most components ahead of time! Grill the zucchini, crisp the chickpeas, and make the dressing up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just assemble everything and add the burrata and chili oil right before serving your zucchini chickpea burrata salad.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad?

The most common pitfall is soggy chickpeas! Make sure they are thoroughly dried after rinsing and cook them until they’re genuinely crisp. Also, don’t overcook the zucchini on the grill; you want them tender but not mushy. These small adjustments prevent common issues with your burrata chickpea zucchini dish.

Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

This versatile Mediterranean zucchini chickpea burrata salad is fantastic on its own, but it also shines when paired with other dishes. It makes a stunning light lunch or a vibrant side dish that will impress your guests. For a more substantial meal, I love serving it alongside some warm, crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices and that amazing burrata cream. You could also add grilled chicken or fish to make it a complete dinner. This burrata chickpea zucchini dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight treat.

Nutrition Facts for Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious dish, perfect for a healthy meal.

  • Calories: 310
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Protein: 15 g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the exact size of the burrata or the specific olive oil you use for your zucchini chickpea burrata salad.

How to Store and Reheat Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Leftovers of this delightful Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad are a treat! Once cooled, store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Unfortunately, this particular dish doesn’t freeze particularly well, especially the burrata cheese and grilled zucchini, so I’d focus on enjoying it within a few days. When you’re ready to enjoy your stored zucchini chickpea burrata salad, you can serve it chilled or gently warm it. If you prefer it warm, you can quickly reheat the zucchini and chickpeas in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Add the burrata and dressing just before serving to maintain their best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

What is zucchini chickpea burrata salad?

A zucchini chickpea burrata salad is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines grilled zucchini, crispy seasoned chickpeas, and creamy burrata cheese. It’s typically dressed with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette, offering a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. It’s a fantastic option for a light lunch or side dish.

Can I make zucchini chickpea burrata salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the grilled zucchini, crispy chickpeas, and the herb dressing up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the burrata cheese and chili oil just before serving to ensure the burrata stays perfectly creamy and the chickpeas remain crisp. This makes assembling your zucchini chickpea burrata salad quick when you’re ready to eat.

What are the best additions to a Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad?

While the base recipe is amazing, you can certainly enhance your zucchini chickpea burrata salad. Consider adding cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, some Kalamata olives for a briny kick, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra saltiness. Toasted pine nuts also add a lovely crunch. This flexibility is why it’s such a popular zucchini chickpea burrata salad recipe.

How do I make the burrata creamy and not tough?

Burrata is naturally creamy! The key is to serve it at room temperature and add it at the very end. Avoid cooking the burrata itself; it’s meant to be a cool, luscious contrast to the warm components of the salad. When you cut into it, its creamy interior will ooze out, making your zucchini chickpea burrata salad extra decadent.

Variations of Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad You Can Try

While this Mediterranean zucchini chickpea burrata salad is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists! It’s amazing how a few small changes can create a whole new dish. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired.

  • Dairy-Free Option: For a taste that’s similar but without the dairy, you can try a vegan zucchini chickpea burrata salad by substituting the burrata with a generous dollop of creamy cashew or tahini dressing and perhaps some avocado slices.
  • Grilled Veggie Upgrade: Instead of just zucchini, try grilling other vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, or even corn. This adds even more depth of flavor to your burrata chickpea zucchini dish.
  • Mozzarella Twist: If you can’t find burrata or want a slightly different texture, fresh mozzarella balls (like bocconcini) make a lovely substitute in a zucchini chickpea salad with mozzarella.
  • Roasted Chickpea Crunch: Prefer oven-roasting? Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, and garlic, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy. This is a great alternative way to make your zucchini chickpea burrata salad.

Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad: 6-Minute Crispy Chickpeas - Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad - main visual representation

For more information on the benefits of chickpeas, you can check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about the versatility of zucchini in cooking, consider this guide from the Epicurious website.

Discover more about the delightful world of burrata cheese and its culinary uses by visiting Food & Wine.

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Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad

Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad: 6-Minute Crispy Chickpeas


  • Author: Fatima Garcia
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Mediterranean-inspired Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad features char-grilled zucchini slices and crispy, paprika-spiced chickpeas. A creamy ball of burrata sits at the center, melting into the warm ingredients. A bright herb dressing with parsley, mint, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar adds freshness, while chili oil provides a pleasant heat. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, offering a beautiful balance of creamy, crispy, fresh, and spicy flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ball burrata cheese
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Chili oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Toss zucchini with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until tender with light char marks. Set aside.
  2. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chickpeas, smoked paprika, chopped garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas become crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, combine chopped parsley, mint, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
  4. Arrange grilled zucchini and crispy chickpeas on a large serving plate. Drizzle the herb dressing evenly over the vegetables.
  5. Place the ball of burrata in the center of the arrangement. Drizzle generously with chili oil and season with additional salt and freshly ground pepper.
  6. Serve immediately while components are still warm, allowing the creamy burrata to gently melt into the salad when cut open.

Notes

  • This Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad can be served warm or at room temperature.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for extra color and nutrition in your Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad.
  • The salad can be made ahead of time, just add the burrata and chili oil right before serving your Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad.
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: Grilling and Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx.)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: N/A
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad, Mediterranean Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad, Easy Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad, Healthy Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad, Fresh Zucchini Chickpea Burrata Salad, Burrata Salad with Zucchini and Chickpeas, Chickpea and Zucchini Burrata Bowl, Zucchini Chickpea Salad Dressing

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