Plot to Plate No.1: Courgette and Mint Salad Recipe
As any vegetable gardener will know, this time of year often brings an abundant harvest, and if you grow courgettes, you're likely facing a delightful dilemma: what to do with the glut of these versatile vegetables. While Katie and I thoroughly enjoy our courgettes simply pan-fried in butter or transformed into a comforting courgette and cumin soup that we freeze for the winter months, there are countless other ways to celebrate the humble courgette.
Courgettes, also known as zucchinis, are incredibly versatile and can be the star of numerous dishes, whether you're looking for a quick side or an impressive addition to a meal. They can be grilled, baked, stuffed, or even spiralized into noodles. The possibilities are endless, and today, I want to share one of my favourite recipes that is perfect for this time of year: Courgette and Mint Salad.
This recipe is not only delicious but also wonderfully convenient. It's one of those gems that you can prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for a BBQ or a quick weekday meal. The combination of chargrilled courgettes with fresh mint, drizzled in a tangy vinaigrette, is simply divine.
Courgette and Mint Salad
Ingredients for 2 people:
2 or 3 medium courgettes, cut into strips lengthwise approximately 4 mm thick
Rapeseed oil or another vegetable oil
20 ml of extra virgin olive oil
20 ml white wine vinegar
A handful of fresh mint, chopped
Salt
Instructions:
Lay the courgette strips on a plate lined with kitchen paper and sprinkle with salt. Leave them for 10 to 15 minutes until some of the liquid has been drawn out. Then, pat them dry with more kitchen paper.
I prefer using a cast iron griddle pan for this recipe, but an ordinary frying pan will suffice. Lightly oil the courgette strips and chargrill them in batches.
As the courgette strips are cooked, place them in a bowl.
Once all the strips are chargrilled, add the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, and chopped mint. Toss everything together.
Allow the salad to cool before placing it in the fridge until needed.
This simple yet delightful Courgette and Mint Salad is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The process of salting the courgettes beforehand ensures they retain a lovely texture, while the chargrilling adds a deliciously smoky flavour. The mint and vinaigrette provide a fresh and tangy contrast that elevates the dish.
Courgettes have many benefits beyond their culinary versatility. They are low in calories but high in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Incorporating them into your diet can support digestion, boost your immune system, and contribute to overall health. This makes them an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals and those looking to make the most of their garden harvest.
In addition to this salad, there are numerous other ways to enjoy courgettes. For a hearty main course, consider stuffing them with a mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and cheese, then baking until golden and bubbly. Or, for a lighter option, try spiralizing courgettes into noodles and tossing them with pesto or marinara sauce. Courgette fritters, seasoned with herbs and spices and fried to crispy perfection, make for a delicious appetizer or snack.
By exploring different recipes and cooking methods, you can keep your meals exciting and nutritious throughout the courgette season. This Courgette and Mint Salad is just one example of how versatile and enjoyable courgettes can be. So next time you find yourself with a surplus, remember there are countless delicious ways to make the most of this wonderful vegetable.
Enjoy your courgette harvest and happy cooking!
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