| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 325 | 15g | 3g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 20g | 10g | 9g | 0.8g |
Why I Love Norwegian Grilled Vegetable Salad with Balsamic
One thing I’ve come to appreciate deeply is the Norwegian Grilled Vegetable Salad with Balsamic. This sumptuous dish, reminiscent of the varied scenery of Norway, carries an exquisite contrast of flavours and textures that inspires every bite. Though my culinary journey is grounded in hearty mountain fare, this light yet satisfying salad is a remarkable testament to the delightful surprises and pleasures that accompany culinary exploration.
A Salad Steeped in Scandinavian Splendor
In the same way that one might gaze upon the majestic fjords of Norway for inspiration, so this salad draws its appeal from the breathtaking landscapes that dot the Scandinavian country. It whispers sagas of echoing valleys and towering mountains, of icy fjords and the dramatic Aurora Borealis, mirroring the diversity and depth of Norwegian cuisine. An acclaimed chef whose creative approach often leads me to innovate is Gordon Ramsay. Even though we didn’t collaborate on this recipe, his influence pervades my kitchen often.
Grilled Vegetables: An Ode to Simplicity
There’s a wild, raw element to this salad that reminds me of my home in the Rocky Mountains, a kinship that comes from relying on simple, fresh ingredients to create a meal that’s full of flavor. Each vegetable is grilled to crisp perfection, tossed with a sweet, tangy balsamic and honey dressing and finished with a touch of garlic, dried basil, and optional goat cheese for an added kick. This simulates an interplay between the hearty simplicity which defines game meats, trout dishes and other rugged mountain fare, and the refinement that comes with a well-balanced, well-seasoned dish.
Perfect Pairings
This exquisite Grilled Vegetable Salad with Balsamic is truly versatile. Such versatility allows it to be paired well with a wide range of dishes. Consider a grilled salmon or perhaps a slow-cooked venison stew, it complements them perfectly, providing a colourful contrast. This wholesome salad is also a great add-on to casual backyard barbecues, serving as a healthy counterpoint to rich, meaty favorites.
So there you have it – a salad that deliciously combines simplicity, natural flavours, and that refreshing Scandinavian touch. A dish that truly takes you on a culinary journey from the peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the stunning fjords of Norway.
What You’ll Need
- 2 large zucchini
- 2 large yellow squash
- 2 red bell peppers, seeded and halved
- 2 green bell peppers, seeded and halved
- 1 eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 6 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your grill on high heat. While it’s heating up, brush your zucchini, yellow squash, red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and eggplant slices liberally with olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Two
Place all the vegetables on the grill and cook each side for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re slightly charred and tender. Once done, remove them from the grill and cut them into bite sized pieces. Transfer the grilled veggies to a large bowl.
Step Three
While the vegetables are grilling, prepare the balsamic reduction. Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reduces by half. The balsamic reduction should be thick and syrupy.
Step Four
Once the balsamic reduction is done, remove from the heat. Add in the honey, crushed garlic, and dried basil. Stir well to combine all of the ingredients. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Step Five
Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the grilled veggies, tossing to ensure everything is coated nicely. If you’re using goat cheese, sprinkle it on top. Your Grilled Vegetable Salad with Balsamic dressing is now ready to serve. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful salad!
