Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad just screams, “SUMMER!” Fresh tomatoes and basil, juicy mozzarella, and tender charred zucchini come together for a healthy meal that feels decadent. Add on the homemade vinaigrette, and your taste buds will be thrilled!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Easy – The only cooking required is grilling the zucchini. You can do this on an outdoor grill, over a campfire, under the broiler, or on the stove. This is perfect for beginners because you can use the method you’re most comfortable with, and it’s one simple step!
• Healthy – This recipe focuses on making the most from simple, healthy ingredients! It works for gluten-free, low-carb, and keto diet, too. You get your healthy fats from the cheese and oil, fiber from zucchini, and loads of antioxidants in the tomatoes!
• Quick – This recipe is ready to go within 30 minutes. Most of the time you’re just waiting for the zucchini to cool! You could easily grill the zucchini a few hours ahead of time if you want to assemble ahead of time for a party or gathering.

Grilled Zucchini Salad Ingredients

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need for this zucchini recipe. For exact measurements, keep scrolling down to the printable recipe card near the bottom.

• Zucchini – You want fresh, firm zucchini that has just a tiny bit of give when you squeeze it. Choose zucchini of similar sizes so that they all cook at about the same rate.
• Tomatoes & Cherry Tomatoes – This is perfect for any garden tomatoes you have coming in! You can use 1 large heirloom tomato, 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, or 2-3 Kumato or Roma tomatoes if you prefer. The cherry tomatoes add a different texture and add a great color to the salad.
• Mozzarella – You want the fresh, juicy mozzarella, not the low-moisture version. These usually come in balls or shaped like logs, and you simply slice them into thin, delicious pieces.
• Basil leaves – These add tons of flavor, and I highly recommend not leaving these out! If you’re out of fresh leaves, at least toss 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil to add a touch of flavor. The fresh leaves really knock this salad out of the park, though!
• Olive oil, Red wine vinegar, Sugar-free maple syrup, Garlic, Red pepper flakes, Salt, Pepper – This comes together to create a well-balanced vinaigrette that will bring out the best in the tomatoes and zucchini! The little sweetness added by the maple syrup is perfect with the contrasting red pepper flakes. You could replace the syrup with a few drops of liquid monk fruit if you prefer.

How to Make a Grilled Salad

This simple healthy recipe is so easy and great for beginners or lazy days! Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this low-carb salad.

Slice & dry zucchini

First you want to wash, slice, and dry your zucchini. Press them between two layers of paper towels to absorb as much excess moisture as you can. Doing this helps get a great char on the outside of the zucchini without it cooking through steam as much.

Cook & season zucchini

Heat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet to medium-high heat and brush with oil. Place the zucchini on but do not overcrowd the pan. If necessary, you may need to cook zucchini in batches. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until nicely charred. Remove and set onto a plate to cool.

As the zucchini cools, sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and toss with your hands. We didn’t want to add the salt before cooking because it would have drawn out moisture and could have prevented us from getting a perfect charred texture.

Make vinaigrette

While the zucchini is cooling, mix together your vinaigrette ingredients. This doesn’t require any heat, just some vigorous whisking or shaking. Pour all ingredients into a jar and shake to emulsify, or place them in a bowl and whisk until well combined.

Assemble salad

Now that your zucchini has cooled to room temperature, you can start mixing it with the cherry tomatoes and sliced tomatoes in a platter. Add in the torn mozzarella, making sure everyone could get a little bit of everything in every bite. Finally, spoon over the vinaigrette and torn basil leaves. It’s best to start with just 1/2 the dressing, then taste and add to your preference.

Serve

This recipe is delicious served on its own for a vegetarian summer meal that makes the most out of your garden! Additional fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives would also be fantastic.

What to serve with Grilled Zucchini Salad

If serving this zucchini salad as your meal, a hearty appetizer like Grilled Portobello Mushrooms or Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli would be great. If this salad is your appetizer or side, consider serving Steak and Shrimp Skillet and some Keto Garlic Bread Chaffles. When you want to add some protein and crunch, toss in some chopped Pecan Crusted Chicken! To add a delicious keto cocktail to your party, consider an herby option like Basil Whiskey Sour, Keto Mint Julep, or a Rosemary Gin Fizz.

How to Store Zucchini Salad

This salad is best served fresh. However, leftovers can be enjoyed within 1-2 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’d like to make this ahead of time or meal prep it for lunches, simply leave the components separate until ready to serve–Keep the zucchini and basil in one container (unsalted), the tomatoes in another, and the vinaigrette in a third container.

If you love this zucchini salad, you’ll love these summer recipes:

• Grilled Zucchini Mozzarella Wraps – These are the perfect pool-side appetizer on a hot day! Melty mozzarella surrounded by tender grilled zucchini feels like a treat but is actually pretty healthy.
• The BEST Cucumber Salad – If you love fresh flavors in a tasty dressing with some cheese but don’t want to cook, this is the perfect recipe for you! Great for meal prepping and awesome for lunches.
• Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad – This meal has it all; tangy dressing, tender chicken, crispy lettuce, and delicious parmesan! It’s best enjoyed in the summer with amazing fresh produce.
• Smoked Queso – This easy dip recipe does the work on its own in the grill; barely any work or cleanup necessary! This low-carb dip is great with veggies, keto chips, or drizzled on top of meat.
• Air Fryer Squash – You’ll love how easy, healthy, and full of flavor this side dish is. It’s ready quickly, goes with just about any dinner, and is super inexpensive during the summer months!

Zucchini Salad FAQs

Yield: 4

Grilled Zucchini Salad

Print

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette will be your repeat meal of the summer! This healthy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, loaded with fresh mozzarella and tender veggies, and has fewer than 5 net carbs.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium zucchini)
• 6 ounces tomato of choice (can be 2 medium vine-ripe tomatoes, 1 large Heirloom Tomato, or 2-3 Kumato tomatoes) sliced into thin rounds
• 1⁄2 pint (8 ounces) colorful cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1⁄2 tsp fine salt
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds and torn in half
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves, torn right before serving

For the Vinaigrette:

• 1⁄3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar-free maple syrup
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

1. Trim ends off of each zucchini. Slice each zucchini into 1⁄2” thick circles on a bias. Line a baking sheet with a paper towel and place the zucchini on it. Lightly press a paper towel on top of the zucchini too to remove excess moisture.
2. Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush with oil. Grill zucchini in batches, as not to overcrowd the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until charred. Once cooked, set onto a plate to cool.
3. Sprinkle the top of the cooked zucchini pieces with 1⁄4 teaspoon salt and toss with your hands.
4. Make the dressing by combining all the ingredients in a container or bowl and whisking together, or cover the container and shake well until emulsified.
5. Arrange the tomatoes & room-temperature grilled zucchini on a serving dish along with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices. Drizzle with vinaigrette (may not use all of it), sprinkle with torn basil, and sprinkle with 1⁄4 tsp salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Notes

• Start with using 1⁄2 of the dressing, then taste and see if you need more. You’ll likely end up using about 3⁄4 of it, but everyone's preferences are different.
• I like to arrange this salad in a platter style, but one can also mix everything together in a bowl. If mixing in a bowl, you may consider chopping everything a bit smaller.
• I used this grill pan, but any grill pan (of course real outdoor grill), cast iron skillet or even fry pan will work to charr the zucchini.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

About 3/4 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 249Total Fat: 21gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 829mgCarbohydrates: 6.3gNet Carbohydrates: 4.7gFiber: 1.6gSugar: 4.3gProtein: 10g

The post Grilled Zucchini Salad appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Keto Lunch Skewers

These Keto Lunch Skewers are the perfect no-cook lunch! I’ve made two different varieties here- turkey and pepperoni! Your favorite deli turkey is combined with cubed cheese and pickle to make a sandwich on the go. The pizza skewer features pepperoni, balled mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, so you can enjoy the flavors of pizza but without the carbs!

Keto Lunch Skewers are perfect for long car rides, picnics, barbecues, get-togethers, parties, potlucks- you name it! Whenever these appear on a table, they are gone fast. These recipes are easy, kid-friendly and are ready in a flash. You don’t even need to microwave them- just pack them in your bag and enjoy!

These keto meat skewers are super fun to assemble as a family- have your kids set on their favorite ingredients and make them together and see them get creative! You can easily customize these recipes to fit everyone’s personal preferences. These are great for making ahead for busy school mornings- throw them into a lunch box and run out the door!

These don’t need to be warmed up, so they’re perfect for those days when you only have a couple of minutes to eat. These Lunch Skewers are also packed with protein, so you’ll stay full for the rest of your busy day!

Ingredients in this easy keto lunch

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Keto Skewers. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

For the Turkey Skewer:

• Deli turkey
• Cubed cheese
• Sliced pickles

For the Pepperoni Skewer:

• Large pepperoni
• Fresh mozzarella balls
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves

How do I make these meat skewers?

Each of these keto lunches can be made with just a few simple steps!

To assemble the Turkey Skewers:

1. Slice your turkey into 4 pieces and fold each into a square.
2. Stack your turkey, cheddar and pickle and secure with a toothpick.

To assemble the Pizza Skewers:

1. Half your mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes.
2. Take a half of each and add a basil leaf in between them.
3. Add your basil, tomato and mozzarella to the middle of your pepperoni and secure with a toothpick.

Is this no cook lunch good for keto meal prep?

Yes, these are great for meal prepping! Just make in advance and keep in the fridge. These Keto Skewers will stay fresh for up to five days, so you can easily make them over the weekend and separate into different portions for the week. One of the greatest things about these lunch ideas is that you don’t need to warm them up- just keep cold and enjoy whenever you like!

How many carbs are in this recipe?

The exact nutritional breakdown is listed below in the recipe card. You can enjoy all 8 of these skewers for less than 5 net carbs. For four Turkey Skewer it is just 2.1 net carbs,  and four of the Pizza Skewers for 2.6 net carbs. These are perfect for a keto diet and are full of protein to help keep you going throughout your day!

More easy keto lunch ideas

• Crispy Pizza Tortilla
• Turkey Wrap
• Shrimp con Queso
• Egg Roll in a Bowl

Yield: 8 skewers (1-2 servings)

Keto Lunch Skewers

Print

These easy Keto Lunch Skewers are perfect for a no-cook lunch! Try these two flavors for simple skewers great for snacks and appetizers!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

Turkey Skewer

• 1 slice deli turkey
• 4 cheese cubes
• 4 pickle slices

Pizza Skewer

• 4 large pepperoni slices
• 2 fresh mozzarella balls (1/3 ounce each)
• 2 cherry tomatoes
• 4 large or 8 small basil leaves

Instructions

Turkey Skewers (2.1 net carbs for all)

1. Cut your slice of turkey into 4 even pieces. Fold each piece up to a square about the size of a cherry tomato.
2. Make a stack with turkey, cheddar, and a pickle. Secure with a toothpick.

Pizza Skewers (2.6 net carbs for all)

1. Cut your mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes in half so you have 4 halves of each.
2. Take one half of the mozzarella ball and one part of a cherry tomato -- Between the two, place 2 small basil leaves (or 1 large).
3. Finally, put your tomato, basil, and mozzarella in the middle of your large pepperoni, bend the slice so it's like a taco shell around the tomato and mozzarella, then secure with a toothpick.

Notes

• Nutrition value for 4 Pizza Skewers:  Calories: 159, Total Fat: 12 grams Cholesterol: 34 milligrams Sodium: 375 milligrams Carbohydrates: 3.5 grams Fiber: 0.9 grams Sugar: 2.1 grams Protein: 9.3 grams Net Carbs: 2.6 grams
• Nutrition value for 1 Turkey Skewer is below.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

4 Turkey Skewers
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 149Total Fat: 9.8gCholesterol: 40.4mgSodium: 684mgCarbohydrates: 2.6gNet Carbohydrates: 2.1gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 1.5gProtein: 12.8g

The post Keto Lunch Skewers appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Turkey Wrap

This Turkey Wrap features your favorite deli sliced turkey, crispy bacon, crunchy lettuce, fresh tomato, tender avocado and creamy Ranch dressing, all wrapped in a delicious cheese wrap! This kid friendly recipe is sure to please everyone in your house. There’s very little prep for this meal and it only takes 5 minutes to bring together!

This Turkey Wrap is a great recipe for a quick lunch, an after school snack or for a grab-and-go meal! The savory bacon really brings out the flavor of the turkey, while the lettuce provides the perfect crunch! And who doesn’t love Ranch and cheese? You really can’t ask for an easier, more satisfying meal!

One of my favorite things about this Turkey Wrap is that it’s a great way to eat a filling, protein packed meal without going over my carbs. With only 3 net carbs in this entire wrap, this is an ideal keto meal. It’s also a great way to use up any leftovers!

Ingredients in Turkey Cheese Wraps

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Turkey Wraps. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

• Cheese wrap and Ranch dressing
• Deli turkey, cooked bacon
• Lettuce, tomato and avocado

How do I make this low carb wrap?

This keto lunch recipe comes together in only 3 simple steps!

1. Lay out the cheese wrap on parchment or wax paper.
2. Add the lettuce, turkey, bacon, tomato, avocado, ranch and salt or pepper (if desired) in the middle of the wrap.
3. Wrap tightly, using the paper to assist you to make sure your wrap is tight. And enjoy!

Where can I buy cheese wraps?

You can find these Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese wraps online, but they are also becoming easier to find in the grocery store.

How long will this Turkey Wrap stay fresh?

This wrap will stay fresh for 24 hours. Since the outer layer of the wrap is cheese, I prefer to enjoy within a day of preparing.

Tips for the best cheese wraps

• I highly recommend using the wax or parchment paper to help you to wrap up the cheese tortilla. It also helps with storing the wrap!
• If preparing ahead of time, you can put a toothpick through the wrap once you’ve assembled it. This will help it to stay together.
• These wraps will stay fresh in the fridge for up to one day, but after 24 hours the cheese wrap will become slightly soggy.

 What should I serve with Turkey Wraps?

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a fun and delicious side dish option! Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli or Air Fryer Green Beans are both quick and easy keto side dishes. If you prefer something a little more savory, try these Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms or Keto Broccoli Cheddar Bites!

More keto lunch recipes

• Keto Chicken Salad
• Asian Salmon (keto + low carb)
• Easy Air Fryer Chicken
• Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Boats (keto + low carb)

Yield: 1 wrap

Turkey Wrap

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This Turkey Wrap is perfect for an easy lunch or for a super quick dinner! This cheese wrap is loaded with turkey, bacon, avocado and Ranch dressing, all for only 3 net carbs!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cheese wrap
• 2 leaves of lettuce
• 3 slices of turkey
• 2 slices of bacon, cooked
• 2 small tomato slices
• 2 slices avocado
• 1 tablespoon Ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Lay the cheese wrap on a 12x12 peice of parchment paper or wax paper.
2. Layer the lettuce, turkey, bacon, tomato, avocado, ranch, salt and pepper down the center of the wrap.
3. Wrap tightly, using the paper to help you secure the wrap.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1 wrap
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 472Total Fat: 46gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 1200mgCarbohydrates: 5.8gNet Carbohydrates: 3gFiber: 2.8gSugar: 1.2gProtein: 33g

The post Turkey Wrap (keto + low carb) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Turkey Lettuce Wrap

This Turkey Lettuce Wrap features cajun turkey that is combined with smoky provolone, crispy red onion, fresh tomato and chipotle mayonnaise, all wrapped in crunchy iceberg lettuce! Everyone in your family will love this easy low carb meal. This kid friendly recipe is great for school lunches or an after school snack! These lettuce wraps are also fantastic for keto meal prepping.

This recipe comes together so quickly and easily! All you’ll need to do is slice up a tomato and a little bit of onion and layer your ingredients. It really doesn’t get much easier than that! While the ingredients to this wrap are simple, the flavors of the turkey, cheese and vegetables compliment each other very well. You’ll find yourself making this keto recipe again and again!

Ingredients in Turkey Wrap

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Cajun Turkey Wraps. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

• Cajun turkey, provolone cheese
• Iceberg lettuce, tomato and red onion
• Optional: chipotle mayonnaise, salt and pepper

How do I make this keto lunch?

This keto meal prep recipe comes together in only three simple steps!

1. Lay out parchment or wax paper and add your lettuce.
2. Layer your cheese, mayonnaise, turkey, onion, tomato, salt and pepper.
3. Roll tightly and enjoy! 

Tips for the best Turkey Lettuce Wraps

• Customize! Use any type of turkey in this recipe- smoked, roasted, whatever you like! If you prefer another type of lunch meat, that is also fine!
• Use your favorite condiments. I added a spicy mayonnaise, but if you could also use regular mayo, mustard or hot sauce.
• Use the wax or parchment paper. This will help you to wrap up your sandwich and keep it tight. Don’t skip this step!
• Make sure to use the cheese as your first layer. This keeps the sauce and veggies inside the wrap.

Is lettuce keto?

Yes, lettuce is a great option for a keto diet! I love using lettuce in these wraps because it gives a delicious crunch while keeping the carb count low! If you’re looking for easy swaps in your diet to lower your carbs, switching out bread for lettuce in a sandwich is a great start. You can use iceberg, romaine or butter lettuce in this recipe. If you like collard greens, check out these Thai Chicken Collard Green Wraps!

Is this wrap good for keto meal prep?

This recipe is perfect for keto meal prep! I like to make my wraps on a Sunday and then keep them in the paper in the fridge. That way I can just grab-and-go in the morning! You can also easily prep these wraps in advance for school lunches.

How long are Turkey Wraps fresh?

These keto wraps will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.

What should I serve with this easy keto recipe?

Some of my favorite easy side dishes are these Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts or Air Fryer Green Beans. Sauteed Zucchini or Roasted Cabbage would also be delicious with this wrap. For dessert, try Keto Zucchini Bread or Keto Cakemix Cookies!

More keto lunch recipes

• Egg Roll in a Bowl
• Air Fryer Chicken
• Shrimp Scampi
• Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Boats

More easy wrap recipes

• Keto Club Lettuce Wrap
• Keto BLT Lettuce Wraps
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Lettuce Wrap

Yield: 1

Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Print

Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a great healthy lunch option! Ready in only a couple of minutes, this keto recipe is about 4 net carbs!

Prep Time 2 minutes

Total Time 2 minutes

Ingredients

• 2-3 large lettuce leaves
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 ounces cajun deli turkey
• 1/8 cup very thinly sliced red onion
• 2-3 slices tomato
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chipotle mayonnaise

Instructions

1. Tear a 12 inch square of parchement paper to use as your base. Place the lettuce leaves in the center of the paper so they slightly overlap creating a solid barrier.
2. Add the two slices of cheese, spread the chipotle mayo over the cheese if using, top with turkey, onion, tomato slices and add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Use the paper to help you roll it very tightly like a burrito.
   If meal prepping tape the parchment paper to keep it secure and store chilled until ready to eat.

Notes

If you don't love spice switch the chipotle mayonnaise for regular or herbed mayo.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1 wrap
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 281Total Fat: 16gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 909mgCarbohydrates: 6.1gNet Carbohydrates: 4.2gFiber: 1.9gSugar: 2.6gProtein: 1.9g

The post Turkey Lettuce Wraps appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.