This colorful marinated vegetable salad is packed with fresh veggies and herbs. It’s a crunchy delight that’s perfect for warm days or barbecues!
Who knew veggies could taste so good? I love how the marinated mix gets better as it sits. It’s like a tasty hug in a bowl! 🥗 I often make it ahead for a fuss-free meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This adds a mild flavor and crisp texture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or even cucumbers for a refreshing change.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers bring sweetness and color. Green peppers are a bit more bitter, but you can use them if you like that flavor. Any color works here, so feel free to mix.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor and crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using green onions or shallots. They provide a lovely sweetness without being overpowering.
Olive Oil: This gives a rich base for the marinade. If you want a lighter alternative, you could go for avocado oil. It also has a nice flavor!
Herbs: Fresh basil is wonderful, but if you can’t find it, try fresh parsley or cilantro for a different twist. Dried herbs are great too if fresh ones are hard to come by.
How Do I Marinate Vegetables Properly?
Marinating is all about flavor infusion, and it’s really straightforward! Start by preparing your vegetables; slicing or chopping them helps them absorb the marinade better. Always use a non-reactive bowl, like glass or plastic, to prevent any reactions with the vinegar.
- Combine all your veggies in the bowl, ensuring they are cut uniformly.
- In another bowl, whisk your marinade ingredients together until well blended.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat each piece well, ensuring it’s all mixed.
- Cover and refrigerate. The longer you marinate, the better the flavors meld—aim for at least 1 hour, but 4-6 hours is ideal if you can manage it!
- Before serving, give it another quick toss to redistribute the flavors.
Enjoy the refreshing crunch and bright flavors of your homemade salad! It’s a perfect side for barbecues or a light lunch.
Marinated Vegetable Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil or a few tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or other fresh herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 1 hour to marinate in the refrigerator. If you can wait longer (up to 4-6 hours), the flavors will develop even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by slicing the zucchini into rounds and chopping the red and yellow bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl. This colorful mix will bring vibrancy to your salad!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried or fresh basil. Add salt and pepper to taste. This marinade is where all the magic happens!
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the marinade over the vegetable mix in the large bowl. Using a spatula or spoon, gently toss everything together until the veggies are well coated with the delicious marinade.
4. Chill and Meld the Flavors:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting it sit longer (up to 4-6 hours) will enhance the flavors even more.
5. Final Touches Before Serving:
Once you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a good toss again to redistribute the marinade. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or any other fresh herbs you love.
6. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve this vibrant marinated vegetable salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side for any meal. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a light lunch on its own!
This salad is not only tasty but also a feast for the eyes with its bright colors and fresh herbs. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
img src=”https://tastyhomejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/marinated-vegetable-salad-recipe-with-fresh-herbs.webp” alt=””>
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini or bell peppers for other veggies like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or cucumbers. Just keep in mind that firmer vegetables may need a little longer to marinate for best flavor absorption.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover marinated vegetable salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the vegetables may become a bit softer over time.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan, as it doesn’t contain any animal products. Enjoy it as a fresh and healthy option for your plant-based meals!
What Should I Serve This Salad With?
This salad makes a great side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread. It also works well as a light lunch on its own or paired with hummus or quinoa for added protein.