Are you ready to enjoy a delicious and colorful dish? Let me introduce you to Escalivada, a delightful grilled vegetable salad that hails from the sunny regions of Spain, particularly Catalonia. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it has deep cultural roots that reflect the Mediterranean lifestyle filled with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Traditionally, it’s made with a mix of grilled vegetables, and it’s usually served warm or at room temperature.
Escalivada is popular because it’s healthy, tasty, and easy to make. Whether you’re having a picnic, a barbecue, or simply a family dinner, this salad is perfect for any occasion. The smoky flavor from the grilled vegetables combined with a drizzle of olive oil creates a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Red bell pepper | 2 large |
| Eggplant | 1 medium |
| Zucchini | 1 medium |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Tomato | 2 large |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Basil or parsley (for garnish) | optional |
Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what you like or have on hand. For instance, you could use asparagus instead of zucchini or add mushrooms for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Escalivada is simple and fun! Follow these easy steps:
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Slice the eggplant, zucchini, and onion into thick rounds.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the vegetables on the grill. Cook the bell peppers and eggplant for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Add Zucchini and Onion: After the red bell peppers and eggplant are done, add the zucchini and onion to the grill. Grill these for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft.
- Grill the Tomatoes: Finally, place the tomatoes on the grill for about 3-5 minutes until they are slightly charred.
- Season: Once all the vegetables are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. Cut everything into bite-sized pieces, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: If you’re using fresh basil or parsley, sprinkle it on top before serving. Enjoy your Escalivada warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value of Escalivada per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 150 | 8% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Fats | 11g | 17% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 40mg | 44% |
Tips and Tricks
– To enhance the flavor even more, try marinating the vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour before grilling.
– Make sure not to overcrowd the grill. Give each vegetable space to get that perfect char!
– If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for around 30 minutes.
– Don’t skip the garnishing! Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and make the dish look even prettier.
FAQs
What is Escalivada?
Escalivada is a traditional Spanish grilled vegetable salad made with various roasted veggies, mainly from the Catalonia region.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Using fresh vegetables is best, but if you only have frozen ones, that can also work! Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before grilling.
How long can I store Escalivada?
You can store Escalivada in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I add other vegetables to Escalivada?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or even carrots.
Is Escalivada vegan?
Yes, Escalivada is entirely vegan as it consists only of vegetables and olive oil!
What do I serve with Escalivada?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a light lunch with crusty bread.
Can I make Escalivada ahead of time?
Yes! It can be made ahead and served chilled or brought to room temperature for the best taste.
What are some variations of Escalivada?
You can try adding different spices or dressings, like balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra twist!
Why is it called Escalivada?
The name comes from the Catalan word “escalivar,” which means to cook over hot coals, reflecting the traditional grilling method.
How can I make it spicier?
For spice lovers, adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give Escalivada a nice kick!
Enjoy making this vibrant dish, and remember to share it with friends and family for a truly delightful experience!
