Recipe: Simply Elegant Grilled Squash Salad

This one is as simple as it is tasty. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, and a few fresh herbs and some good quality oil and vinegar are all you need to create a gourmet salad that's perfect for summer. Top it off with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, and you've got a dish that will please the most sophisticated of palates with ease - and it's a great way to use up all that extra summer squash!

Simply Elegant Grilled Squash Salad
(Serves 4-6.)

Ingredients:

4 medium zucchini, ends cut off, large seeds scooped out, halved lengthwise
4 medium yellow summer squash, trimmed, halved lengthwise
5 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

Directions:

• Turn grill on or get charcoal set to medium heat.
• Arrange zucchini and yellow squash on a big platter, cut side up, and drizzle with 3 tablespoons oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper and rub to coat veggies evenly.
• When grill is ready, put zucchini and yellow squash on cut side down; cook for 5 minutes or until grill marks are nice, then flip and grill for about 5 minutes more or until brown and tender.
• Remove and allow to cool in order to handle, then cut into strips crossways, then into rough chopped bite-sized pieces.
• Put pieces in a large serving bowl and add the basil, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of remaining olive oil;  toss gently until coated nicely.
• Taste and add salt and pepper if desired.  Serve immediately.