If you’re craving something fresh yet satisfying that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, this Grilled Squash, Red Pepper, and Feta Sandwich Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender grilled vegetables with creamy feta and a zesty garlic-lemon mayo, all nestled between crispy focaccia slices. Every bite delivers a delightful balance of smoky char, tangy cheese, and a bit of crunchy sweetness, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this sandwich lies in its simplicity — just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that each bring a special element to the table. From the juicy, char-grilled vegetables to the creamy, tangy feta and the bright, herbaceous mayo, every component is essential.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Acts as a rich, creamy base that carries the lemon and garlic flavors beautifully.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant, savory undertone that wakes up the palate.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings a fresh burst of acidity to brighten the mayonnaise.
- Olive oil (1/8 cup plus more): Used for brushing veggies and grill, providing a subtle fruity depth and helping achieve that perfect char.
- Red bell peppers (1 cup, sliced): Offer sweetness and vibrant color that contrasts beautifully with the other vegetables.
- Zucchini (1 small, sliced): Tender and mild, perfect for soaking up smoky grill flavors.
- Red onion (1, sliced): Adds a slightly sharp, sweet flavor and nice texture after grilling.
- Yellow squash (1 small, sliced): Another tender veggie that balances the mix with its mild sweetness.
- Focaccia bread (2 slices, 4×6 inch, split horizontally): Soft yet sturdy, with a slightly crisp crust that’s ideal for holding all the filling.
- Crumbled feta cheese (1/2 cup): Salty, tangy, and creamy — it brings everything together perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Squash, Red Pepper, and Feta Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic-Lemon Mayo
Combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl, then pop it into the refrigerator to chill. This flavorful spread will complement the smoky grilled veggies perfectly and add a refreshing zing.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to high heat to create a quick sear that caramelizes the veggies without drying them out. Preheating is key to locking in those irresistible charred flavors that make this sandwich truly special.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread Base
Spread the chilled mayonnaise mixture generously on the cut sides of the focaccia slices. Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta over the mayo — this layer will soften and melt slightly when grilled, creating a luscious, tangy foundation for the veggies.
Step 4: Oil and Grill the Vegetables
Brush each side of the sliced peppers, zucchini, red onion, and yellow squash with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper if you like, for an extra flavor kick. Lay down a large sheet of tinfoil on the grill and brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the vegetables on the grill strategically — peppers and zucchini nearer the center where it’s hottest, onions and squash around them. Position the bread, cheese side up, on the grill’s upper rack or a cooler spot. Grill the bread for about 2–3 minutes until the feta softens but doesn’t burn. Then, flip the vegetables and continue grilling for another 3 minutes until nicely tender and charred.
Step 5: Layer and Serve
Remove everything from the grill. Now comes the fun part: pile those smoky, sweet vegetables onto the focaccia slices. You can enjoy them open-faced to better savor the textures or top with the second slice of bread for a classic stacked sandwich experience. Both ways taste amazing, but personally, I love having that extra slice to make each bite more indulgent.
How to Serve Grilled Squash, Red Pepper, and Feta Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
For a little fresh brightness, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a light splash of balsamic glaze can also bring a lovely finishing touch that complements the grilled flavors.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, a handful of seasoned potato chips, or even a light tomato soup. The freshness of the sandwich balances these sides beautifully without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress up your Grilled Squash, Red Pepper, and Feta Sandwich Recipe for guests, try cutting each sandwich into smaller halves or quarters for easy finger food at parties. You can also serve it alongside a colorful vegetable platter to turn it into a more substantial shared appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover grilled vegetables and the sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping the bread separate prevents it from getting soggy.
Freezing
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh because freezing can change the texture of the grilled veggies and bread. However, you can freeze grilled vegetables alone in a sealed freezer bag for up to two months and reheat them later to make a quick sandwich.
Reheating
Reheat leftover grilled vegetables gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying them out, then assemble your sandwich fresh. Toast the bread lightly if needed to restore its crispness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While focaccia works beautifully for its texture and flavor, ciabatta, sourdough, or even a sturdy baguette can make excellent alternatives depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this sandwich vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan version and replace the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese or smashed avocado for creaminess.
How long should I grill the vegetables for?
Generally, 3 minutes per side is perfect to get tender, slightly charred vegetables. Adjust if your grill runs hotter or cooler, but keep an eye so nothing burns.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The garlic-lemon mayonnaise can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, which actually helps the flavors meld beautifully.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can grill the veggies in a grill pan or even roast them in the oven. The sandwich will still be full of flavor even without an outdoor grill.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Squash, Red Pepper, and Feta Sandwich Recipe is a true celebration of simple, fresh ingredients elevated by grilling. It’s perfect for when you want a delicious homemade meal that feels special without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy every vibrant, cheesy, smoky bite—you might just have found your new favorite sandwich!
