Grilled zucchini is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a canvas for culinary creativity. This versatile vegetable, when grilled, brings out a delightful combination of tenderness and a slightly charred flavor that can enhance any dish. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these five grilled zucchini recipes will add a vibrant touch to your summer meals.
1. Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan and Lemon
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick meal or a side dish. Here’s how to make it:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1⁄2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Cut zucchinis lengthwise into 1⁄4-inch thick slices. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the zucchini for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they get nice grill marks and are tender.
While still hot, sprinkle the zucchini with lemon zest, drizzle lemon juice over them, and then generously sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. The heat will melt the cheese slightly, enhancing the flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
📌 Note: For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan before sprinkling it over the zucchini.
2. Mediterranean Stuffed Grilled Zucchini
This recipe turns zucchini into a delightful appetizer or a light meal packed with Mediterranean flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 large zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1⁄4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1⁄2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1⁄2 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
Scoop out the seeds from the zucchini halves to create a space for stuffing. Brush with olive oil and season inside with salt and pepper.
Grill the zucchinis on medium heat, cut side down, until grill marks appear (about 3-4 minutes).
Meanwhile, mix feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, basil, and garlic in a bowl.
Remove zucchinis from the grill, turn them over, and fill each half with the feta mixture.
Place back on the grill, close the lid, and cook for another 3 minutes or until the stuffing is warm and cheese starts to melt.
🍽 Note: You can grill the zucchinis ahead of time and then stuff and reheat them right before serving for convenience at a party or barbecue.
3. Zucchini Ribbon Salad with Grilled Zucchini
Transform grilled zucchini into an elegant salad with this recipe that uses the vegetable in two forms - grilled and raw.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis (2 for grilling, 1 for raw)
- 1⁄2 cup shaved Parmesan
- 1⁄4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Small handful of mint leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Using a vegetable peeler, slice one zucchini into long, thin ribbons. Set aside for salad.
Slice the remaining two zucchinis into rounds or spears. Brush with olive oil and grill until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, prepare the dressing by whisking together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, combine grilled zucchini, raw zucchini ribbons, Parmesan, pine nuts, and mint leaves. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to mix.
Grilled zucchini, with its smoky, tender texture, is a summer favorite for many reasons. Not only does it offer a burst of fresh, green flavor, but it also pairs well with a multitude of ingredients, allowing for endless culinary exploration. From Parmesan and Lemon Grilled Zucchini to an elegant Zucchini Ribbon Salad, these recipes demonstrate the vegetable's versatility and appeal.
In your kitchen adventures, consider experimenting with different seasonings, herbs, or even marinades to find your perfect grilled zucchini dish. Whether served as a side, stuffed with delectable fillings, or transformed into a star salad ingredient, grilled zucchini is sure to impress your palate and delight your guests. Enjoy the season's freshest produce with these delightful recipes that not only taste great but are also simple to prepare, making your summer meals both delicious and memorable.
Can I use other types of summer squash for these recipes?
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Absolutely! While zucchini has a mild flavor, you can substitute or mix in other summer squashes like yellow squash or pattypan for a varied texture and taste.
How long will grilled zucchini last in the fridge?
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Grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best taste and texture, reheat gently or serve cold in salads or sandwiches.
What should I do if my zucchini is too watery after grilling?
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To reduce the moisture, you can either pat the slices dry with paper towels before grilling or grill them for a slightly longer time to evaporate some moisture. Additionally, salting the slices before grilling can draw out excess water.
