Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini is a fantastic way to highlight this versatile summer vegetable, transforming it into a delicious side dish that complements a wide array of meals.
With its mild flavor and tender texture, zucchini takes on a delightful smokiness when grilled, enhancing its natural sweetness.
This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful approach to preparing zucchini, making it an ideal choice for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with herbs, grilled zucchini can be served as a side or even added to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. It’s a quick, healthy, and visually appealing dish that showcases the best of summer produce.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish, optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy finish)
How to Make:
Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water. Cut off the ends, then slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can cut the halves into quarters.
Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add flavor to the zucchini while preventing it from sticking to the grill.
Marinate the Zucchini:
Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with the marinade. You can also place the zucchini in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let the zucchini sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preheat the Grill:
While the zucchini is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C). If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on the stovetop.
Grill the Zucchini:
Once the grill is hot, place the zucchini cut side down on the grill grates. Grill for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices. You should see nice grill marks and the zucchini should start to soften.
Flip the zucchini using tongs and grill for an additional 3-5 minutes on the other side until tender and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as you want the zucchini to maintain some of its crunch.
Add Finishing Touches:
If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled zucchini for an extra layer of flavor just before serving. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last minute of grilling, allowing it to melt slightly.
Serve:
Transfer the grilled zucchini to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm as a side dish or incorporate it into salads, pasta, or grain bowls.
Chef’s Note:
Choosing Zucchini: Select zucchinis that are firm, smooth, and have a vibrant green color. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for grilling.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or feta cheese. For an Asian-inspired flavor, consider brushing the zucchini with soy sauce or sesame oil.
Grilling Tips: If you’re concerned about small pieces falling through the grill grates, consider using a grill basket or skewering the zucchini slices onto skewers for easier handling.
Make Ahead: You can slice and marinate the zucchini a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Grilled zucchini is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful addition to any meal. Its simplicity allows for endless variations, and its vibrant presentation makes it an attractive dish for any occasion. Enjoy this recipe as part of a summer barbecue, or use it to add a touch of freshness to your everyday dinners. With its delightful taste and appealing texture, grilled zucchini is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Thanks for visiting Vegetables Recipe