Here’s how to turn humble zucchini into a smoky, tender side dish that everyone will love. Grilled zucchini is simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Zucchini: Look for firm, medium-sized zucchini. Yellow squash works well as a substitute.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best. Any neutral oil like avocado oil can be used.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a nice savory note. Fresh minced garlic can be used, but be careful it doesn’t burn on the grill.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste.
- Optional Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness after grilling.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
- Tools Needed: Cutting board, sharp knife, mixing bowl, grill or grill pan, tongs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Zucchini
Start by washing your zucchini thoroughly. Trim off both ends, then slice each zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick planks. Aim for even thickness so they cook uniformly.
2. Season the Zucchini
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently with your hands or tongs until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
3. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on your stovetop until hot. A well-heated grill prevents sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
4. Grill the Zucchini
Carefully place the seasoned zucchini planks directly onto the hot grill grates. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the zucchini is tender and shows nice char marks. Don’t overcrowd the grill; work in batches if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the grilled zucchini is tender, remove it from the grill and arrange it on a serving platter. If using, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Storage Instructions:
Leftover grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave, or on a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make this grilled zucchini recipe in an oven?
A: Yes, you can roast zucchini in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?
A: Don’t overcrowd the grill, and make sure your grill is hot enough. This helps the moisture evaporate quickly instead of steaming the zucchini.
Q: Do I need to salt the zucchini before grilling to draw out water?
A: For this quick grilling method, it’s not usually necessary. The high heat of the grill will cook it quickly.
Q: Can I add other seasonings to the grilled zucchini?
A: Absolutely! Red pepper flakes for a kick, or dried oregano and thyme for a more Mediterranean flavor are great additions.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini for grilling?
A: It’s best to use fresh zucchini for grilling as frozen zucchini tends to release a lot of water and can become mushy.