Fork-tender with that beautiful char only grilling can give you, this zucchini recipe is a must-have for summer cookouts. The customizable seasonings add flavor, just enough oil for a moist, delicate texture that pairs well with any main dish.
Everyone already knows summer is my favorite season. Although these intense heat waves are giving me cause to change my mind. Just another reason to take dinner to the grill instead of heating up the house with the stove.
Recently, I hit the jackpot with fresh summer zucchini going on sale. We were already planning on grilling steak, so why not take advantage of the fire? Besides, how much easier can it get than slicing them in half, adding some seasoning, and slapping them on the grill?
Plant-Based Goodness
Have you seen nutritionists really pushing the need for more plants in our diet? My first thought was, “I ain’t giving up meat!” But that wasn’t the idea. And I’m all for loading my plate with nutritious, delicious, and healthy vegetables. Plus, zucchini (or courgette, depending on where you live) is at the top of the list of good-for-you plants.
How to Grill Zucchini
Clean them, slice them in half lengthwise, season, and grill until tender. You could also slice them into thick slices and mix them with yellow squash.
Recipe Tips and Twists
- Cut the zucchini into thick slices lengthwise if they’re larger than you expected. Otherwise, halving them works fine.
- Zucchini cooks fast, so please don’t wander too far from the grill.
- Add chives, thyme, and dill to the herb mix for a flavor twist. You can also trade the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar.
- Rainy days are no problem. Cook them on a grill pan and make this recipe stovetop, or stick them under the broiler for a few minutes.
Make-Ahead and Leftover Makeovers
Take advantage of the grill by cooking up a double or triple batch. Chilled grilled summer squash goes great in soups and layered in pastitsio, veggie pizzas, and frittatas.
Cooked zucchini lasts refrigerated for 4-5 days or frozen for 3-4 months. And it’s good hot or cold.
What to Serve With Grilled Zucchini
For mains, BBQ chicken, grilled salmon, and steak work well. Or you could make an amazing Mediterranean mezzeh with hummus, tabouli or chickpea salad, tzatziki, and falafel with homemade pita.
More Easy Side Dish Recipes to Try
By Imma