Grill up perfection with this irresistible recipe for zucchini, a meaty and flavor-absorbing vegetable. Elevate your BBQ game and savor the vibrant flavors of summer!
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 10 minutes.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
How Many Servings?
8 servings
Table of Contents
Grilled zucchini, a common side dish at backyard BBQs, takes center stage as you meander through the lively farmer’s market during the abundant zucchini and summer squash season. Prepare to be enchanted by the assortment of shapes and sizes, ranging from petite and plump to elongated and slender. While all zucchinis belong to the squash family, it’s important to note that not all squashes can be classified as zucchini. This fascinating fact stems from the unique qualities of zucchini: smaller, denser, and with lower water content. Unlike its curvaceous summer squash counterparts, Zucchini boasts a sleeker, more streamlined appearance.
In my garden, I take delight in cultivating small white zucchinis, much to the pleasure of my family. Their enticing flavor has inspired me to incorporate them into many recipes, from savory stuffed delights filled with rice and lamb simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce to crispy zucchini fritters and refreshing zucchini salads.
For today’s recipe, the focus is on simplicity. I invite you to join me as we embark on a culinary journey, where we take halved zucchinis, generously coat them with olive oil, and place them directly on the grill. As we all know, zucchinis possess a substantial and robust texture that readily absorbs flavors. Once they emerge from the grill, we’ll lavish them with an irresistible sauce crafted from minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, and the finest olive oil. The end result? A harmonious medley of grilled zucchini that is sure to captivate your taste buds.
What Size Zucchini is Best for Making Grilled Zucchini?
For optimal results when making grilled zucchini, choosing zucchini that are not too small is recommended. Instead, opt for medium to large-sized zucchinis that can be easily halved lengthwise and fit well on the grill. Ideally, the zucchinis should measure between 8-10 inches in length. It’s worth noting that using super large zucchini should be avoided as they tend to have more seeds than regular-sized ones, which may impact the overall texture and taste of the grilled zucchini. Selecting zucchini within the recommended size range ensures a delightful experience and achieves deliciously grilled zucchini.
How Long Should You Grill Zucchini?
When grilling zucchini, it’s essential to cook until it reaches a desired level of tenderness without becoming overly mushy or soggy. Here’s an expanded explanation of how long you should grill zucchini:
- For perfect grilled zucchini, look for a soft texture and easy piercing. Check with a fork – if it goes in smoothly, it’s done.
- Grill Marks: Grill zucchini until it has charred grill marks for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Timing and Heat: Grill zucchini for 4-5 mins on each side, adjusting time-based on thickness and grill heat. Don’t overcook, or it may become mushy. Find a balance between tenderness and avoiding overcooking.
- Medium-High Heat: Grill zucchini at medium-high heat for a tender and firm texture with a subtle char and preserved natural flavors.
Flavor Variations:
Delight in the grilled zucchini’s original flavor while exploring exciting variations. The recipe’s essence shines through with its perfect balance of ingredients. However, if you’re seeking an extra dimension of taste, consider incorporating a drizzle of tangy pomegranate molasses. This delectable addition adds a hint of sweetness and a unique twist to the grilled zucchini. Furthermore, you can further elevate the dish by sprinkling Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta on top for a savory touch. Alternatively, for herbal freshness, experiment with aromatic basil or oregano.
Savor the Season: Pairing Ideas for Grilled Zucchini
Embrace the season’s bounty by pairing your grilled zucchini with a delightful array of seasonal ingredients and dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled corn on the cob during the summer months for a classic and satisfying combination. For a complete and mouthwatering meal, pair the grilled zucchini with succulent kofta kababs or grilled sea bass fish, offering a harmony of flavors. To add a refreshing touch, accompany the zucchini with a vibrant watermelon feta salad, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. And don’t forget to include a delectable dip like hummus to elevate the experience. By exploring these seasonal pairings ,you’ll maximize the abundant produce and enhance your overall dining enjoyment.
Preparation
Heat the grill.
Cut the zucchini halved lengthwise and rub them with olive oil.
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this delicious recipe for grilled zucchini. This dish is perfect for summer BBQs with its meaty texture and exceptional flavor absorption. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of zucchini and savor the season’s best!
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 10 minutes.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
How Many Servings?
8 servings
Ingredients:
Adjust Servings
| 8 medium zucchini trimmed (about 2lbs) halved lengthwise | |
| 2 tablespoons olive oil |
For the sauce:
| 2 minced garlic | |
| Juice two lemons (about ¼ cup, and zest of one lemon) | |
| ¼ cup olive oil | |
| 1 tablespoon sumac | |
| 1 teaspoon coriander | |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Preparation
Nutrition Information
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice.
See our full nutrition disclosure here.
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Have you tried this grilled zucchini recipe? I’d love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment below and share your experience with me. Did you enjoy the meaty texture and flavorful combination? I can’t wait to hear from you!