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
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. Zucchini boasts a sleeker, more streamlined appearance, unlike its curvaceous summer squash counterparts.
In my garden, I 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. 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 result? A harmonious medley of grilled zucchini that is sure to captivate your taste buds.
Ingredients for your Grilled Zucchini recipe:
- Medium Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchini for a sweeter taste and fewer seeds. They offer a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor when grilled.
- Olive Oil: Infuses a subtle, fruity flavor while aiding in the zucchinis’ caramelization and creating a delightful texture.
- Minced Garlic: Adds depth and a gentle pungency, complementing the zucchinis’ natural sweetness.
- Lemons and Zest: Provides a zesty, citrusy punch that enhances the overall brightness and freshness of the grilled zucchinis.
- Sumac: Brings a tangy, slightly acidic note, amplifying the dish’s complexity and adding a unique Mediterranean flair.
- Coriander: Offers an earthy, aromatic flavor that beautifully intertwines with the zucchini’s taste, contributing to a well-rounded profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Elevate and balance the flavors, ensuring each bite of the grilled zucchini is perfectly seasoned.
How Long Should You Grill Zucchini?
When grilling zucchini, 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.
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 summer 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. Exploring these seasonal pairings will maximize the abundant produce and enhance your overall dining enjoyment.
Looking for more fast Mediterranean meals? Check out our 15-minute Recipes for quick, delicious dishes!
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:
| 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.
Subscribe to my newsletter for authentic Mediterranean recipes, essential cooking tips, and the latest food news, all delivered directly to your inbox for FREE. Let’s create memorable dishes together!
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!