## H1 Grilled Zucchini: 5 Delicious & Easy Recipes
Grilled zucchini is a summer staple. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these five delicious and easy grilled zucchini recipes will elevate your summer meals. From simple seasoned planks to flavorful Mediterranean medleys, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in!
### Why Grill Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a slightly smoky char that’s simply irresistible. It’s also a fantastic way to cook zucchini without adding extra fat, making it a healthy and delicious option. Grilling also requires minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
### Essential Tips for Grilling Zucchini
Before we get to the recipes, here are a few essential tips for grilling zucchini perfectly every time:
* **Choose the right zucchini:** Select zucchini that are firm, smooth, and relatively small to medium in size. Larger zucchini can be watery and less flavorful.
* **Slice it evenly:** Consistent slicing ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly. Aim for slices that are about ¼ to ½ inch thick. If they are too thin, they will dry out; too thick, and they might not cook through.
* **Pre-heat your grill:** A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and preventing the zucchini from sticking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C).
* **Oil it up:** Lightly brush the zucchini slices with olive oil or another cooking oil before grilling. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
* **Don’t overcrowd the grill:** Give the zucchini slices enough space on the grill so that they can cook evenly and get those desirable grill marks.
* **Don’t overcook it:** Zucchini cooks quickly. Overcooking will result in mushy zucchini. Aim for tender-crisp.
* **Season generously:** Don’t be afraid to season your zucchini well. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning are all great options.
### Recipe 1: Simple Grilled Zucchini with Garlic and Herbs
This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, flavorful, and lets the natural taste of the zucchini shine through.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 medium zucchini, sliced ¼ inch thick
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or oregano), chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini:** Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼ inch thick rounds or planks.
2. **Make the garlic herb oil:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. **Marinate the zucchini:** Place the zucchini slices in a bowl and drizzle with the garlic herb oil. Toss to coat evenly.
4. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. **Grill the zucchini:** Place the zucchini slices on the preheated grill in a single layer. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender-crisp and lightly charred.
6. **Serve:** Remove the zucchini from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish with extra herbs, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic herb oil.
* Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or chives.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a touch of sweetness.
* Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
### Recipe 2: Grilled Zucchini with Lemon and Parmesan
The bright acidity of lemon combined with the salty richness of Parmesan cheese creates a delightful flavor combination that complements grilled zucchini perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 medium zucchini, sliced ¼ inch thick
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, zested and juiced
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini:** Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼ inch thick rounds or planks.
2. **Make the lemon Parmesan dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. **Marinate the zucchini:** Place the zucchini slices in a bowl and drizzle with the lemon Parmesan dressing. Toss to coat evenly.
4. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. **Grill the zucchini:** Place the zucchini slices on the preheated grill in a single layer. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender-crisp and lightly charred.
6. **Top with Parmesan:** Remove the zucchini from the grill and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately while the Parmesan is still warm and melty.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
* Add a pinch of garlic powder to the lemon Parmesan dressing for extra flavor.
* Serve with a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamy element.
* Try grilling the zucchini in a grill basket to prevent it from falling through the grates.
### Recipe 3: Mediterranean Grilled Zucchini Salad
This vibrant salad features grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 medium zucchini, sliced ¼ inch thick
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini:** Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼ inch thick rounds or planks.
2. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. **Grill the zucchini:** Lightly brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the zucchini slices on the preheated grill in a single layer. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender-crisp and lightly charred.
4. **Prepare the vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. **Assemble the salad:** In a large bowl, combine the grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
6. **Dress the salad:** Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other Mediterranean vegetables, such as bell peppers, eggplant, or cucumbers.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or halloumi.
* Add fresh herbs, such as mint or parsley, for extra flavor.
* Serve with grilled pita bread for a complete meal.
### Recipe 4: Grilled Zucchini and Corn Salsa
This vibrant salsa is a perfect topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tacos. It’s also delicious served with tortilla chips as an appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 medium zucchini, diced
* 2 ears of corn, kernels removed
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* ½ red onion, diced
* ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini and corn:** Dice the zucchini into small pieces. Remove the kernels from the corn.
2. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. **Grill the zucchini and corn:** Place the zucchini and corn kernels in a grill basket or on a sheet of aluminum foil. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred, stirring occasionally.
4. **Assemble the salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the grilled zucchini, grilled corn, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper (if using), red onion, and cilantro.
5. **Dress the salsa:** Add the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as black beans, avocado, or mango.
* Use a different type of pepper, such as poblano or serrano.
* Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
* Serve with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish, or tacos.
### Recipe 5: Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Ricotta and Spinach
These elegant zucchini rolls are filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture and then grilled to perfection. They make a delicious appetizer or light meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips (about ⅛ inch thick)
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini:** Wash and slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. A mandoline slicer works best for this, but a sharp knife will also do.
2. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. **Grill the zucchini:** Lightly brush the zucchini strips with olive oil. Grill for 1-2 minutes per side, or until slightly softened. Be careful not to overcook them, as they need to be pliable enough to roll.
4. **Prepare the filling:** In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, thawed spinach, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. **Assemble the rolls:** Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end of each zucchini strip. Roll up the strip and secure with a toothpick, if necessary.
6. **Grill the rolls:** Lightly brush the zucchini rolls with olive oil. Place the rolls on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through and lightly browned.
7. **Serve:** Remove the rolls from the grill and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Sauté the fresh spinach with garlic before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
* Add sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts to the filling.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella.
* Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
### Conclusion
Grilled zucchini is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. These five recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own grilled zucchini masterpieces. So fire up the grill and enjoy the taste of summer!