Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled zucchini is incredibly easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and is perfect for a light, healthy meal. The grilling process caramelizes the zucchini’s natural sugars, enhancing its flavor with a slight smoky char. It’s a low-calorie dish that’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. You can customize the seasoning based on your preferences, making it the perfect side for burgers, grilled chicken, or even pasta. Plus, zucchini is naturally versatile and can be grilled in a variety of ways, whether sliced into rounds, spears, or planks.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or lengthwise
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into rounds or lengthwise, depending on your preference. You can also cut them into wedges or planks for a different texture.
Season the Zucchini: In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the zucchini is evenly coated.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it on the stovetop.
Grill the Zucchini: Place the zucchini on the grill in a single layer. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred. If you’re grilling lengthwise, flip the zucchini carefully to avoid it falling apart.
Serve: Once grilled, drizzle the zucchini with fresh lemon juice, if desired, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-4
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Grilling time: 6-8 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the zucchini as it finishes grilling for extra flavor.
Spicy option: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper before grilling for some heat.
Herb-infused: Try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of dried oregano for a fragrant herb flavor.
Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the zucchini slices in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For the best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh off the grill.

FAQs

1. Can I grill zucchini with the skin on?

Yes, you can. The skin of zucchini adds texture and holds the slices together while grilling.

2. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly for grilling zucchini if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

3. How do I prevent zucchini from becoming mushy?

Grill the zucchini on medium-high heat for just a few minutes on each side to avoid overcooking. Also, make sure to pat the zucchini dry before grilling to prevent excess moisture.

4. Can I make grilled zucchini ahead of time?

Grilled zucchini is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and eat them within a few days. The flavor will still be great, though the texture may soften slightly.

5. What other seasonings can I use for grilled zucchini?

You can use a variety of seasonings such as smoked paprika, cumin, Italian seasoning, or lemon zest to bring out different flavors in the zucchini.

6. Can I grill zucchini with other vegetables?

Yes, zucchini pairs beautifully with other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and eggplant. Simply toss all the veggies with olive oil and seasonings, then grill them together.

7. How can I make grilled zucchini spicy?

For a spicier version, add chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce before or after grilling.

8. Can I use frozen zucchini for grilling?

Frozen zucchini tends to become too soft when thawed, so it’s best to use fresh zucchini for grilling. If you must use frozen, be sure to drain and pat it dry before grilling.

9. How thick should I slice the zucchini?

For even grilling, slice the zucchini into about 1/2-inch thick slices or planks. This allows them to cook through without falling apart.

10. Can I add a marinade to zucchini before grilling?

Yes, marinating zucchini in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, herbs, and garlic for 20-30 minutes before grilling can add extra flavor and tenderness.

Conclusion

Grilled zucchini is a delicious and easy side dish that complements almost any meal. With its natural sweetness, smoky flavor, and crispy texture, it’s the perfect addition to your summer grilling repertoire. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, tossing it into a salad, or just enjoying it on its own, this simple dish is always a hit. Easy to make, nutritious, and full of flavor, grilled zucchini is a must-try recipe for every cookout or weeknight dinner.