This Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, flavorful side dish. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this dish highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini while adding a hint of garlic and seasoning. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light vegetarian option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays.
- Flavorful Seasoning: The combination of olive oil and garlic powder enhances the zucchini’s natural taste without overpowering it.
- Versatile Side Dish: This grilled zucchini works well alongside various main courses, making it suitable for any meal.
- Healthy Option: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, it’s a guilt-free addition to your table.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever cravings strike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill (indoor or outdoor)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances the zucchini’s taste.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine the ingredients seamlessly, ensuring even coating of the zucchini with oil and seasoning.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures smooth slicing of the zucchini into even planks for uniform cooking.
- Tongs: Allows you to easily flip and remove the zucchini from the grill without damaging its delicate texture.
Ingredients
This is hands-down the easiest, most delicious grilled zucchini recipe you’ll ever try—we promise!
For the Zucchini
- 2 medium zucchini
For Flavoring
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your indoor or outdoor grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
- Remove both ends of each zucchini.
- Slice them diagonally into ½ thick planks.
- Place the sliced zucchini in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the zucchini.
Step 3: Grill the Zucchini
- Place the coated zucchini planks on the grill.
- Grill for about 5–6 minutes per side or until nicely seared.
- Check for desired tenderness; remember, they will continue to soften after being removed from heat.
Enjoy your simple grilled zucchini as a delightful side dish that will impress family and friends alike!
How to Serve Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
Serving grilled zucchini is a delightful way to enhance any meal. This versatile vegetable can be paired with various dishes, making it a great addition to any plate.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Add slices of grilled zucchini to your favorite green salad for extra flavor and texture. It complements fresh greens beautifully.
Serve with Quinoa
- Grilled zucchini pairs perfectly with fluffy quinoa. The nutty flavor of quinoa balances the soft, smoky zucchini.
Top on Pasta
- Use grilled zucchini as a topping for pasta dishes. Its lightness adds a fresh touch to heavier sauces.
Accompany with Grilled Chicken
- Serve alongside grilled chicken for a balanced meal. The smoky undertones from both dishes will enhance the overall taste.
How to Perfect Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
Perfecting your grilled zucchini is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.
- Choose fresh zucchini: Select firm, vibrant zucchinis for the best flavor and texture.
- Slice evenly: Cut the zucchini into uniform planks for even cooking and consistent grill marks.
- Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the zucchini on it. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each piece space on the grill so they cook evenly and do not steam.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices or herbs like oregano or paprika for additional flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
Grilled zucchini makes an excellent side dish that pairs well with various entrees. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic create a comforting counterpart to grilled zucchini.
- Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and sweetness, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal and taste.
- Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers and tomatoes complements the smoky flavors of the zucchini.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a healthy, vibrant side that brightens up your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch, making it a fantastic summer pairing.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This protein-packed salad provides a hearty contrast while maintaining freshness.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs brings aromatic flavors that balance well with grilled vegetables.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with grains, beans, or veggies, stuffed peppers add substance and nutrition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling zucchini can be an easy and delicious task, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold Preparation: Not properly prepping the zucchini leads to uneven cooking. Always slice the zucchini into uniform pieces for even grilling.
- Bold Overcooking: Leaving zucchini on the grill too long makes it mushy. Check for doneness at around 5–6 minutes per side to maintain a good texture.
- Bold Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your zucchini can make it bland. Use olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Bold Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling on low heat results in steaming rather than grilling. Preheat the grill to medium heat for optimal results.
- Bold Failing to Monitor: Walking away from the grill can lead to burnt zucchini. Stay nearby and keep an eye on it while cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
- Place cooled zucchini slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place zucchini on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place zucchini on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add zucchini and sauté briefly until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cut zucchini for grilling?
Cutting zucchini into diagonal planks about ½ inch thick allows for better grilling surface area and promotes even cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to this Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions complement grilled zucchini wonderfully and enhance the dish’s flavor.
How do I know when grilled zucchini is done?
Zucchini is done when it has nice grill marks and is tender but still slightly firm. Avoid overcooking to keep its texture.
Can I use this recipe as a meal prep option?
Yes! This Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe makes a great addition to meal prep, providing healthy sides that reheat well.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe stands out for its simplicity and delightful flavor. It’s perfect as a side dish or part of a veggie platter. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or mixing in other grilled vegetables!
Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Looking for a fresh and flavorful side that’s easy to prepare? This Simple Grilled Zucchini Recipe is the perfect solution for your summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Highlighting the natural sweetness of zucchini, this dish is enhanced with a hint of garlic and seasoning, making it a delightful addition to any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this healthy option in no time, whether it’s served alongside grilled chicken or tossed into a vibrant salad. Enjoy the smoky char and tender texture of grilled zucchini that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove both ends of each zucchini and slice diagonally into ½-inch thick planks.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Grill the zucchini for about 5-6 minutes per side or until nicely seared and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini plank (about 30g)
- Calories: 12
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Choose firm zucchinis for the best results. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
