Summer is here, and so is the season of grilling—can you hear the sizzle? Zucchini, often the humble sidekick, takes center stage in this recipe, bringing a burst of garlicky goodness. It’s funny how something so simple can transform a barbecue into a feast, almost like when you find an unexpected gem in a thrift store.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. Trim the stem ends off the zucchini and slice them lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick pieces for even cooking.
- Arrange the zucchini slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil and season with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the slices to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
- Place the zucchini slices onto the preheated grill grates. Cover the grill and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing grill marks to form. Flip the slices over, cover again, and grill for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they become tender-crisp.
- Once cooked, transfer the zucchini to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of flavor and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for additional zest.
Ingredients
- 4 small to medium-sized zucchini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 420 kcal | Carbs: 36 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 30 g | Saturated Fat: 6 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18 g | Sodium: 1230 mg | Potassium: 2250 mg | Fiber: 12 g | Sugar: 24 g | Vitamin A: 1932 IU | Vitamin C: 204 mg | Calcium: 168 mg | Iron: 6 mg
FAQ
- Can I use different types of squash for this recipe?
- Yes, this recipe is quite versatile. You can substitute zucchini with any squash variety, like yellow squash or pattypan squash. Feel free to experiment with different spices to match your taste preferences.
- What should I look for when buying zucchini for grilling?
- Opt for small to medium-sized zucchini, as they have fewer seeds and are more tender compared to larger ones. The skin should be smooth and a vibrant green color without any soft spots or wrinkles.
- Can I cook this recipe on an indoor grill pan?
- Certainly! This grilled zucchini recipe works well on an indoor grill pan or a George Foreman grill. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might differ slightly from outdoor grilling.
- How should I store and reheat leftover grilled zucchini?
- Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the zucchini in a skillet over medium heat until warm or use a microwave for a few seconds.
- What are some serving suggestions for grilled zucchini?
- Grilled zucchini makes a great side dish for a variety of main courses. It pairs well with hamburgers, grilled salmon, pork tenderloin, or even as part of a Tuscan shrimp pasta. It can also be used in breakfast dishes like omelets or frittatas.
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Opt for small to medium-sized zucchini for grilling, as they tend to be more tender and have fewer seeds than larger ones. Ensure the skin is a vibrant green without any soft spots or wrinkles for the best results.
- Avoid Overcooking: To achieve the perfect tender-crisp texture, grill the zucchini for just a few minutes on each side. Remove them from the grill while they still have a slight crunch to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Enhance Flavor with Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the grilled zucchini adds a refreshing zing that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetable. Don’t skip this step for an extra burst of flavor.
- Versatility in Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices to match your taste preferences or to complement the main dishes you’re serving. Using the same spice rub on your grilled zucchini and any accompanying meat or poultry can create a harmonious flavor profile.
Equipment
- Mandolin slicer (with protective glove) – For slicing zucchini into even strips quickly.
- Grill or indoor grill pan/George Foreman Griddle – For grilling the zucchini.
- Rimmed baking sheet – To season and prepare zucchini before grilling.
