Grilled Zucchini Is A Summer Superstar

Grilled zucchini is a simple side in preparation, ready in just about 15 minutes from start to finish, but it's incredibly flavorful and versatile to whatever else it is you're cooking up.

For the times when the zucchini seems to multiply in the refrigerator, it’s key to have a variety of ways to prepare this vegetable. Cut into planks and grilled, zucchini makes the perfect base for different toppings. We like to serve it with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.

Learn how to grill zucchini, and get a few ideas for other topping options below.

Ingredients for Grilled Zucchini

Our recipe for grilled zucchini uses lemon juice, herbs, and cheese for incredible flavor. Once you know the technique for making this dish, however, feel free to mix up the toppings. Here's what you'll need to start:

• Zucchini: Use medium-sized zucchini for this dish so you can great planks without tough skin.
• Olive oil: This keeps the zucchini from sticking to the grill and helps seasonings stick. Another neutral oil like canola or avocado oil would work, too.
• Lemons: The citrus fruits will be used for both lemon zest and lemon juice.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
• Parmesan cheese: The nutty, salty cheese is a great counterpart to the floral lemon flavors.
• Herbs: We recommend basil, parsley, or dill, or use dried Italian seasoning if nothing fresh is on hand.

How To Grill Zucchini

Our technique for grilling zucchini is great to know; you can mix up the toppings from there. Here are the key elements of the recipe. The rest is further below.

• Step 1. Slice the zucchini into planks about half an inch thick.
• Step 2. Toss all the zucchini planks into a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
• Step 3. Grill each plank over medium-high heat until grill marks are on both sides. The zucchini should still be firm, however. Overcooking the zucchini could make it too soft.
• Step 4. Once cooked, toss the grilled zucchini pieces with lemon juice. Finish by sprinkling the vegetables with cheese and herbs.

Variations for Grilled Zucchini Toppings

Looking to change up the flavors of your new favorite side dish? Try one of these next:

• Greek-style: Use fresh oregano and parsley or dill for the herbs, and substitute crumbled feta for the Parmesan.
• Balsamic-grilled: Omit the lemon zest, and substitute balsamic glaze for the lemon juice. Use basil for the herbs and Parmesan or feta for the cheese.
• Tex-mex: Swap lemon zest and lemon juice for lime zest and juice. Instead of Parmesan, use Cotija, and top with a sprinkle of paprika and cilantro.

How To Choose the Best Zucchini for Grilled Zucchini

For the best grilled zucchini, look for firm, bright zucchini with a shiny skin. They should be about two inches in diameter, and about eight to 10 inches long. Try to get them before they're too large and have a thick skin.

What To Serve With Grilled Zucchini:

This versatile side dish cooks quickly after you’ve pulled dinner off of the grill. A few of our favorite options:

• Easy Grilled Shrimp
• Grilled Pork Chops
• Grilled Barbecue Chicken
• Spice-Rubbed Flank Steak With Corn-Chile Relish 
• Grilled Chicken Sandwiches