This grilled zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s super easy to make. Toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, grill them, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
You won’t believe how simple it is! I love adding this to my plate, and it pairs perfectly with almost anything. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here. If zucchini isn’t available, you can also use yellow squash. Both have a similar texture and will grill nicely.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for its extra crunch. However, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute if panko isn’t on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace it with pecorino Romano. For a dairy-free choice, try nutritional yeast instead.
Fresh Parsley: While parsley is fresh and bright, you can swap it with basil or cilantro for a different twist. Dried herbs can work too, but fresh is best!
Olive Oil: Using olive oil for brushing adds flavor, but feel free to switch it with avocado oil or melted butter, depending on your taste or dietary preferences.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling zucchini to perfection means making sure it’s tender without turning mushy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This is crucial for achieving that nice char.
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise to create a larger surface for grilling. This not only helps it cook evenly but makes room for that delicious topping.
- Brush olive oil generously on the cut sides. It helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Place the zucchini cut-side up, and don’t overcrowd. Each piece needs space for heat to circulate around it.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling; about 8-10 minutes typically does the trick. Look for a tender texture and golden-brown topping.
Letting it cool for a couple of minutes after grilling allows the flavors to settle, making each bite even more enjoyable! And don’t forget the lemon juice – it brightens everything up!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes to enjoy this delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the zucchini grills evenly and gets that lovely charred flavor.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. This will be the tasty topping for your zucchini!
3. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take the halved zucchini and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper for extra flavor. This will help the seasoning stick and enhance the taste while grilling.
4. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves cut-side up on a grill-safe baking dish or directly on the grill grates. Spoon the breadcrumb and cheese mixture generously over each zucchini half. Make sure to cover them well for maximum flavor.
5. Cook Until Golden:
Grill the zucchini for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is tender and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, carefully take the zucchini off the grill and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top for that extra zing. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste or use a mild cheese like mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different cheese types, so watch for that golden brown color!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No worries! You can easily substitute fresh parsley with dried herbs such as basil or oregano. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs instead of fresh. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme can also add a delightful flavor to your dish.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the breadcrumb and cheese mixture and slice the zucchini ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to grill, simply brush the zucchini with olive oil, season, and top with the mixture before grilling!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or sandwiches!
