Grilled Zucchini

Name: Grilled Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini (sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Posted on November 28, 2025

Dinner Ideas

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Grilled Zucchini is a bright and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable! Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or a quick weeknight side, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of zucchini with a zesty twist from lemon and garlic. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, grilled zucchini makes for an appealing addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The pairing of garlic and lemon zest enhances the fresh taste of zucchini, making it truly irresistible.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy grilled zucchini as a side dish, in salads, or even as a topping for sandwiches or wraps.
Healthy and Nutritious: Low in calories and high in nutrients, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, grilled zucchini fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your grilling experience smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right kitchen tools on hand. The right equipment will help you achieve perfectly grilled zucchini every time.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Grill or grill pan
Baking sheet
Whisk
Small bowl
Brush

Why These Tools Matter

Grill or grill pan: A reliable grill ensures even cooking and those beautiful char marks that elevate flavor.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the marinade quickly and evenly, resulting in well-coated zucchini slices.
Baking sheet: Useful for preparing your zucchini slices before grilling; it provides a stable surface for marinating.

Ingredients

I love zucchini and this grilled zucchini recipe is one of my favorite ways to cook it! The flavors of lemon and garlic make fresh zucchini shine.

For the Grilled Zucchini

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper (to taste)
3 medium zucchini (sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices)

How to Make Grilled Zucchini

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and lemon zest until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Zucchini

Lay the zucchini slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with the oil mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can let the zucchini marinate at room temperature for 10-20 minutes if desired, but grilling right away works too!

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini

Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
1. Place the marinated zucchini slices on the grill.
2. Grill for about 4-6 minutes total, flipping the slices halfway through until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, remove from the grill and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. It adds a fresh, smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Here are some creative ways to serve your grilled zucchini.

As a Salad Topping

Fresh Greens: Add grilled zucchini slices to mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
Quinoa Bowl: Top your quinoa bowl with grilled zucchini and your favorite veggies for a nutritious meal.

With Dipping Sauces

Tzatziki Sauce: Serve grilled zucchini with tzatziki for a cool and creamy flavor contrast.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the zucchini for a sweet and tangy kick.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

Veggie Wrap: Include grilled zucchini in a wrap with hummus, spinach, and other vegetables.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer it on a grilled chicken sandwich for added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini

Grilling zucchini can be simple, but there are ways to enhance its flavor and texture. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

Bold Seasoning: Use plenty of herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different combinations.
Even Slices: Cut zucchini into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking on the grill.
Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill or grill pan; this helps create those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
Oil Properly: Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with oil to keep them moist during grilling.
Avoid Overcooking: Grill just until tender; overcooked zucchini can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
Let it Rest: Allow the grilled zucchini to rest briefly before serving; this helps the flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini

Pairing side dishes with grilled zucchini can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a rich contrast to the lightness of grilled zucchini.
Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cherry tomatoes and herbs makes a perfect side that balances out flavors well.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and sweetness, enhancing the overall presentation of your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brings out natural sweetness, creating an excellent pairing with smoky grilled zucchini.
Pasta Primavera: A light pasta primavera filled with seasonal vegetables complements the flavors of your dish beautifully.
Cauliflower Rice: Light yet filling, cauliflower rice serves as a healthy base that enhances the taste of grilled vegetables without overshadowing them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling zucchini can be simple and enjoyable, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your efforts. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Bold Flavorless Zucchini: Not seasoning the zucchini enough can lead to bland results. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and flavorful ingredients like garlic and herbs for a tasty outcome.
Bold Incorrect Thickness: Cutting zucchini slices too thick can result in uneven cooking. Aim for ¼-inch thick slices to ensure they grill evenly.
Bold Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces on the grill at once can trap steam and prevent proper grilling. Give each slice space for even cooking.
Bold Skipping Marination Time: While it’s okay to grill right away, letting the zucchini marinate enhances flavor. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before grilling.
Bold Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can lead to mushy zucchini. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat for the best texture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled zucchini in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini

Freeze grilled zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
It can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini

Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Bold Microwave: Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Bold Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best zucchini for grilling?

Look for firm, small-to-medium zucchinis with shiny skin. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes as they may not hold up well on the grill.

Can I grill other vegetables with zucchini?

Yes! Bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms are great companions when grilling alongside zucchini. Just ensure they have similar cooking times.

What’s the best way to serve grilled zucchini?

Grilled zucchini can be served as a side dish, tossed into salads, or added to pasta dishes. It’s versatile and complements many meals!

How long does grilled zucchini last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, grilled zucchini lasts up to three days. If frozen, it can last up to six months.

Can I use different herbs or spices on grilled zucchini?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano, and spices like paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This grilled zucchini recipe is not only easy but also showcases the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic beautifully. Perfect as a side dish or an addition to various meals, this recipe offers versatility that allows you to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy delicious grilled goodness!