This grilled zucchini is a simple and tasty side dish that shines with the magic of Parmesan cheese. Just slice, grill, and sprinkle for a burst of flavor!
I love how quick this dish is to make! Pair it with your favorite grilled meats, or just munch on it as a snack. It’s like a garden party on your plate! 🌱🍴
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect as they hold their shape well when grilled. If they’re out of season, yellow squash works nicely too. Both offer that lovely tender texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano has a similar taste, but it’s saltier. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option for a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Panko for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are fine too. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts for a different texture.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat that helps the stuffing stick and adds moisture. You can use avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer something different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon) since it’s more concentrated.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully. In a pinch, you can use vinegar (white or apple cider) for a similar effect.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, as too much moisture can make it soggy. To avoid this, start by properly prepping the zucchinis. When you scoop out the flesh, leave enough to keep them sturdy.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat to create a nice sear.
- Drizzle the insides with lemon juice and oil before adding the mixture. This adds flavor and creates a barrier.
- Grill with the cut side up so the topping cooks while the zucchini steams from the inside.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling, as they won’t take long—around 10-15 minutes.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly grilled zucchini that’s tender but not mushy!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini recipe will take about 25 minutes total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for grilling. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This ensures that the zucchinis will cook evenly and give you that delicious grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out some of the flesh to create a little boat for your filling. Don’t throw away the scooped-out flesh—it can be used in another recipe, like a stir-fry!
3. Make the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are fully coated in the oil and it looks well combined.
4. Prepare the Zucchini for Filling:
Drizzle the insides of the hollowed zucchinis with fresh lemon juice and a little olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each half to add flavor.
5. Fill the Zucchinis:
Take your breadcrumb and cheese mixture and generously fill each zucchini half. Press down slightly to make sure it’s packed in nicely so it doesn’t fall out while grilling.
6. Grill the Zucchinis:
Carefully place the stuffed zucchinis on the grill, cut side up. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the topping is a lovely golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take them off the grill and let them cool slightly. Feel free to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the zucchini.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan! It’s a great side dish or a lighter meal option!
## FAQ for Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish will change slightly depending on the cheese you choose.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can achieve similar results by broiling them in your oven. Simply place the stuffed zucchini on a baking sheet and broil for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning, until the tops are golden and the zucchini is tender. Make sure to position the rack close to the broiler!
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini by hollowing them out and making the breadcrumb mixture a few hours ahead of time. Just store the zucchini halves and the mixture separately in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve them!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating can bring back that cheesy flavor!
