Lemon Grilled Zucchini & Crispy Chickpeas over Tzatziki
This dish layers cool, creamy tzatziki with lemon-marinated grilled zucchini and crunchy spiced chickpeas. It’s the perfect light lunch, appetizer, or side — full of Mediterranean flair, protein, and fresh herbs. Served warm over cold tzatziki, it offers the perfect contrast of temperature and texture.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Zucchini:
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds or strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
1 garlic clove, grated
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Crispy Chickpeas:
1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained, rinsed & thoroughly dried
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
For the Tzatziki:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
½ cup finely grated cucumber (squeezed to remove water)
1 clove garlic, finely grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or mint
Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tzatziki:
In a bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and salt. Mix well and chill while you prep the rest.
2. Crisp the Chickpeas:
Preheat oven or air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Toss chickpeas with oil, cumin, paprika, and salt. Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crunchy.
3. Marinate and Grill the Zucchini:
Toss zucchini with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high. Grill zucchini slices for 2–3 minutes per side until charred and tender. Remove and set aside.
4. Assemble
Spoon chilled tzatziki into a shallow bowl or plate. Top with warm grilled zucchini and crispy chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and garnish with herbs (like parsley or dill).
Notes & Tips:
Serve with warm pita, quinoa, or as a side to grilled fish or chicken.
Add feta crumbles or avocado for a richer version.
Tzatziki can be made a day ahead — flavor improves with time.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use canned zucchini or frozen grilled zucchini?
Fresh is best, but thawed grilled frozen zucchini works in a pinch — just pat dry and grill briefly to refresh texture.
Q: Is this dish vegan?
Use a plant-based yogurt for vegan tzatziki, and you’re all set!
Q: Can I air fry the chickpeas?
Yes! Air fry at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Nutritional Information
Calories 310 kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fiber 7g
Fat 16g
Sodium 280mg