Grilled Zucchini with Cheese, Fresh Herbs, and Lemon
This simple yet flavorful grilled zucchini dish is a perfect showcase of summer produce. Thinly sliced zucchini is grilled until tender with charred marks, then topped with crumbled cheese, a generous handful of fresh herbs, and finished with lemon zest and juice. It’s light, bright, and perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a base for a healthy grain bowl. The creamy cheese and lemon cut through the zucchini’s earthiness, making every bite vibrant and balanced.
Time & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
Ingredients
3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
⅓ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (or grated Parmesan for a sharper option)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of ½ lemon
¼ cup fresh chopped herbs (e.g., parsley, basil, mint, or dill)
Optional: chili flakes or crushed toasted nuts (like pine nuts or almonds) for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan:
Get your grill or stovetop grill pan hot and lightly oiled.
2. Season the Zucchini:
Brush zucchini slices with olive oil on both sides. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place zucchini on the grill. Cook for 3–5 minutes per side, or until grill marks form and the slices are tender but not mushy.
4. Plate and Finish:
Arrange grilled zucchini on a platter. While still warm, sprinkle with cheese, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Garnish:
Add optional chili flakes or nuts if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Chef’s Notes & Tips
Cheese Choices: Feta adds saltiness, goat cheese adds creaminess, Parmesan adds umami. Use what suits your dish.
Zucchini Thickness: Don’t slice too thin or it’ll fall apart on the grill. ¼ inch is perfect.
Flavor Boost: Add a drizzle of good-quality balsamic reduction or honey for a sweet-acid balance.
Advance Prep: Zucchini can be grilled a few hours in advance and served at room temperature.
Herb Combos: Mint and basil add brightness; dill adds a delicate herbal flavor; parsley gives freshness.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Grill zucchini earlier in the day. Assemble with cheese, herbs, and lemon just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: Use a stovetop grill pan or a regular cast iron skillet to achieve similar charred marks and flavor.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Absolutely. Use plant-based cheese or skip cheese and add toasted nuts and extra lemon for flavor depth.
Q: How do I keep zucchini from getting soggy?
A: Grill over medium-high heat quickly to maintain structure. Don’t overcrowd the grill.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Great with grilled meats, couscous, quinoa, or as part of a mezze platter with dips and bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 140 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Sugars: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Calcium: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 30% DV