If you’re looking for a mouthwatering way to enjoy the flavors of summer, look no further than the Zesty Grilled Zucchini Slice recipe. This delectable dish is the perfect option for those warm evenings spent grilling outdoors. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this zucchini slice is a delicious treat that will leave you and your guests craving for more.
Ingredients
Zucchini
Zucchini is the star ingredient of this zesty grilled zucchini slice recipe. It is a versatile summer squash that is mild in flavor and has a firm yet tender texture when cooked. Choose zucchinis that are firm, glossy, and free from blemishes. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis as they are easier to handle and have a consistent cooking time.
Olive oil
Olive oil is not only used for grilling the zucchini, but it also helps ensure that the slices do not stick to the grill. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. The high smoke point of olive oil makes it ideal for grilling at high temperatures without compromising taste.
Lemon juice
Adding a splash of lemon juice to the zucchini slices gives them a tangy and refreshing flavor. The acidity of the lemon juice balances out the richness of the olive oil and adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice for the best flavor or use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are not available.
Garlic
Garlic adds a savory and aromatic element to the grilled zucchini slices. It enhances the overall flavor profile and complements the zesty marinade. Use freshly minced garlic for the best taste, or if you prefer milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the zucchini slices. They enhance the natural flavors of the zucchini and the other ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt for superior taste and freshly ground black pepper for an added kick of flavor.
Instructions
Preparing the zucchini
- Start by washing the zucchini thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Trim the ends of the zucchini and then slice them into uniform slices of about 1/4 inch thickness. Taking care to slice them evenly ensures even cooking and prevents some slices from being overcooked or undercooked.
Making the marinade
- In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Place the zucchini slices in a shallow dish, such as a baking dish or a large plate, and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the zucchini slices in the marinade, ensuring that each slice is coated evenly.
- Let the zucchini slices marinate for at least 15 minutes, but preferably an hour, to allow the flavors to penetrate the slices and develop a zesty taste.
Grilling the zucchini slices
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a gas grill, preheat it for about 10 minutes. If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and covered with gray ash before grilling.
- Using tongs, carefully place the marinated zucchini slices onto the preheated grill. Make sure to shake off any excess marinade before placing them on the grill to avoid flare-ups.
- Grill the zucchini slices for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks. Avoid overcooking the slices as they may become mushy. Keep a close eye on them and turn them over only once to ensure even cooking.
- Once the zucchini slices are grilled to your desired doneness, remove them from the grill using tongs and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Allow the grilled zucchini slices to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and the zucchini to become even more tender.
Tips for Grilling
Choosing the right zucchini
When selecting zucchinis for grilling, look for ones that are firm, glossy, and free from blemishes or bruises. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis as they are easier to handle and have a consistent cooking time.
Slicing the zucchini uniformly
To ensure even cooking and prevent some slices from being overcooked or undercooked, it is important to slice the zucchini uniformly. Aim for slices of about 1/4 inch thickness.
Marinating the zucchini slices
Marinating the zucchini slices helps infuse them with flavor and also prevents them from drying out on the grill. Allow the zucchini slices to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but preferably an hour, to allow the flavors to penetrate the slices.
Preheating the grill
Preheating the grill is crucial for achieving perfect grilled zucchini slices. Whether you are using a gas grill or a charcoal grill, make sure to preheat it for at least 10 minutes before placing the zucchini slices on the grates. This ensures that the grill is hot enough to sear the zucchini and create beautiful grill marks.
Grilling time and temperature
Grill the zucchini slices over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. This cooking time allows the zucchini to become tender while still retaining a slight crunch. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the intensity of your grill. Keep a close eye on the slices to avoid overcooking and test their doneness by piercing with a fork.
Variations
Zesty grilled zucchini with herbs
For an herb-infused twist on the zesty grilled zucchini slices, simply add a tablespoon of your favorite fresh herbs to the marinade. Basil, parsley, or thyme work particularly well with the flavors of grilled zucchini.
Zesty grilled zucchini with Parmesan cheese
Take the zesty grilled zucchini up a notch by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the slices before grilling. The cheese will melt and form a deliciously crisp crust on top of the zucchini, adding a savory and nutty flavor.
Zesty grilled zucchini with balsamic glaze
For a sweet and tangy flavor profile, drizzle the grilled zucchini slices with balsamic glaze before serving. The glaze adds a rich depth of flavor and complements the zesty marinade beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
As a side dish
Grilled zucchini slices make a fantastic side dish for any summer meal. Serve them alongside grilled meats such as chicken or steak, or pair them with grilled fish for a light and flavorful combination. The zesty flavors of the grilled zucchini will complement any main course and add a vibrant touch to your plate.
In a zucchini sandwich
Get creative and use the grilled zucchini slices as a delicious filling for a zucchini sandwich. Layer them between slices of crusty bread or buns, along with some fresh greens, tomatoes, and your favorite spreads or condiments. This sandwich will impress your taste buds with its zesty and smoky flavors.
With grilled meats or fish
Grilled zucchini slices are the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. They add a light and refreshing element to any grilled protein, balancing out the flavors and textures of the dish. Serve the grilled zucchini slices alongside your favorite grilled meats or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can definitely use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill to make these zesty grilled zucchini slices. A grill pan will allow you to achieve similar grill marks and impart that smoky flavor to the zucchini slices. Simply heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same instructions for grilling the zucchini slices. Just make sure to oil the grill pan lightly to prevent sticking.
Can I use other types of squash instead of zucchini?
While zucchini is the star of this recipe, you can certainly use other types of summer squash as a substitute. Yellow squash and pattypan squash are great alternatives and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Follow the same instructions for preparing, marinating, and grilling the squash slices.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the zesty grilled zucchini slices are best served fresh off the grill, you can make them ahead of time and serve them at room temperature. Once the slices are grilled, allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, let the zucchini slices come to room temperature to maximize their flavors.
Conclusion
Grilled zucchini slices are a delicious and healthy summer grilling option that adds a zesty punch to any meal. With a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper, you can transform ordinary zucchini into a flavorful and satisfying side dish or sandwich filling. Whether you choose to enjoy them alongside grilled meats, in a zucchini sandwich, or as part of a summer salad, these zesty grilled zucchini slices will be a hit with your taste buds. So fire up the grill and savor the flavors of summer with this zucchini recipe!
