This grilled zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s bursting with flavor! The tender veggies pair perfectly with salty feta cheese and fresh basil to create a yummy combo.
I love throwing this together at summer cookouts. It’s so easy to make, and my friends can’t get enough of the mix of crunchy and creamy! You’ll want to serve this at every barbecue! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchini is key for this dish. If they aren’t available, yellow squash works well too. I find that the smaller the zucchini, the sweeter and more tender it will be, making for the best grill experience!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil for a milder taste, especially if you’re watching the smoke point when grilling.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy flavor and crumbly texture. If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese or even a diced mozzarella for a different twist. I personally love how well feta complements the zucchini.
Fresh Basil: Basil is perfect for freshness. If you can’t find it, try using parsley or even mint for something different, but fresh herbs really make this dish shine!
Pine Nuts: Pine nuts add a nice crunch. If you’re on a budget, try sunflower seeds or slivered almonds instead. Toasted walnuts can also work if you enjoy their flavor.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Without It Getting Soggy?
Grilling zucchini perfectly requires a few simple tricks. To avoid soggy slices, start by preheating the grill to a good medium-high temperature. The goal is to cook them fast enough to keep that firm texture.
- Make sure you slice zucchini into uniform 1/4-inch rounds. This helps them cook evenly.
- Toss the slices in oil and seasonings to create a protective layer before grilling. Don’t oversaturate them with oil, just enough to coat.
- Grill them in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. This allows heat circulation and better grill marks.
- Keep an eye on cooking time. About 4-5 minutes per side should do it!
With these tips, you’ll have perfect grilled zucchini every time! Enjoy your grilling!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Feta And Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to grill, making it a quick and tasty side dish in just 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your zucchini beautiful grill marks and a lovely smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each slice is well-coated to enhance the flavor when grilling.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re tender and have nice grill marks. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
4. Add Toppings:
Once the zucchini is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving bowl. While the zucchini is still warm, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. This will allow the cheese to soften just a bit, enhancing the flavor.
5. Finish with Herbs and Nuts:
Add the chopped basil and toasted pine nuts to the zucchini bowl. Then, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over everything to bring all the flavors together. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled zucchini warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this tasty dish with friends or family!
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is delicious, you can substitute with eggplant, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just make sure to cut them into similar thickness to ensure even grilling. Adjust the grilling time as needed based on the vegetable you choose!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up on the grill or in a skillet for a couple of minutes to retain their texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitution, goat cheese or ricotta can work great, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the zucchini and toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper beforehand, storing it covered in the fridge for a few hours. Just grill it fresh before serving for the best texture. Assemble the dish with feta, basil, and nuts just before serving to keep the ingredients vibrant!
