Grilled zucchini with parmesan is a simple and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm weather. The zucchini gets tender and smoky on the grill, topped with yummy parmesan cheese that melts beautifully!
Trust me, it’s hard to say no to veggies when they taste this good! I love to serve it alongside grilled chicken or on its own as a light snack. Yum! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. If zucchinis aren’t available, try using summer squash or eggplant as a tasty substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast mixed with nut flour.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crisp texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work well, but they may be less crunchy.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. If you prefer, melted butter or avocado oil is a great alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini is Tender and the Topping is Golden Brown?
The grilling process can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get perfect zucchinis every time. Start by preheating your grill well. Ensure the heat is medium-high to get that nice char and ensure cooking without burning.
- After brushing with olive oil, place the zucchinis cut side up. This helps keep them moist as they grill.
- Keep an eye on the time—5 to 7 minutes should do the trick, but check if they’re fork-tender and the topping turns golden.
For consistent results, you might want to rotate the zucchinis halfway through grilling. Enjoy the flavorful addition of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a bright touch!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 7 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’ll need about 17 minutes to have this delightful grilled zucchini ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First things first! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for grilling those zucchinis perfectly.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, wash your zucchinis under cold water and cut them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out some of the flesh from each half to create a small channel for the filling, making sure to leave about a 1/4-inch border to keep them sturdy.
3. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix everything together until well combined and tasty!
4. Brush the Zucchini:
Take the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and brush it generously on the cut sides of the zucchini halves. This will help them grill beautifully.
5. Fill the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to fill those zucchini halves with your tasty breadcrumb mixture! Press it down gently to pack it in, making sure they’re filled nicely.
6. Grill to Perfection:
Carefully place the filled zucchinis on the grill, cut side up. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the topping is golden brown. The smell will be amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take the zucchinis off the grill and serve them warm. Don’t forget to add some lemon wedges on the side for a nice squeeze of flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini with Parmesan!
## FAQ About Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture, or feta for a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the cooking time slightly due to varying moisture content.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the grilled zucchini cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
How Can I Make the Filling Extra Flavorful?
Enhance the flavor by adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your mix!
