Savory Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini for a Healthy Side Dish

🎉 Introduction

Grilling is one of the best ways to enhance the natural flavors of vegetables, and this Savory Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini recipe is no exception! Perfectly charred and infused with a delightful garlic and lemon marinade, this dish brings a fresh and vibrant twist to your summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or as part of a vegetarian feast, this simple yet delicious recipe is bound to please everyone at the table.

🧰 Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush
• Serving platter

🛒 Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Add the sliced zucchini to the bowl and toss until each piece is coated in the marinade.
Step 4: Let the zucchini marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Lightly oil the grill grates or use a grill pan to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Place the marinated zucchini slices on the grill in a single layer.
Step 7: Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender.
Step 8: Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
Step 9: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

🍽️ Servings & Timing

Serves 4 | Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 8 minutes | Total time: 23 minutes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the zucchini in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

🥄 Variations

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil instead of oregano.
• Substitute balsamic vinegar for lemon juice for a different flavor.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?
A: Yes, this marinade works well with other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus.

Q: Is it necessary to marinate the zucchini?
A: Marinating enhances the flavors, but if you’re short on time, you can grill the zucchini right after tossing it in the marinade.

Q: Can this dish be served cold?
A: Absolutely! Grilled zucchini can be served warm or chilled, making it a great addition to salads or cold platters.

Q: How can I ensure my zucchini doesn’t get mushy on the grill?
A: Slice the zucchini into even rounds and avoid grilling them too long. Aim for a slight crispness.

Q: What type of grill works best for this recipe?
A: Both gas and charcoal grills work well. A grill pan on the stovetop is also a good alternative.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the zucchini a few hours in advance and grill it just before serving.

Q: What can I serve with grilled zucchini?
A: Grilled zucchini pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a topping for pasta dishes.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I add cheese to the grilled zucchini?
A: Definitely! Sprinkle some feta or Parmesan on top before serving for an extra savory touch.

Q: How do I know when the zucchini is done grilling?
A: The zucchini should be tender and have visible grill marks. They cook quickly, so watch them closely!

🏁 Conclusion

This Savory Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini recipe not only adds a burst of flavor to your meals but also brings a healthy touch to your dining table. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of grilled zucchini, and feel free to experiment with additional flavors to make it your own!

Savory Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini for a Healthy Side Dish

Savory Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini for a Healthy Side Dish

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 medium zucchinis sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

• 1 Grill or grill pan
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Basting brush
• 1 Serving platter

Method

 

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk until well blended.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the bowl and toss until each piece is coated in the marinade.
4. Let the zucchini marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Lightly oil the grill grates or use a grill pan to prevent sticking.
6. Place the marinated zucchini slices on the grill in a single layer.
7. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender.
8. Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Storage & Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the zucchini in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

Variations:
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil instead of oregano.
- Substitute balsamic vinegar for lemon juice for a different flavor.