The aroma of grilled zucchini with garlic and herbs wafts through the air, promising a delightful explosion of flavors. Imagine tender slices kissed by the flames, their vibrant green color brightening your plate while the garlicky goodness dances on your taste buds.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon barbecue, laughter echoing from friends gathered around the grill. You’ve just served up this delicious dish, and suddenly everyone agrees you should open a restaurant. Spoiler alert: you won’t, but you’ll definitely win their hearts with this recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled zucchini with garlic and herbs is incredibly easy to make for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- The combination of fresh herbs and garlic creates a flavor profile that is out of this world
- Each bite bursts with color, making your plate look professionally styled
- Versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish, it pairs beautifully with any meal
I once brought grilled zucchini to a family reunion, and let me tell you, I might as well have walked in with gold bars. My cousin’s kids declared it “magic green noodles,” and I was officially crowned the “Zucchini Queen” for the day.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Zucchini: Choose firm, glossy zucchinis; they should feel heavy for their size to ensure freshness.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A splash adds richness; choose high-quality oil for maximum flavor.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for whole bulbs if possible; freshly minced garlic will elevate the dish immensely.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley work wonders here; select vibrant herbs for optimal taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors; use sea salt for added crunch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Garlic and Herbs
Prepare Your Zucchini: Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water. Slice them lengthwise into half-inch thick pieces — think of them as mini boats ready for flavor adventure.
Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined. This fragrant mixture will infuse every bite with delightful garlicky goodness.
Coat the Zucchini: Place zucchini slices in a large bowl and drizzle your marinade over them. Toss gently until each piece is generously coated — imagine giving your zucchini a spa treatment!
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (around 400°F or 200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking — nobody wants sad zucchini stuck to the grill!
Grill Until Perfectly Charred: Arrange zucchini on the grill in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until you see beautiful char marks and they become tender yet still hold their shape.
Serve and Enjoy!: Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired; watch how everyone dives in like it’s the last slice of pizza at a party!
Now you’re ready to impress not only yourself but also anyone lucky enough to share this dish with you!
You Must Know
- Grilled zucchini with garlic and herbs is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in veggies
- The vibrant colors make your plate pop, and the aroma?
- Oh, it’s like summer kissed your kitchen
- Perfect for barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing zucchini evenly for uniform cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then place zucchini slices on the grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until tender and charred.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Swap basil for dill or add a sprinkle of feta cheese after grilling for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, sauté quickly in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect grilled zucchini, always slice with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking
- Marinating ahead of time enhances flavors significantly
- Don’t forget to let them cool slightly before serving; it makes them easier to handle!
Sharing grilled zucchini with my friends during a summer BBQ was priceless; their smiles said it all when they devoured seconds!
FAQ
What type of zucchini is best for grilling?
Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture and flavor on the grill.
Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers and eggplant pair beautifully with garlic and herbs.
How do I prevent zucchini from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on them while grilling; aim for tender-crisp.
Grilled Zucchini with Garlic and Herbs
Grilled zucchini with garlic and herbs is a delightful summer dish that brings vibrant flavors and a burst of color to your table. Tender zucchini slices are grilled to perfection, infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both healthy and irresistible. Perfect as a side or main dish, this recipe will elevate your barbecues and impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 400g)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Wash zucchinis thoroughly and slice them lengthwise into half-inch thick pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Place zucchini in a large bowl and drizzle the marinade over them. Toss gently to coat.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F or 200°C) and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill zucchini slices for 4-5 minutes on each side until charred and tender yet firm.
- Remove from the grill, let cool slightly, then serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini slice (40g)
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For an extra twist, try using dill instead of basil or sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top after grilling. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat by sautéing briefly on medium heat.
