Grilled zucchini with mint and feta is a delightful and healthy summer side dish. You'll love how it showcases zucchini's natural sweetness, pairing it with fresh, aromatic herbs and creamy cheese for a flavor-packed experience. Start by slicing zucchini into uniform planks, brushing them with olive oil, and grilling until charred. Then, sprinkle the grilled zucchini with crumbled feta and fresh mint. Drizzle with lemon juice to enhance the flavors and balance the richness. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and enjoy this versatile dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings. There's more to discover about this delicious recipe.
Key Takeaways
- Grilled zucchini is a healthy, flavorful side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the vegetable.
- The recipe calls for fresh, firm zucchini sliced lengthwise, brushed with olive oil, and grilled until charred.
- Grilled zucchini is enhanced with a topping of crumbled feta cheese and fresh mint leaves.
- Drizzling the dish with lemon juice helps balance the richness and elevates the flavors.
- This quick and easy recipe is versatile, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings.
History
Zucchini has a long and storied history, dating back to its origins in the Americas. This versatile summer squash was an important food crop for many indigenous communities, who cultivated and used it in a variety of dishes.
Over time, zucchini made its way to Europe and the Mediterranean, where it became a beloved ingredient in cuisines like Italian and Greek cooking.
Today, zucchini is enjoyed around the world for its mild flavor, delicate texture, and impressive nutritional profile. Whether you're grilling, roasting, or sautéing it, this veggie is a fantastic addition to any meal.
Its versatility makes it a staple in many home kitchens, and with the right seasoning, it can take on a wide range of flavors. As you prepare your grilled zucchini, keep in mind its rich history and the many cultures that have embraced this humble yet remarkable vegetable.
Recipe
Grilled zucchini is a delightful and healthy side dish that showcases the natural sweetness of this versatile vegetable. The grill adds a delicious smoky char that complements the tender zucchini perfectly.
Preparing this recipe is a simple yet rewarding process. The key is to select fresh, firm zucchini and use a hot grill to achieve the desired caramelized edges while maintaining a juicy, tender interior.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the seasoned zucchini slices on the preheated grill grates, ensuring they don't overlap. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the zucchini is tender and has grill marks.
To ensure the best results, be sure to use a hot grill and avoid overcrowding the zucchini slices. This will help the vegetables develop a delicious caramelized exterior without becoming soggy.
Serve the grilled zucchini immediately, as it's best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Cooking Steps
Start by slicing the zucchini lengthwise into planks.
Next, brush the zucchini planks generously with olive oil.
Then, grill the planks until they're nicely charred on both sides.
Step 1. Slice Zucchini Lengthwise Into Planks
To begin, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin, even planks. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to get the pieces uniform in thickness, about 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters. This will ensure the zucchini cooks evenly on the grill.
Try to make the slices long and wide, as you want them to have a nice surface area to pick up the grill marks and absorb the flavors.
When slicing, be careful to keep your fingers safely away from the blade. Gently guide the zucchini through the slicer, applying even pressure. If you're using a knife, slice the zucchini from one end to the other in long, steady strokes.
Lay the planks out in a single layer on a baking sheet or platter as you work. This makes it easy to season and grill them all at once. Take your time and slice each zucchini carefully for the best results.
Step 2. Brush Zucchini Planks With Olive Oil
Next, brush both sides of the zucchini planks with a light coating of olive oil. This will help the zucchini develop a delicious, golden-brown char when grilled.
Be sure to use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Lightly brush the oil over the entire surface of each plank, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
You don't want to drench the zucchini, just a light, even layer of oil. This will help the zucchini cook evenly and prevent sticking on the grill.
Once the planks are oiled, you're ready to move on to the next step of seasoning them with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
The olive oil will act as a tasty base for those flavors to cling to, creating a truly mouthwatering grilled zucchini dish.
Step 3. Grill Zucchini Planks Until Charred
Once the zucchini planks are coated in olive oil, you can begin grilling them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F.
Place the oil-brushed zucchini planks directly on the grill grates, making sure they're not overlapping. Let them sizzle and char for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you see grill marks and the zucchini becomes tender. Be careful not to let them overcook and become mushy.
As the zucchini grills, you'll notice the edges start to brown and crisp up. This is exactly what you want! The charred bits add wonderful smoky flavor.
Use tongs to flip the planks, being gentle to prevent them from breaking apart. Once both sides have those beautiful grill marks, transfer the zucchini to a platter.
They're now ready to be seasoned and served with the fresh mint and tangy feta cheese.
Step 4. Sprinkle With Feta and Mint
With the zucchini planks now perfectly grilled, it's time to add the finishing touches.
Grab a small bowl and crumble the feta cheese into it. You'll want about 1/4 cup of crumbled feta for this recipe.
Next, chop up a handful of fresh mint leaves – you'll need around 2 tablespoons.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta and chopped mint evenly over the grilled zucchini planks. The salty, tangy feta and the bright, herbaceous mint will create a wonderfully flavorful pairing with the charred zucchini.
Feel free to add a light drizzle of olive oil over the top as well, to help the flavors meld together.
Take a moment to admire your work – the vibrant green of the zucchini, the creamy white of the feta, and the pops of fresh mint create a visually appealing dish.
Now it's time to dig in and enjoy the delicious results of your grilling efforts!
Step 5. Drizzle With Lemon Juice
To finish off the dish, drizzle a light coating of fresh lemon juice over the grilled zucchini planks. The tart and bright flavor of the lemon will perfectly complement the smoky, charred notes of the zucchini.
Use a small spoon or fork to drizzle the juice evenly across the surface of the grilled zucchini pieces. Be sure to get the lemon juice over every nook and cranny for maximum flavor coverage.
The acidity of the lemon will also help to balance out the richness of the feta cheese, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Don't be afraid to be generous with the lemon juice – it will only enhance the overall flavors of the dish.
Once you've drizzled on the lemon, give the zucchini a gentle toss to ensure every piece is coated. Now you're ready to serve and enjoy your flavorful grilled zucchini with mint and feta!
Final Thoughts
After trying this grilled zucchini recipe, you'll appreciate how quickly and easily it comes together.
The simple combination of fresh mint, crumbled feta, and a squeeze of lemon juice creates a flavor-packed dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings.
The versatility of this recipe is another bonus – you can serve it as a side, use it as a topping for grilled meats or fish, or even incorporate it into salads or wraps.
And the best part? Grilled zucchini is a healthy and low-calorie option that doesn't sacrifice taste.
So the next time you're looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious way to enjoy summer's bounty, be sure to give this grilled zucchini recipe a try.
You'll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Herbs Instead of Mint?
You can certainly use other herbs instead of mint. Basil, dill, parsley, or even a combination would all work well, adding their own unique flavors to the dish. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite herb pairing.
How Long Can the Grilled Zucchini Be Stored?
The grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing, and it'll stay fresh and flavorful during that time.
Can I Grill the Zucchini in Advance?
You can definitely grill the zucchini in advance. It'll keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container. This way, you can easily reheat or incorporate it into other dishes.
How Do I Prevent the Zucchini From Becoming Soggy?
To prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy, you should grill it just before serving. Letting the zucchini sit after grilling can make it release moisture and turn soggy. Grill the zucchini right before you plan to enjoy it for the best texture.
Can I Substitute Feta Cheese With Other Types?
You can substitute feta cheese with other types like goat cheese, crumbled blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella. These alternatives will provide a similar tangy and creamy texture to the dish.
Ethan’s passion for farm-to-table cooking comes through in every dish he creates. He focuses on fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, crafting seasonal recipes that celebrate the natural flavors of the earth. Based in California, Ethan’s modern approach to cooking is all about sustainability and simplicity.
