This grilled zucchini with parmesan is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make! The zucchini gets nice and tender, while the cheese adds a yummy flavor.
It’s perfect for summer BBQs, and I love that it takes just minutes to prepare. Plus, you’ll feel great eating your veggies—but don’t tell the kids 😉!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are the star here! You can use yellow squash or even eggplant if you’re feeling adventurous. These alternatives offer similar textures and flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste. If you don’t have any on hand, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast works well for a vegan option.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add crunch, but feel free to swap in panko for an extra crispy topping. If breadcrumbs are hard to find, crushed crackers or even ground nuts can be great substitutes.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor while helping to crisp everything up. If you want a change, avocado oil or melted butter can also be used, enhancing the dish’s richness.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but if you have fresh thyme, it’s a great way to elevate the dish! Remember to double the amount of fresh herbs if using.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
Grilling zucchini so it stays firm and tasty can be tricky. The key is to prep your zucchinis correctly and control the cooking time.
- First, slice them lengthwise and scoop a bit of flesh out, creating a boat shape. This helps them hold the filling well without becoming mushy.
- Make sure the grill is hot before placing the zucchinis on it. A medium-high heat gives you the right sear and prevents the veggies from steaming.
- Watch the cooking time closely. Generally, around 8-10 minutes should do it, depending on how thick the zucchinis are.
Flip them only if necessary; the cut side should get a beautiful char without losing moisture! Enjoy your grilling!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (can be panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled zucchini dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 10 minutes to grill. In just 25 minutes, you’ll be able to enjoy a tasty and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your zucchinis will cook evenly and get a nice, grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis under cold water. Carefully slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create a boat-like shape in each half. Make sure not to cut through the skin; you want the zucchini to hold together!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir everything together until the breadcrumbs are well coated with the olive oil and the mixture is combined.
4. Add Lemon Juice:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the breadcrumb mixture and mix it thoroughly. This adds a lovely fresh flavor to your filling!
5. Fill the Zucchini:
Spoon the breadcrumb mixture into each zucchini half, pressing it down a bit so it holds together well. Make sure to fill them generously for maximum flavor!
6. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the filled zucchini halves on the preheated grill, cut-side up. Grill them for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the topping turns a lovely golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done grilling, carefully remove the zucchinis from the grill and let them cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle when you serve them.
8. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve your grilled zucchini with extra lemon wedges on the side for drizzling. Enjoy this tasty, cheesy treat with friends and family!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture. Just keep in mind that the melting point and flavor profile may vary with different cheeses.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can achieve similar results by using a grill pan on the stovetop or baking the zucchini in the oven. If using the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and place the filled zucchinis on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the zucchini is tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the topping crunchy!
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms with the breadcrumb mixture for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture and enhance their taste!
