This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a simple and tasty side dish. The zucchini becomes soft and smoky, topped with a sprinkle of salty cheese that makes it irresistible!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are essential here. If you can’t find them, you can use yellow squash or eggplant as alternatives. They both grill well and can carry the filling nicely.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely flavor and richness. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well for flavor. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute depending on your preference.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but for that same crispiness, try crushing some crackers or toasting some stale bread before using them.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but any oil like grapeseed or avocado will work too! Choose one that you prefer that has a high smoke point for grilling.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Without Them Getting Mushy?
Grilling zucchini is simple but requires a bit of care to avoid mushiness. First, start by cutting the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scooping out some flesh. This makes room for the tasty filling and allows the zucchini to absorb more flavor without getting too soft.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the stuffed zucchinis for about 15-20 minutes. Keep the lid closed to maintain the heat around them.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be tender but still hold their shape!
Don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright finish! Enjoy the crunch and flavor!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to grill, so you can have delicious grilled zucchini ready in about 30-35 minutes total. It’s quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will help cook the zucchinis evenly and give them a nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the flesh, creating a small cavity. Don’t throw away the scooped-out part; we’ll use it later!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the reserved zucchini flesh with grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Stuff the Zucchinis:
Spoon the cheesy mixture into the hollowed-out zucchinis, pressing it down a little to make sure it stays in. Make sure not to overfill them so the topping has room to cook perfectly!
5. Grill the Zucchinis:
Place the stuffed zucchinis on the grill with the filling facing up. Close the lid and grill for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchinis are tender and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take them off the grill and give them a nice squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top. Serve them warm with some extra lemon wedges on the side for a fresh kick. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini!
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses for Parmesan?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or mozzarella for a milder, creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can add a vibrant taste! You can double the amount of fresh thyme for a more intense flavor. Just chop it finely and mix it in as you would the dried thyme for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can sauté the stuffed zucchinis in a skillet over medium heat or bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and the topping is golden. Just cover them with foil for the first 15 minutes to help them cook through.
