This grilled zucchini is a summer delight! The soft, smoky zucchini pairs beautifully with crumbly feta and fresh basil, making it both tasty and colorful on your plate.
You’ll love how easy this dish is to whip up. Just slice, grill, sprinkle some feta, and toss in basil. It’s a perfect side, or you can enjoy it as a light snack! Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are best for grilling, giving a nice texture. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash works equally well and brings a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. You could use avocado oil for a higher smoke point or canola oil as an alternative.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a salty, creamy element. If you need a dairy-free option, try vegan feta or crumble some tofu with a bit of salt and lemon juice for flavor.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch. If it’s not available, consider using dried Italian herbs or parsley for a different twist.
Pine Nuts: Toasted for crunch, but walnuts or almonds can also be substituted. If nuts aren’t an option, seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds work well too.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky if you don’t pay attention to a few key things. Start by making sure your grill is preheated well; this helps to get nice grill marks and avoids sticking.
- Cut zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds for even cooking. Thicker slices may take longer, and thinner may burn.
- Coat the zucchini evenly with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for a nice char to show it’s cooked without becoming mushy.
Letting the zucchini rest a bit after grilling allows flavors to meld nicely. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Feta And Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Grilled Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Optional: additional basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a fresh and flavorful dish 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 zucchini will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the slices are well coated so they grill beautifully.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Carefully place the zucchini slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. They should be tender and have nice grill marks when they’re ready. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and set aside.
4. Mix with Lemon Juice:
In a serving bowl, combine the grilled zucchini with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss them around to make sure the zucchini is coated and flavorful.
5. Add the Toppings:
Now it’s time to make it delicious! Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, and toasted pine nuts on top of the zucchini. Gently mix everything together so that the flavors blend beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste! If you think it needs a little more seasoning, feel free to add salt or pepper according to your preference.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish your grilled zucchini with extra basil leaves for an added pop of color. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your tasty Grilled Zucchini with Feta and Basil!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, mozzarella or even a vegan cheese can work well for a milder taste. Just crumble or slice the cheese as needed and mix it in as you would with feta!
What If I Don’t Have Pine Nuts?
No problem! You can replace pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds can also offer a nice crunch if you prefer a nut-free option. Just make sure to toast them beforehand for added flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the zucchini ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, toss with the other ingredients. Just remember that the zucchini may lose some of its crunch when reheated, so serve it at room temperature for the best texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or serve cold as a salad. The flavors actually get better after a day!
