This grilled zucchini topped with crumbly feta and fresh basil is a treat! It’s light, tasty, and perfect for summer picnics or barbecues.
Plus, it’s so quick to make! Just slice the zucchini, grill it, and sprinkle on the feta and basil. I love serving it as a side—everyone asks for seconds! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are the star ingredient here. They’re tender and flavorful when grilled. You could also use yellow squash if zucchinis aren’t available. Both veggies absorb flavors well.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a nice tang. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try vegan feta or simply omit it for a lighter dish. Goat cheese is another good alternative for similar creaminess.
Olive Oil: This oil is essential for flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil instead. Each will provide a slightly different taste.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a bright touch. In colder months, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as strong. If basil isn’t on hand, parsley or oregano can work too.
Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch. Walnuts or pecans can be substituted if that’s what you have. Just toast them lightly for the best flavor. You can also skip them if you’re nut-sensitive.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be simple, but there are a few tricks to get it just right. The goal is tender slices with beautiful grill marks without being mushy.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.
- Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch rounds; thicker slices may take longer to cook.
- Coat zucchini in olive oil, salt, and pepper; this prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
- Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and have good marks; avoid flipping too soon.
Letting the zucchini rest before adding other ingredients helps maintain its texture. Enjoy your grilled veggies!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Feta And Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled zucchini dish will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a healthy side dish or a light main course.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your zucchini cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated. This will add flavor and help them grill nicely.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices directly onto the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see nice grill marks and the zucchini feels tender to the touch.
4. Combine and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the zucchini from the grill and transfer it to a large serving bowl. While they are still warm, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts (if you’re using them) over the zucchini.
5. Add Fresh Flavors:
Now, add the chopped basil and squeeze the juice of one lemon over everything. Gently toss the zucchini, feta, nuts, and basil to combine everything well. Taste and add a bit more salt and pepper if you think it’s needed.
6. Enjoy:
Your grilled zucchini is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm or at room temperature as a tasty side dish or a light meal. Enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have feta on hand, crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would work nicely. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, so choose a cheese that complements your taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or leave it out entirely. You can enhance the flavor by adding extra lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Can I Prep the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can slice the zucchini and toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will save you time on cooking day!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently on the grill or in a pan. Enjoy them cold in salads, too!
