This grilled zucchini is light and tasty, topped with cheesy parmesan. It’s a wonderful side dish that brings out the best in summer veggies!
Just a little olive oil and some herbs can make this dish shine. Honestly, I could eat this every day—it’s that good! 🍽️
Making this is super easy. I just slice the zucchini, toss it on the grill, sprinkle parmesan, and enjoy! Perfect for barbecues or quick dinners. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchini works best for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, try yellow squash or eggplant as tasty alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste. For a different flavor, Pecorino Romano works great, too.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a nice crispy topping. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs are fine, but they won’t be as crunchy. You can also make your own by toasting regular bread until golden.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can use avocado oil instead, which also has a nice taste.
Thyme: While dried thyme is convenient, fresh thyme has a brighter flavor. If you like other herbs, try basil or oregano for a different twist!
How Do I Grill Zucchini So It’s Perfectly Tender Yet Crispy?
Getting zucchini just right on the grill is key. Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. The even heat will cook the zucchini well without burning.
- Slice zucchini lengthwise and scoop out some flesh to create a cavity. This helps hold the filling better.
- Pack the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the zucchini halves. This ensures it stays in place while grilling.
- Grill cut-side up for 10-15 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the topping is golden.
Letting the zucchini cool slightly after grilling makes it easier to handle. Enjoy with a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing! It enhances the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
For the Topping:
- 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
For Serving:
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 10-15 minutes to grill, making it a quick and tasty side dish or appetizer that you can whip up in around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is key to getting that perfect grilled flavor and texture on your zucchini!
2. Prep the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice each one in half lengthwise, being careful not to slice all the way through. Use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the inside flesh, creating a little cavity for the filling. This makes room for all that cheesy goodness!
3. Make the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed. This tasty topping will give your zucchini an amazing crunch!
4. Fill the Zucchini:
Take your breadcrumb and cheese mixture and spoon it into the hollowed-out zucchini halves. Press down gently with the back of your spoon to pack the filling in well.
5. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the filled zucchini halves on the grill with the cut side facing up. Grill them for about 10 to 15 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the zucchini is done grilling, carefully remove them from the grill. Serve them hot with some lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top adds a delightful zing!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a lovely flavor, you can use other cheeses like pecorino romano, gouda, or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary, so choose one that you enjoy!
What if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko in a 1:1 ratio. If you have stale bread, you can make your own breadcrumbs by toasting it lightly and then processing it in a food processor until crumbly.
How Can I Make It Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative, and replace the breadcrumbs with a vegan-friendly option. Olive oil is already vegan, so you’ll be set with a few simple swaps!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
