Grilled zucchini with parmesan is a fresh and tasty dish! The zucchinis are sliced, grilled to perfection, and topped with melted parmesan cheese that makes each bite irresistible.
Seriously, who knew vegetables could be this fun? I love serving this dish at barbecues—it’s a hit, and even the kids forget they’re eating their veggies. So simple and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish because they hold their shape well when grilled. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or eggplant; they’ll provide a similar texture and flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crispy finish, but regular breadcrumbs can work too. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using fresh grated Parmesan for its rich flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, aged Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Olive Oil: This helps with grilling and flavor, but avocado oil is a healthy substitute with a higher smoke point, making it great for grilling.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Without Overcooking It?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky since it cooks quickly. The key is to prep them correctly and keep an eye on the grill time. When you scoop out some flesh, it allows the filling to shine while keeping the zucchini tender. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill so it’s hot enough to get nice grill marks.
- Make sure not to scoop too deep when hollowing out the zucchini; leave enough of the shell for support.
- Grill on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Check for tenderness with a fork; it should pierce easily.
- If you’ll be using a grill pan, add a little more olive oil to prevent sticking.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or extra thyme, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 7-10 minutes to grill. Overall, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty option for a healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a grill pan on your stovetop, heat it there as well. This will get your grill nice and ready for the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This will make a flavorful topping for your zucchini!
3. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take the zucchini halves and place them cut side up on a cutting board. Using a spoon, gently scoop out a small amount of the flesh from the center, creating a little hollow space for the filling. Be sure to leave about 1/4 inch of the shell so the zucchini holds its shape.
4. Fill and Pack:
Now, take your breadcrumb mixture and spoon it into each hollowed zucchini half. Use the back of the spoon to press it down slightly, packing it in well.
5. Grill the Zucchini:
Lightly brush the cut sides of the zucchini with a little olive oil. Place them on the grill with the filling side facing up. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is nice and tender, and the topping is a golden brown color.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once grilled, carefully remove the zucchini from the grill and let them cool for a minute or two. If you like, sprinkle with some fresh parsley or more thyme for a decorative touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan on a plate, with some lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze the lemon juice over the zucchini just before eating for a refreshing burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Different Cheese for Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella for a creamy texture, feta for a tangy flavor, or even cheddar for a sharper taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the overall flavor profile, so choose one that complements your dish!
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can easily make this dish in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the zucchini on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and the tops are golden. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or a skillet over medium heat until heated through, as microwaving may make them soggy.
