This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a fantastic side dish! The zucchini gets perfectly tender while the cheese melts into savory goodness. It’s simple and quick to make!
I love how this dish adds color to my plate. Plus, the cheesy flavor is a crowd-pleaser—even for the veggie skeptics! 😄 Enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or pasta for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are key for this dish. You can swap them with yellow squash or any summer squash if you cannot find zucchinis. Just watch the cooking time, as different squashes can vary in tenderness.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are great for a crispy topping, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free bread crumbs for a similar effect!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice punch. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a vegan option that still gives a cheesy taste.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. However, if you’re out, any cooking oil like avocado or canola can do the job. Just stick to what you have on hand!
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky since they tend to get mushy if overcooked. Here’s how to get it just right!
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to ensure a good sear.
- Brush zucchini cut sides with olive oil; it helps prevent sticking and adds moisture.
- Don’t rush: grill cut side up for 6-8 minutes until tender, and the topping is golden brown—keep an eye on them!
Let them grill just until tender; you can always check by gently poking with a fork!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes to grill. So, in roughly 25 minutes, you’ll have a tasty and healthy side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures all the flavors come together beautifully when you grill the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so that each bite is packed with flavor!
3. Brush and Top the Zucchini:
Take your zucchini halves and brush the cut sides with olive oil. This helps to keep them from sticking to the grill. Then, generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cut sides of the zucchinis, pressing it down a bit so it sticks well.
4. Grill the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the zucchini halves on the grill, cut side up. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the topping looks golden brown and crisp.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the zucchini is grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delightful grilled zucchini!
Can I Use different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even mozzarella for a melty texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may change the overall flavor profile of the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also put them back on the grill for a few minutes for that fresh-off-the-grill taste!
Can I Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture a day ahead! Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to grill, simply brush the zucchini with olive oil and top with your prepped mixture for a quick and easy meal.
What if I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can easily make this dish in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until tender and the topping is golden brown. Enjoy that delicious flavor without the grill!
