This grilled zucchini dish is a fresh and tasty treat! With tender zucchini, crumbly feta cheese, and fragrant basil, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal.
Honestly, the combination of warm zucchini and cool feta is just heavenly. I often make extra just to snack on! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up when friends drop by.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Medium zucchinis are ideal for grilling because they have a nice texture. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant for a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty and creamy touch. If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or ricotta as a substitute. They provide a similar creaminess but with a different taste.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a beautiful aroma and freshness. If you can’t find fresh basil, consider using dried basil (but use less, about a teaspoon) or other herbs like parsley or mint for a twist.
Pine Nuts: They’re great for a crunchy texture. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds or skip them altogether. Toasted walnuts could also be a delicious alternative!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. For a different flavor, avocado oil can be an excellent substitute, offering a similarly high smoke point.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini is simple, but there are a few tips to make it perfect. First, make sure your grill is preheated. This helps achieve those nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Slice zucchini into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Ensure they are well coated for flavor.
- Grill directly on the grates or use a grill basket. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Avoid overcooking to keep them from becoming mushy.
Serving them warm with the feta, basil, and pine nuts makes the dish come together beautifully, so don’t wait too long to serve!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Feta And Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook on the grill. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and tasty side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to cook the zucchini. This will give your zucchini those beautiful grill marks and a delicious flavor!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced zucchini rounds, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until the zucchini is evenly coated with olive oil and seasoning. This step is important for bringing out the best flavors when grilling.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices directly on the grill or use a grill basket if you have one. Grill the zucchini for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the zucchini to be tender and have nice grill marks. If it seems too firm, leave it on for another minute or so.
4. Add the Toppings:
Once your zucchini is perfectly grilled, carefully take it off the grill and move it to a serving bowl. While it’s still warm, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, and toasted pine nuts on top. The warmth will help melt the cheese just a bit, making it even tastier!
5. Finishing Touches:
Finally, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the zucchini and sprinkle it all with a little more salt and pepper if you like. Gently toss everything together so the flavors mix nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled zucchini right away, garnished with lemon wedges if you’d like. It’s a fresh and delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different vegetables may grill faster or slower. Cut them into similar thickness for even cooking!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the zucchini and toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Grill it right before serving for the best taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil to keep them moist.
What’s a Good Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. For a lactose-free option, consider crumbled firm tofu seasoned with a bit of lemon juice and salt!
