This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a fresh and tasty side dish. Just slice the zucchini, grill it until it’s tender, and sprinkle with cheesy goodness for a delightful finish!
You’ll love how simple this dish is to make, and it’s perfect for any meal. Serve it hot, and watch it disappear—my family can never get enough of this veggie treat! 🥒😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh medium zucchinis are best for this recipe. They’re tender and have a mild flavor. If zucchinis aren’t available, consider using yellow squash or eggplant.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs work too, or you can make your own by toasting old bread and grinding it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely savory touch. If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free option while still packing flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil not only adds flavor but helps with cooking too. You can use avocado oil or melted butter if needed. Both will work just fine!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for a punchy taste. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder is a viable substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling zucchini may seem simple, but it requires a bit of care. To enhance their flavor and texture, follow these tips:
- Prep the zucchini by cutting them in half lengthwise and scooping out some seeds. This creates space for the filling and prevents them from getting too mushy.
- Coat the cut sides with olive oil before grilling. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a nice char.
- Grill at medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want the tops golden and the zucchini tender, but not falling apart.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.
Don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to grill. You’ll have tasty grilled zucchini ready in no time—ideal for a quick side dish or a lovely veggie snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. It’s important to get it nice and warm so that the zucchini cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your medium zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out a bit of the seeds from the center to create space for your filling, but don’t scoop too much—just enough to make room!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined. This filling will add so much flavor to your zucchini!
4. Prepare the Zucchini for Grilling:
Brush the cut sides of each zucchini half with a little olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and add extra flavor. Then, press the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the hollowed-out part of each zucchini half—make sure it’s a nice, even layer!
5. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the stuffed zucchinis on the grill, cut side up. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchinis are tender and the topping is golden brown—just keep an eye on them!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done grilling, take the zucchinis off the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, garnished with lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of juice over the top. Enjoy your delightful grilled zucchini with Parmesan!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor. Alternatively, for a creamier option, try using mozzarella or a mix of cheeses, but keep in mind the topping may not get as crispy as with Parmesan.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can also make these stuffed zucchinis in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden. You may need to broil them for a few minutes at the end for extra crispiness on top!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or you can reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re adding larger pieces of vegetables, as they may require additional grilling time to cook through.
