Looking for a way to cook summer squash that’s different? Then this grilled zucchini recipe is just what you need. Grilled zucchini is healthy, filling, easy to prepare, and one of our favorite side dishes. Serve this grilled veggie with protein. It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or ribs. It is also delicious with Parmesan pasta, lasagna, and fettuccine alfredo.
How to make Grilled Zucchini
Start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat or around 450 degrees. Lightly oil the grill grate with a little vegetable oil. Slice the zucchini into quarters lengthwise. Then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasonings, salt, and pepper. Place the zucchini on the grill, flesh side down, in a single layer to get those tasty charred grill marks. Grill for about 3-4 minutes and then flip with tongs to skin side down and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. For best results, serve promptly.
Recipe notes and helpful tips
- Quarter the zucchini lengthwise instead of slicing. This baton shape will help it get crisp tender, and lightly charred without getting soggy.
- Use whatever seasoning and dried herbs you like and have on hand. Seasoned salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, and onion powder make a great combination. I personally love my homemade creole seasoning on the zucchini. It gives it a ton of flavor without being overpowering.
- After grilling, sprinkle with just a little bit of fresh Parmesan cheese for a little more flavor and fresh herbs if you have them. For optimum taste, use parsley, cilantro, basil, and thyme.
- This recipe also works for yellow squash.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for short intervals at a reduced power to keep from overcooking it. Or place on a baking sheet and reheat at 350 degrees F until warm. But keep in mind that this dish is best served promptly while it is at its best texture and temperature.
Storage Tips for Grilled Zucchini
Store grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at short intervals at a reduced power just until warm to keep from overcooking it.
I do not recommend freezing it to enjoy it as it was originally intended. However, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer bag for up to 3 months to puree and use in soups and sauces.
More zucchini recipes to try!
Print
Easy Grilled Zucchini Recipe
Grilled Zucchini is a quick, easy, healthy, and flavorful summer side dish for grilled chicken, shrimp, burgers, and brats.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: side dish
- Method: grill
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 medium zucchini quartered lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning or creole seasoning (see notes)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
- Chopped fresh Italian parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to 450 degrees. Lightly oil the grill grate with a little vegetable oil.
- Cut the zucchini into quarters lengthwise. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with the seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Place the zucchini spears on the grill flesh side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes and then flip skin side down. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and if desired fresh herbs. For best results serve promptly.
Notes
- Quarter the zucchini lengthwise instead of slicing. This baton shape will help it get crisp tender and lightly charred without getting soggy.
- Use whatever seasoning you like and have on hand. Seasoned salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, and onion powder make a great combination. I personally love my homemade creole seasoning on the zucchini. It gives it a ton of flavor without being overpowering.
- After grilling sprinkle with just a little bit of fresh Parmesan cheese for a little more flavor and fresh herbs if you have them. For optimum taste use parsley, cilantro, basil, and thyme.
- This recipe also works for yellow squash.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for short intervals at a reduced power to keep from overcooking it. Or place on a baking sheet and reheat at 350 degrees F until warm. But keep in mind that this dish is best served promptly while it is at it’s best texture and temperature.
Keywords: how to grill zucchini, how to cook zucchini on the grill, grilled zucchini recipe
On the hunt for more delicious recipes? Follow Small Town Woman on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
https://www.smalltownwoman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Beth-1.pdf
Elizabeth
Your pictures are fabulous. They have me craving zucchini!! LOL. Thanks for all the extra details.
★★★★★
Kushigalu
This grilled zucchini was amazingly delicious. Thanks for sharing.
★★★★★
Sara
Love grilling season for recipes just like this one! Easy, flavorful and perfectly crispy! The best way to enjoy zucchini, indeed!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
I could not agree more!
Vicky
The caramelizing on these is perfect. I love the fact that I can make these on the grill as I cook up the rest of the meal. A perfect side that won’t make me feel guilty!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
I agree 100%, Vicky!
Elizabeth
Whenever zucchini and yellow squash hit the farmers markets in summer I always get so excited! I’ve never tried grilling it before, so I’m definitely going to give this recipe a try. I’m looking forward to experimenting with different seasoning blends to see which I like best. Thanks for sharing!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
The pleasure is all mine, Elizabeth!
Juliane
Can’t resist this! So tasty and easy to make!
★★★★★
Talya Stone
I usually make these with Italian seasoning but going to try it with creole next time – I would have never thought of that pairing!
Beth Pierce
You should try it! It is so delicious!
Catalina
I can’t resist to this delicious side dish! Zucchinis are my favorite!
★★★★★
Cam
I love grilling veggies in the summer so of course I made this to go with my dinner last night. It was so easy to make and delicious! I put extra parmesan cheese on mine and served it with grilled chicken.
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks so much Cam. I am happy that you enjoyed it!
Jess
This is the BEST way to eat zucchini. So good.
★★★★★
Janessa
Yum, this was such a good way to use some extra zucchini I had around for dinner last night! It paired perfectly with our grilled pork.
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks Janessa! I am glad that you liked it!
Sandra
I love zucchini and this recipe is definitely a must try! Surprisingly so delicious!
★★★★★
Kathleen
Easy, quick and a perfect side dish for BBQ Season. Definitely making this for my family.
★★★★★
Erin | Dinners, Dishes and Dessert
Sounds really good! I’d love to make this!
Krystle
Such an easy recipe and perfect for using up zucchini from the garden. Will make again
★★★★★