Description
This grilled zucchini recipe features tender, charred ribbons bursting with bright citrus and fragrant herbs. It’s an easy and healthy side dish, perfect for busy families.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs zucchini, medium, firm
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided, extra virgin or avocado oil
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 0.25 cup fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, dill, or mint) or 1 tsp dried Italian herb blend
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Zucchini: Wash and trim zucchini ends. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons (about 0.125 inch (3mm) thick). Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Marinate Ribbons: In a medium bowl, toss zucchini ribbons with 1 Tbsp (15ml) olive oil, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Allow them to sit briefly while the grill heats to infuse flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (approx. 400°F (200°C)). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If ribbons look dry, a quick spritz of oil spray helps.
- Grill Ribbons: Lay zucchini ribbons in a single layer on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender-crisp with visible char marks. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which steams rather than grills.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer grilled zucchini ribbons to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining 1 Tbsp (15ml) olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
Consider using organic zucchini and cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor and nutrition. If fresh herbs are unavailable, 1 tsp dried Italian herb blend can be substituted. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure proper charring, not steaming.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 60 calories
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: easy, healthy, side dish, grilled zucchini, lemon, herbs, weeknight meal, family-friendly, quick recipe, low carb
