Name: Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini (about 1 lb / 450 g); 1/4 cup butter, softened (60 g); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (25 g)

Imagine biting into luscious, smoky slices of grilled zucchini, delicately seasoned with a buttery garlic blend and crowned with a melted Parmesan finish. The Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini is not just an easy side dish; it’s a gastronomical experience that transforms the humble zucchini into a star at any meal. Perfectly blending flavors of nutty Parmesan with the aromatic garlic and fresh parsley, this recipe offers an enticing balance that encourages even the staunchest of vegetable critics to give it a try.

This dish is a culinary delight for those looking to add a healthy yet tasty side to their meal plans. The zucchini, rich in nutrients and low in calories, gets a flavor boost from the garlic butter, making it deliciously palatable without any guilt. Designed to appeal to cooks of all skill levels, it transforms basic ingredients into something extraordinary with minimal effort. And the best part? You can enjoy the perks of grilling without needing an outdoor space—ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

As an addition to your meal repertoire, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or a more formal occasion, the combination of flavors and straightforward preparation will make this zucchini dish a go-to choice for many. Ready to dive into this flavorful adventure? Let’s explore why the Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini deserves a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful: Combines the rich tastes of garlic, butter, and cheese with the fresh bite of zucchini.
Healthy: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from burgers to roasted chicken.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing to cook a superlative Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini involves a few simple steps to ensure your kitchen is grill-ready. Begin by setting up your grill to a medium-high heat, which will guarantee those sought-after char marks while allowing the zucchini to tenderize beautifully. Before grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking, ensuring you achieve the perfect grill lines on each slice.

For this recipe, you’ll need a sharp knife to slice your zucchini correctly. Cutting boards offer stability and ease, two essential aspects when preparing vegetables. To mix the garlic butter blend, a small bowl and a spoon or spatula will do just fine. While grilling, kitchen tongs can help in safely and efficiently flipping your zucchini slices without disrupting their delicate structure. If you have a grill basket, it can be incredibly handy to keep smaller pieces from falling through the grates, ensuring every piece grills evenly.

Ingredients

3 medium zucchini (about 1 lb / 450 g)
1/4 cup butter, softened (60 g)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (25 g)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high setting. Lightly oil the grill grates to ensure your zucchini doesn’t stick. This initial step sets the stage for perfectly grilled vegetables, giving you those desired grill marks and optimal flavor development.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Take each zucchini and cut it in half crosswise. Slice each half lengthwise to form long, even pieces. You should have a total of 18 long slices, creating the perfect grilling canvas. Ensure your slices are uniform for even cooking.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Mix

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to form a seasoned spread. This infusion is what elevates the zucchini from good to great, permeating each piece with flavorful richness.

Step 4: Preparing the Zucchini

Using a spoon or a brush, spread the garlic butter mixture generously over both sides of the zucchini slices. Follow this by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on one side of each slice. The blend of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a delectable crust once grilled.

Step 5: Grill the Zucchini

Carefully place the zucchini slices on the grill, cheese side up, perpendicularly across the grates. Grill for approximately 8 minutes, allowing each side to obtain that perfect tenderness accompanied by delightful grill marks. As the cheese melts into the zucchini, the flavors meld into a harmonious balance, making it a mouth-watering treat.

Variations

Protein: Add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory touch.
Vegetables: Try including sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Spices: Sprinkle a little red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper for a bit of heat.

Cooking Notes

For even grilling, make sure your zucchini slices are of consistent thickness.
Allow the grilled zucchini to cool slightly before serving; this helps in setting the crispy cheese crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled meats such as chicken or steak for a balanced, hearty meal.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a refreshing zing.

Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for varied flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
Protein: About 3 g per serving
Sodium: Approximately 150 mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try using Gruyere or Mozzarella for different flavors and textures.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, keeping the skin on contributes extra nutrients and a little texture.

Can these be made in advance?

While best served fresh, you can prepare them an hour in advance and keep warm in the oven.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Conclusion

The Garlic Butter & Parmesan Grilled Zucchini brings simplicity and flavor to your dinner table without fuss. Its delightful taste and easy preparation make it a winning side dish choice for any meal. Enjoy experimenting with variations and flavors, and feel free to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Tag your friends and encourage them to try this fantastic recipe—the love for good food is always worth spreading!