Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

Grilled zucchini, oh, how I love thee! This recipe for Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles has become an absolute staple in our household, especially during the warmer months. From the first bite, the smoky char of the perfectly grilled zucchini, coupled with the salty tang of feta and a bright burst of lemon, was a revelation. Even my zucchini-skeptical kids devoured it, asking for seconds – a true testament to its deliciousness. It’s become our go-to side dish for barbecues, weeknight dinners, and even elegant enough to serve at a summer gathering. Honestly, if you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful way to enjoy zucchini, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to experience the same joy we do every time we fire up the grill and make this delightful dish.

Ingredients for Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

• Zucchini: 4 medium-sized zucchini, choose firm zucchini with smooth skin for the best grilling results.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, essential for both flavor and preventing the zucchini from sticking to the grill.
• Lemon: 1 large lemon, you’ll need both the zest and juice to brighten the dish and complement the feta.
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced, adds a savory depth to the marinade and grilled zucchini.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, provides a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that pairs perfectly with zucchini and feta.
• Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon dried thyme, complements the oregano and adds another layer of herbaceousness.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste, enhances all the flavors and seasons the zucchini.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, adds a subtle spice and balances the saltiness.
• Feta Cheese: 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled, provides a salty, tangy, and creamy contrast to the grilled zucchini. Look for block feta in brine for the best flavor and texture.
• Fresh Mint (optional): 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped, adds a refreshing and aromatic garnish that elevates the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, adds a touch of heat for those who like a little spice.

Instructions for Perfect Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off the ends of each zucchini. You can choose to slice the zucchini in a few different ways depending on your preference. For grilling, thicker slices are generally better as they are less likely to fall through the grates and hold up better to the heat. You can slice them lengthwise into planks about ½ inch thick. Alternatively, you can cut them into rounds, also about ½ inch thick. Lengthwise planks tend to be easier to grill and look more elegant, but rounds are equally delicious and cook slightly faster. Place the sliced zucchini in a large bowl.
2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all the ingredients are well combined and emulsified. The olive oil should bind with the lemon juice to create a flavorful and aromatic marinade. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference. The lemon juice will help to tenderize the zucchini slightly and the garlic and herbs will infuse it with delicious flavor while grilling.
3. Marinate the Zucchini: Pour the marinade over the sliced zucchini in the bowl. Gently toss the zucchini slices to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Use your hands or tongs to make sure every piece gets a good coating. Let the zucchini marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a more intense flavor. Marinating for longer than 30 minutes is generally not recommended as the lemon juice can start to break down the zucchini and make it too soft before grilling. While the zucchini marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill grates to be hot enough to create nice char marks but not so hot that the zucchini burns before it cooks through.
4. Prepare the Grill: Clean your grill grates thoroughly using a grill brush. This is important to prevent the zucchini from sticking and to ensure clean, even grilling. Once the grates are clean, lightly oil them with olive oil. You can use a paper towel dipped in olive oil and tongs to carefully wipe the grates. This will further help prevent sticking and make it easier to flip the zucchini.
5. Grill the Zucchini: Carefully place the marinated zucchini slices directly onto the preheated and oiled grill grates in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the grill as this can lower the temperature and cause the zucchini to steam instead of grill properly. Grill the zucchini for about 3-4 minutes per side for planks, and 2-3 minutes per side for rounds, or until they are tender-crisp and have beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them and adjust the grilling time as needed depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of your zucchini slices. You are looking for them to be slightly softened and have distinct char lines.
6. Flip and Grill the Other Side: Using tongs, carefully flip each zucchini slice and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes (or 2-3 minutes for rounds), until they are cooked through and have grill marks on both sides. The zucchini should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy. If you are unsure if they are done, you can pierce a slice with a fork; it should go through easily but not be completely soft.
7. Arrange and Crumble: Once the zucchini is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and arrange it on a serving platter. While the zucchini is still warm, crumble the feta cheese generously over the top. The warmth of the zucchini will slightly soften the feta, making it even more delicious.
8. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish the grilled zucchini with fresh chopped mint and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the zucchini is still warm and the feta is soft and creamy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the grill, but can also be served at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts for Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles (per serving)

Servings: 4

Calories per serving: Approximately 180 kcal

• Total Fat: 14g (This includes healthy fats from olive oil and feta)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (Primarily from feta cheese)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time for Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

Total Preparation Time: 25 minutes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (This includes washing and slicing the zucchini, mincing garlic, zesting and juicing lemon, and making the marinade.)
• Marinating Time: 15-30 minutes (Allowing the zucchini to marinate enhances the flavor.)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (Grilling the zucchini on a medium-high heat grill.)

This recipe is incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a last-minute addition to a barbecue. The majority of the time is passive marinating time, allowing you to prepare other parts of your meal or simply relax while the flavors develop.

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

This versatile dish can be served in a variety of ways, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Alongside Grilled Meats: Perfectly complements grilled chicken, steak, fish, or lamb. The fresh flavors of the zucchini and feta cut through the richness of grilled meats.
  • With Vegetarian Mains: Pairs wonderfully with vegetarian options like grilled halloumi, veggie burgers, or lentil patties.
  • Part of a Mediterranean Feast: Include it in a Mediterranean-inspired spread with hummus, pita bread, olives, and a Greek salad.
  • With Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside a light pasta dish with pesto or lemon and herbs for a complete and balanced meal.
• As an Appetizer:
  • On Crostini: Top toasted baguette slices or crostini with the grilled zucchini and feta for a delicious and elegant appetizer.
  • In Salads: Add grilled zucchini and feta to a mixed green salad or a grain salad for extra flavor and texture.
  • As part of an Antipasto Platter: Include it on an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables.
• Other Serving Ideas:
  • In Bowls: Add grilled zucchini and feta to grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or rice, along with other roasted vegetables and a protein source.
  • In Wraps or Pitas: Use grilled zucchini and feta as a filling for wraps or pita pockets with hummus or tzatziki sauce.
  • Cold Salad: While best served warm, it can also be enjoyed as a cold salad the next day, though the zucchini texture will be slightly softer.

Additional Tips for the Best Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

1. Choose the Right Zucchini: Select zucchini that are firm and feel heavy for their size. Avoid zucchini that are soft or have blemishes. Smaller to medium-sized zucchini tend to be less watery and have better flavor.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Grilling zucchini in batches, without overcrowding the grill, is crucial for achieving proper char marks and preventing steaming. Overcrowding lowers the grill temperature and results in soggy zucchini.
3. Control the Heat: Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling zucchini. If the heat is too high, the zucchini can burn on the outside before it cooks through. If it’s too low, it might become mushy. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks.
4. Experiment with Herbs: While oregano and thyme are classic Mediterranean herbs, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley in the marinade. Fresh herbs can also be used in the marinade or as a garnish for a brighter flavor.
5. Add a Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: For a touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle a balsamic glaze over the grilled zucchini and feta before serving. This complements the salty feta and smoky zucchini beautifully.
6. Consider Different Cheeses: While feta is traditional and delicious, you can also try other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its unique taste and texture to the dish.
7. Spice it Up: If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or garnish with a sprinkle of chili oil for an extra kick. You can also use a pinch of smoked paprika in the marinade for a smoky depth of flavor.
8. Make Ahead Tips: You can prepare the marinade and slice the zucchini up to a few hours ahead of time. Store the marinated zucchini in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to grill the zucchini just before serving for the best texture. Grilled zucchini is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, though the texture may soften slightly.

FAQ about Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles

Q1: Can I grill zucchini without it getting soggy?

A: Yes, absolutely! The key to preventing soggy grilled zucchini is to use medium-high heat, avoid overcrowding the grill, and don’t overcook it. Grilling at a higher heat helps to quickly sear the outside, creating those desirable grill marks while keeping the inside tender-crisp. Marinating the zucchini in olive oil also helps to create a barrier and prevent it from absorbing too much moisture during grilling. Slicing the zucchini into thicker pieces (about ½ inch thick) also helps it hold its shape better on the grill. Finally, be sure to pat the zucchini dry with paper towels after washing to remove excess surface moisture before marinating and grilling.

Q2: What is the best way to season grilled zucchini?

A: A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme is fantastic for grilled zucchini. Salt and pepper are essential to enhance the flavors. You can also experiment with other seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning. Don’t be afraid to taste your marinade and adjust the seasonings to your liking before marinating the zucchini. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or mint can also be added to the marinade or used as a garnish after grilling for a brighter flavor.

Q3: Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

A: Yes, you can definitely use a grill pan on your stovetop if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or if the weather isn’t cooperating. Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Lightly brush the pan with olive oil and then grill the zucchini slices as you would on an outdoor grill. Grill pans can still create nice grill marks and provide a similar smoky flavor, although the outdoor grill often imparts a more intense smoky char. Ensure your grill pan is well ventilated as it can produce smoke indoors.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While grilled zucchini is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can make the marinade and slice the zucchini up to a few hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also marinate the zucchini ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2-3 hours. However, it’s recommended to grill the zucchini just before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you need to make it further in advance, you can grill the zucchini and then reheat it gently before serving, but be aware that the texture may be slightly softer.

Q5: What are some variations to this recipe?

A: There are many delicious variations you can try! You can use different herbs in the marinade, such as rosemary, basil, or dill. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy or smoky kick. Experiment with different cheeses instead of feta, like goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even shaved Parmesan. For a vegan version, skip the feta cheese and add toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for texture. You can also add other grilled vegetables to the platter, such as bell peppers, onions, or eggplant, for a more substantial grilled vegetable dish.

Q6: How do I store leftover grilled zucchini with feta?

A: Store leftover grilled zucchini with feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The zucchini will be softer the next day, but it will still be flavorful. It’s best to consume leftovers cold or at room temperature, as reheating can make the zucchini even softer. You can add leftover grilled zucchini to salads, grain bowls, or wraps for lunch the next day.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?

A: Yes, this recipe for Grilled Zucchini with Feta Crumbles is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, and the recipe contains no meat or animal-based broth, making it suitable for vegetarians. It’s a healthy and flavorful option for those following gluten-free or vegetarian diets, or anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals.

Q8: Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

A: Absolutely! Yellow squash, also known as summer squash, is very similar to zucchini and can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Yellow squash has a slightly sweeter flavor than zucchini, but it grills beautifully and pairs perfectly with feta and the lemon-herb marinade. You can even use a mix of zucchini and yellow squash for a colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable platter. The grilling time and method will be the same for both zucchini and yellow squash.

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