This grilled zucchini dish is fresh and tasty, topped with creamy feta and aromatic basil. It’s a perfect side for summer or a light snack that makes veggies shine!
Add a sprinkle of salt and watch the flavors come alive! I love to serve it warm, drizzled with a bit of olive oil. It’s so easy to make, you’ll want to grill it every week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchinis are ideal for grilling. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash as a tasty alternative. It has a similar texture and flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu mixed with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic punch. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s stronger. For more flavor, try fresh parsley or oregano.
Pine Nuts: These add a lovely crunch. If you can’t find them, chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds are good substitutes. Toasting enhances their flavor for any option you choose!
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon brightens the dish. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice can be a refreshing substitute, though the flavor will shift slightly.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but the right technique makes all the difference! Start by slicing the zucchini uniformly. This helps them cook evenly. Remember to coat them well with olive oil, as it prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for those perfect grill marks.
- Grill the slices for 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t overcrowd the grill!
- Once you see those lovely grill marks, they’re ready to be taken off. They should be tender but not mushy.
Your zucchini will be a hit with perfect grill lines and a slightly smoky flavor!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Feta and Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
Optional:
- Additional fresh basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Zucchini with Feta and Basil takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grilling, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and simple for a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by getting your grill ready—preheat it to medium-high heat. This will help the zucchini cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the pieces are nicely coated with the oil and seasoning. This adds flavor and helps them grill perfectly!
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices in a single layer on the grill grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until you see grill marks and the zucchini is tender. Don’t crowd the grill; you may need to do this in batches.
4. Transfer to Serving Bowl:
Once the zucchini is cooked, take it off the grill and transfer it to a serving bowl. The warm zucchini will be a lovely base for all the delicious toppings.
5. Add Toppings:
While the zucchini is still warm, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and torn basil leaves over the top. This will allow the cheese to soften slightly and meld with the zucchini for extra flavor!
6. Toast the Pine Nuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly! Once toasted, add them to the zucchini mix.
7. Add Lemon Flavor:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle in the lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. The citrus will brighten up the dish beautifully.
8. Toss and Adjust Seasoning:
Gently toss everything together to combine. Taste a piece and add more salt and pepper if needed to make it just right for you!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your grilled zucchini warm or at room temperature, and feel free to garnish with additional fresh basil if you want. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables for Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or even asparagus in place of zucchini. Just adjust the grilling time slightly, as different vegetables may cook at varied rates—look for tenderness and grill marks.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat or enjoy them cold in salads for a refreshing twist!
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese or ricotta can work well for a creamy texture. Vegan cheese alternatives are also available if you’re avoiding dairy—opt for one that crumbles nicely for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the zucchini ahead and prepare the feta, basil, and pine nuts separately. Combine everything when ready to serve to keep the zucchini fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.
