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Grilled Zucchini with Goat Cheese, Basil and Honey

Grilled zucchini with goat cheese, basil and honey features charred 1/4-inch planks topped with creamy goat cheese, fresh basil, and a glossy honey drizzle. The quick grill time creates deep marks while keeping the centers tender and juicy.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

zucchini
  • 3 large zucchini Sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch planks.
marinade and seasoning
  • 3 tbsp olive oil Brush over zucchini planks (both sides).
  • 2 garlic Minced cloves.
  • 0.5 salt and black pepper To taste.
toppings
  • 4 oz goat cheese Crumbled.
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves Freshly torn or left whole.
  • 2 tbsp honey Drizzle over the finished zucchini.
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar Optional; drizzle with honey.
  • 0.25 tsp lemon zest For garnish.
  • 0.125 tsp red pepper flakes Optional; sprinkle to taste.

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet
  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Grill and season
  1. Mix olive oil and garlic, then brush the mixture over both sides of the zucchini planks and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high, then oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the zucchini for 3–4 minutes per side until deep grill marks form and the zucchini is tender.
Top and finish
  1. Arrange the hot grilled zucchini on a serving platter.
  2. Immediately crumble goat cheese over the hot zucchini so it softens slightly.
  3. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
  4. Drizzle honey (and balsamic vinegar if using) over everything, then finish with lemon zest and optional red pepper flakes.

Notes

Pro tip: Work fast when topping with goat cheese—the heat helps it turn creamy without needing extra melting time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days; reheat briefly on a hot grill pan or in a skillet for best texture. Freezing isn’t recommended because zucchini and goat cheese change texture. Dietary swap: for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based goat-style cheese for a similar creamy finish.