This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a tasty and simple side dish! The zucchini gets tender and smokey while the cheese melts on top, adding a delicious flavor.
It’s also a great way to use up extra veggies. I love serving this with our favorite meals, and sometimes I sneak a bite before it’s even on the table—who can resist?😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchini work best for grilling because they hold together while cooking. If you can’t find zucchini, try using yellow squash or eggplant for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, but you might miss some of that crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. You could substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley really brightens this dish. If you don’t have parsley, consider using basil or cilantro for a different twist.
How Do You Grill Zucchini Without It Getting Soggy?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but with the right steps, you can achieve perfectly grilled and flavorful results. The key is to scoop out some of the flesh, which reduces moisture and allows for a better texture.
- First, always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking.
- After halving the zucchini, scoop out some flesh to create a little bowl. This helps keep the topping mixture from making it too soggy.
- Brush the insides with olive oil and season well to lock in flavor.
- Make sure the filling is pressed down to form a compact layer before grilling.
Remember, keep an eye on the grill for that perfect golden topping! Enjoy!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll be looking at a quick and tasty 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a lovely summer side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your zucchini cooks evenly and the topping gets nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together.
3. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your halved zucchini and scoop out a little bit of the flesh from the center to create space for the delicious filling. Leave about 1/4 inch of zucchini around the edges to keep it sturdy.
4. Season the Zucchini:
Brush the inside of each zucchini half with a little olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor as they grill.
5. Fill the Zucchini:
Now, fill each zucchini half with your breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Press it down gently to make sure it stays in place while grilling.
6. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the filled zucchini halves cut side up directly on the grill. Close the lid and let them grill for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is tender and the topping is golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the zucchini from the grill and serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your tasty grilled zucchini with Parmesan!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the final flavor profile of the dish.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs if you’re avoiding gluten!
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can scoop out the zucchini and prepare the breadcrumb mixture in advance. Just keep them separate in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to grill, fill the zucchini and grill as directed!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently on the grill or in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the topping!
