Name: Grilled Zucchini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or oregano), balsamic glaze, or grated Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled zucchini is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes. It’s naturally low in calories, high in fiber, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors, this recipe is perfect for warm-weather meals or year-round healthy eating. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, and can be seasoned any way you like.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Zucchini (medium-sized)
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: lemon juice, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), balsamic glaze, grated Parmesan

Directions

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Wash the zucchini and slice it into long planks or thick rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Place the zucchini directly on the hot grill grates or grill pan in a single layer.
Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
Optional: drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with fresh herbs or Parmesan, or finish with a balsamic glaze.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Zucchini: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the seasoning mix.
Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top before serving.
Herb-Infused: Toss with chopped fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil after grilling.
Lemon-Garlic Zucchini: Add fresh minced garlic and lemon zest for a bright, bold flavor.
Balsamic Glazed: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Note: Zucchini may become softer after reheating but will still taste great. It can also be eaten cold or added to salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the zucchini before grilling?

No, the skin is tender and edible. It also helps the zucchini hold its shape on the grill.

How thick should I cut the zucchini?

Slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick work best—they cook quickly and are easy to flip without falling apart.

Can I use yellow squash instead?

Yes, yellow squash grills similarly to zucchini and can be used interchangeably in this recipe.

What’s the best way to keep zucchini from getting soggy?

Avoid overcooking. Grill just until tender and slightly charred, and don’t cut the zucchini too thin.

Can I grill zucchini on a stovetop?

Yes, a grill pan works well for indoor grilling. Just heat it over medium-high and follow the same steps.

Should I marinate the zucchini first?

It’s not necessary, but you can marinate it for 15–30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.

Can I cook this recipe in the oven?

Yes, roast the zucchini at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a similar texture.

Is grilled zucchini healthy?

Absolutely. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, especially when grilled with heart-healthy olive oil.

Can I freeze grilled zucchini?

It’s not recommended, as zucchini becomes watery and mushy when frozen and thawed.

What can I serve with grilled zucchini?

It pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, rice dishes, or can be used as a topping for sandwiches and salads.

Conclusion

Grilled zucchini is a go-to side dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With a quick prep time, endless seasoning options, and universal appeal, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re firing up the grill in summer or using a grill pan in winter, this easy vegetable dish delivers vibrant flavor and satisfying texture every time.