This tasty grilled zucchini dish is simple and delicious. The zucchini becomes tender and full of flavor, all topped with a sprinkle of yummy Parmesan cheese!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make—just slice, grill, and sprinkle away! It’s a perfect side that makes veggies fun. I could eat this every day! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchinis are key for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too, but aim for similar sizes for even cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a nice crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs will do. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re watching your dairy intake, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich taste, but avocado oil can be a great substitute for a lighter flavor and higher smoke point.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is lovely, but feel free to substitute with dried oregano or basil if you don’t have fresh on hand.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky; too little time and it’s undercooked, too much and it gets mushy. Follow these tips:
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise to allow for even cooking. Scooping out some flesh helps them cook through without becoming soggy.
- Brush them with olive oil before grilling; it helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor.
- Grill cut-side up first to get those nice marks. Keep an eye on them while they’re cooking, just 3-5 minutes is perfect for that initial grilling.
- After filling, return them to the grill for another 5-7 minutes, checking for that golden, crispy topping.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 15 minutes of grilling time. With a total of around 30 minutes, you’ll have a wonderful side dish ready for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your zucchinis cook evenly and that you get those lovely grill marks!
2. Preparing the Zucchini:
While the grill heats up, take your zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh from the center of each half, creating a little boat for your filling. Don’t throw away that scooped-out flesh—you can save it for another recipe if you like!
3. Making the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until all the breadcrumbs are well-coated with the mixture.
4. Brushing and Seasoning:
Brush the cut sides of the zucchini with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. This will add extra flavor while they grill.
5. Grilling the Zucchini Halves:
Place the zucchini halves cut-side up on the grill. Grill them for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you see nice grill marks forming on the surface.
6. Filling the Zucchini:
After the initial grilling, take the zucchinis off the grill. Now it’s time to fill them up! Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously into each zucchini half, packing it in well.
7. Finishing on the Grill:
Return the filled zucchinis to the grill! Cook them for another 5-7 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
8. Serving:
Once they’re done, remove the zucchinis from the grill and serve them warm. Don’t forget to add fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your tasty grilled zucchini!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with any semi-hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a melty topping. Just keep in mind that switching cheeses may subtly alter the overall taste and texture.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can easily roast the stuffed zucchinis in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the zucchini halves on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Just remember to adjust the cooking time depending on your oven!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you want to maintain that crispy topping, a quick broil for the last minute can help revitalize them!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend well into the filling and cook evenly.
