Grilled zucchini topped with creamy feta and fresh basil is a tasty and colorful side dish! It’s easy to make and perfect for summer barbecues or quick dinners.
You can never go wrong with a little cheese and herbs, right? I love serving this alongside grilled chicken or just enjoying it on its own—so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choose fresh, firm zucchini for the best flavor and texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, yellow squash works well too, giving a nice color contrast.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty, tangy flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon juice for a similar texture and taste.
Pine Nuts: These provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re short on pine nuts or have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be great substitutes.
Basil: Fresh basil is perfect for this recipe, but you can substitute it with fresh parsley or mint for a different yet delightful twist.
Lemon: The lemon zest and juice brighten up the dish. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice can work as a zesty alternative.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but here are my best tips to ensure you get that tender, flavorful result:
- Make even slices about 1/4 inch thick for uniform cooking.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. This temperature helps to cook the zucchini through without burning.
- Oil the zucchini generously for a nice char and to prevent sticking.
- Turn the slices only once, about 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Feta and Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes for grilling. In no time, you’ll have a fresh and flavorful side dish that’s both healthy and delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This ensures that your zucchini cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until each piece of zucchini is nicely coated. This adds flavor and helps them cook beautifully on the grill.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices directly on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be tender and have those attractive grill marks. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary slightly depending on your grill.
4. Toast the Pine Nuts:
While your zucchinis are grilling, take a small skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. You’re looking for a golden color and a nice, nutty aroma. Watch closely to avoid burning!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Once the zucchinis are grilled, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Now it’s time to add the toppings! Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, and the toasted pine nuts on top of the zucchini.
6. Add Lemon and Toss:
Finish it off by adding the lemon zest and lemon juice over the zucchini and toppings. Gently toss everything together to combine the flavors. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled zucchini with feta and basil can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a delightful and colorful side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your fresh creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture and saltiness will vary depending on the cheese you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Pine Nuts?
No worries! You can replace pine nuts with any other nuts, like walnuts or almonds, or even seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Just be sure to toast them for a more enhanced flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can serve them cold, at room temperature, or reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid making the zucchini mushy.
Can I Make This Without a Grill?
Definitely! You can roast the zucchini in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Alternatively, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop, which would give similar results and those lovely grill marks!
