This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Just slice the zucchini, grill it, and sprinkle on some cheesy goodness. Easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchini are best for this dish. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use eggplant, bell peppers, or asparagus for a different flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a tasty alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds rich flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) are great substitutes, providing a similar depth.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is wonderful, but you can use dried thyme or even oregano. If you like a bolder flavor, try rosemary or basil instead.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but there are a few simple tips to make sure they come out tender and delicious every time. First, slicing the zucchini lengthwise helps them grill evenly. Brushing with olive oil keeps them moist and prevents sticking.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat to avoid charring.
- Keep an eye on the time; grill for 8-10 minutes to achieve that tender texture.
- Look for golden brown topping as a sign they’re ready!
Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges; it brightens the dish wonderfully!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. So, in just about 25 minutes, you can have a tasty side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your zucchini cooks evenly and gets a nice char.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are nicely coated with the oil and spices. This will create a tasty topping for your zucchini!
3. Prepare the Zucchini:
Brush the cut sides of the zucchini with a little olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper for extra flavor. Getting that oil on the zucchini helps it grill better and keeps it from sticking.
4. Grill the Zucchini:
Place your zucchini halves, cut side up, on a grill-safe tray or directly on the grill grates. Be careful not to let them fall through! Next, generously spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the zucchini halves, making sure they are well covered.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Grill the zucchini for about 8-10 minutes, or until they become tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the zucchini from the grill. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side, perfect for squeezing over the top. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for even more cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use eggplant, bell peppers, or even summer squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable. Cut them into similar thicknesses as zucchini to ensure even grilling.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor. For a different cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can also work well as substitutes for Parmesan.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them back on the grill for a couple of minutes or warm them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. However, it’s best to grill the zucchini fresh for optimal texture. You could also grill the zucchini ahead of time and serve it cold or at room temperature with a drizzle of olive oil for a different take!
