This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a tasty side dish that’s super easy to make. The smoky flavor from grilling pairs perfectly with the salty cheese on top!
I love how simple it is to whip this up for dinner. Just slice the zucchini, grill it, sprinkle cheese, and you’re ready to impress! Plus, it’s a hit with the kids—who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect here. They’re tender and have a nice flavor. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use eggplant or yellow squash as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative that’s designed for melting.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is recommended for the extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work well too. For a gluten-free option, you can use crushed cornflakes or ground almonds.
Olive Oil: It’s great for grilling, but if you’re out, avocado oil is a fantastic alternative due to its high smoke point.
Fresh Herbs: I love adding fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. If you’re low on fresh options, dried herbs can substitute—just use about a third of the amount since they’re more potent.
How Do You Prepare Zucchini for Grilling?
Preparing the zucchini correctly is key for achieving the best texture and flavor. Cutting and scooping are important steps, and here’s how to do it right:
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh. This helps create space for your filling and ensures they cook evenly.
- Don’t scoop too much! Leave some flesh for structure and flavor.
By preparing the zucchini this way, you allow the flavors of the filling to shine through while maintaining the zucchini’s integrity during grilling. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. In total, plan for about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and yummy dish that you can whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium heat, so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to grill the zucchinis.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out a small amount of the flesh from each half to create a little bowl for your filling. Don’t scoop too much—just enough to make room!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried thyme, and olive oil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks yummy!
4. Stuff the Zucchini:
Now, it’s time to fill those zucchinis! Take your breadcrumb mixture and generously fill each zucchini half, pressing it down slightly so it holds together.
5. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the stuffed zucchinis on the preheated grill with the cut side facing up. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchinis are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the zucchinis from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini!
Can I Use Other Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! If you want to switch it up, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or mozzarella for a gooier texture. Just keep in mind that mozzarella won’t provide the same level of crispiness as Parmesan.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or even ground almonds or walnuts can work well for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to suit the flavor of your substitute!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini?
Store any leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back on the grill for a few minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it even heartier by adding cooked quinoa or lentils to the breadcrumb mixture for extra protein and texture. Just mix them in before filling the zucchinis!
