This grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a simple and tasty dish! The zucchini is perfectly tender with a nice smoky flavor, and who can resist gooey, melted cheese on top?
I love making this dish as a quick side for dinner. It’s so easy to prepare and pairs well with just about anything. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These should be medium-sized for the best texture. If you can’t find zucchini, try using yellow squash as a great alternative. Both have a similar flavor and will grill nicely.
Parmesan Cheese: I use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if you prefer. Just make sure it’s finely grated for even melting.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a fantastic crunch to the topping. If you don’t have them, traditional breadcrumbs work, but for a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a different texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: This enhances the grilling process. Feel free to substitute with melted butter or even avocado oil, as both provide great flavor.
How Do You Properly Prepare Zucchini for Grilling?
To get the best out of your zucchini, it’s essential to prepare them correctly. Cutting them in half lengthwise not only helps them cook evenly but also creates a lovely space for that delicious filling.
- Using a spoon, scoop out a bit of the flesh from the center but leave enough for structure. This way, the filling has enough space without risking the zucchini falling apart.
- During grilling, place the zucchinis cut side up. This allows the toppings to get crispy and the zucchini to cook through without becoming mushy.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 12 minutes for grilling, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a flavorful side dish or a healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is about 375°F to 400°F. A hot grill will give the zucchini a nice char and help cook them quickly.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini and cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh, creating a channel or groove in the center of each half. Don’t scoop it all out; you want some flesh to keep the zucchini sturdy!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, half of the grated Parmesan cheese (that’s ½ cup), minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and forms a crumbly topping.
4. Fill the Zucchini:
Spoon the breadcrumb mixture into the hollowed-out part of each zucchini half. Press gently to pack it in, making sure it’s nice and full for a delicious bite.
5. Grill the Zucchini:
Carefully place the filled zucchini halves on the grill, cut side up. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchinis are tender and the topping is golden brown.
6. Add More Cheese:
In the last few minutes of grilling, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the topping. This will melt and become extra crispy. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done grilling, remove the zucchinis from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some lemon juice on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled zucchini!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor or mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep the cheese in a similar quantity so it melts appropriately.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can bake these zucchinis in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Just place them on a baking sheet and follow the same steps as grilling. They’ll turn out delicious!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchinis stuffed with the breadcrumb mixture a few hours ahead. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill them. Take them out about 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or microwave. If using the oven, place them on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
