Zucchini on the grill needs nothing more than olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Three medium zucchinis sliced lengthwise, marinated in the dressing for a few minutes while the barbecue heats, and grilled for a couple of minutes per side. That is it. Four ingredients and ten minutes. A keeper for the cookout.
The lemon juice does two things. It flavours the zucchini from the outside during marinating, and it keeps the surface from browning too dark too fast on the grill. The result is zucchini that is tender, slightly charred, and bright. This is the side dish I make when the main course is already complicated enough.
Tips for Making Grilled Lemon Zucchini
Slice lengthwise for the best grill surface
Long, flat planks lay flat on the grill grates and develop even char. Round slices fall through or roll.
About a quarter inch thick. Too thin and they disintegrate. Too thick and the centre stays raw.
Marinate while the grill heats
Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the sliced zucchini and let it sit for a few minutes.
The zucchini absorbs the dressing quickly. Five minutes is enough. Longer is fine but not necessary.
Grilled Lemon Zucchini
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 slices
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Grilled zucchini with a fresh lemony flavor, perfect as a quick and easy side dish for any summer meal.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix the marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Slice the zucchinis and pour the marinade over them.
- Let the zucchinis absorb the flavors while you light up the BBQ.
- Place the zucchinis on the BBQ wire rack and grill for a couple of minutes on each side.
Notes
For a more intense flavor, let the zucchini marinate for longer before grilling. This dish is best served fresh off the grill. If you don’t have a BBQ, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 0
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a grill pan?
Yes. A grill pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop works. The ridges give you the same marks as an outdoor barbecue.
Should I salt the zucchini first?
Not necessary for grilling. The salt in the marinade is enough. Salting and draining is useful for baking but not for a quick grill.
What do I serve this with?
Anything. Grilled meat, fish, or as part of a grilled vegetable platter. It works warm or at room temperature.
Grilled zucchini this good with FOUR ingredients!
This is proof that simple wins, zucchini on the grill with just lemon and oil. It came out charred and bright, and I could eat the whole platter. So good, a great no-fuss summer side!