Name: Delicious Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 5 medium Zucchini (Trimmed and sliced lengthwise); 1 teaspoon Salt (For drawing out moisture); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (For grilling); 4 ounces Goat Cheese (Crumbled); 1 bunch Fresh Basil (Chopped); 2 tablespoons Honey (Or agave syrup for vegan option); to taste Pepper (For seasoning)

The moment I took my first bite of grilled zucchini drizzled with honey, my taste buds danced in delight. This Easy Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey recipe is the perfect embodiment of summer, combining the rich tang of goat cheese, bright freshness from basil, and a touch of sweetness that elevates this lovely vegetable to new heights. What I love about this dish is how effortlessly it fits into any gathering; it’s a quick, healthy side that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be customized with feta if you’re feeling adventurous! Ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Let’s fire up the grill and make some magic happen!

Why Grilled Zucchini is a Must-try?

Flavor Explosion: This dish packs a punch with the creamy goat cheese, aromatic basil, and a drizzle of honey that harmoniously blend together.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet side ready to impress your guests.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or toss it into a refreshing quinoa salad for a complete meal.
Healthy Choice: Low in calories and high in antioxidants, it’s a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion.
Crowd Pleaser: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the irresistible combo of savory and sweet flavors! Try it alongside options like Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini or Honey Curry Roasted Cauliflower for a delightful veggie spread!

Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese Ingredients

For the Zucchini
• Zucchini – The star of the dish, providing a mild taste and beautiful grill marks when cooked.
• Salt – Essential for drawing out excess moisture, preventing the grilled zucchini from becoming soggy.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – Ensures the zucchini doesn’t stick to the grill and adds a touch of richness.

For the Toppings
• Goat Cheese – Offers a creamy and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the zucchini; feta can be used for a different twist.
• Fresh Basil – Imparts a refreshing aroma; be sure to use only fresh basil for the best flavor impact.
• Honey – Brings a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements; agave syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Pepper – Season to taste for an additional flavor boost.

Embrace the essence of Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey with these simple yet vital ingredients, setting the stage for a scrumptious side that will wow your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Begin by trimming the ends off 5 medium zucchinis, then slice each zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick strips. This thickness ensures even grilling and tender texture. Arrange the zucchini strips on a paper towel and sprinkle salt over them to draw out excess moisture. Allow them to sit for 20 minutes as you prep the grill and other ingredients.

Step 2: Pat Dry the Zucchini
After the zucchini has rested, take a clean towel or paper towel and gently pat each strip to remove the excess moisture that has been drawn out by the salt. This step helps prevent sogginess during grilling, crucial for achieving that perfect texture in your Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). While the grill heats, brush both sides of each zucchini strip with olive or avocado oil to prevent sticking and to add moisture. Ensure an even coating for the best grilled results.

Step 4: Grill the Zucchini
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the zucchini strips on the grates. Allow them to grill for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through using tongs. The zucchini should be tender and have beautiful grill marks when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; you want a perfect balance of char and tenderness.

Step 5: Serve the Zucchini
Remove the grilled zucchini from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Top each piece generously with crumbled goat cheese, fresh chopped basil, and a drizzle of honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste for additional flavor. Your Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey is now ready to be served as a delightful side dish!

What to Serve with Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Elevate your summer dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance this vibrant dish and create a memorable meal.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken complements the lightness of the zucchini, making it a perfect main that everyone loves. The smoky flavors contrast beautifully with the dish’s freshness.
Quinoa Salad: A cool quinoa salad, loaded with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, provides a refreshing texture that balances the richness of the goat cheese. Toss in a light lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.
Roasted Salmon: The tender and flaky salmon pairs well with the savory notes of grilled zucchini, adding depth and protein to your plate. Drizzle with a lemon sauce for an extra kick.
Crispy Flatbread: Serve warm flatbread on the side, providing a delicious vehicle for scoop up the zucchini and toppings. The crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Fresh Herb Salad: Bright mixed greens dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette not only add color but also enhance the basil’s flavor. This invigorating salad will cleanse your palate between bites.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade offers a sweet-tart contrast that elevates the dining experience. The bubbles and citrus awaken your senses as you enjoy your meal.
Tiramisu: For dessert, try a light tiramisu that balances sweetness with a touch of coffee flavor. It rounds off the meal perfectly, leaving everyone with a sweet memory.
Grilled Corn: Sweet, charred corn on the cob brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory zucchini dish, enhancing the overall summer vibe.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc is ideal; its citrus notes amplify the flavors of the herbs and cheese. Sip while you savor the meal, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite.

Expert Tips for Grilled Zucchini

Pat Them Dry: Ensure to pat the zucchini well after salting; this prevents sogginess and helps achieve that perfect grilled texture.
Right Cooking Time: Grill for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway; it’s key to avoid overcooking and maintain tenderness for your Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey.
Uniform Thickness: Cut zucchini strips to a uniform 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking and pleasing presentation.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh basil and high-quality goat cheese to enhance flavors, as they elevate this simple dish to restaurant-quality.
Grill Temperature Matters: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C), for optimal searing and grill marks.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Zucchini

Fridge: Store leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold or add it to salads and pastas for added flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen zucchini on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain texture for your Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey.

Avoiding Sogginess: If you plan to reheat grilled zucchini, ensure it is fully thawed before reheating to keep it from becoming soggy.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and salt the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to dehydrate slightly, which enhances their flavor when grilled. Simply pat them dry and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the goat cheese crumble and chop the basil beforehand—just keep them in separate containers. When you’re ready to serve, quickly grill the zucchini for 10-15 minutes and top with the prepped ingredients. This approach not only saves time but guarantees that the flavors are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!

Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese Variations

Now that you’ve got the perfect recipe, let your creativity shine with some delightful twists on this dish that will make it your own!

Feta Cheese: Substitute goat cheese with feta for a saltier, crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with zucchini.
Herb Swap: Use fresh oregano or thyme instead of basil for a different herbaceous flavor; these herbs add a warm, earthy aroma.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the zucchini before grilling to ignite a zesty kick that livens up every bite.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction instead of honey for a tangy, sweet finish that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese.
Veggie Medley: Grill other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant alongside the zucchini, creating a vibrant medley of flavors and colors!
Nutty Crunch: Top the finished dish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch that complements the creamy goat cheese wonderfully.
Smoky Twist: Brush the zucchini with a hint of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that elevates the grilled taste.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice on top just before serving to enhance the freshness and brighten up the flavors.

Experimenting with these variations can take your Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey to a whole new level while making it uniquely yours. Whether you add something spicy or swap out the cheese for a nutty twist, the possibilities are endless! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey Recipe FAQs

What kind of zucchini should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for ones that are firm, glossy, and bright in color. Avoid zucchinis with dark spots all over, soft spots, or shriveled skin. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them perfect for grilling.

How should I store leftover grilled zucchini?
Very good question! You can store leftover grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold as a refreshing salad topping or heated up and added to pasta dishes for a delightful flavor boost.

Can I freeze grilled zucchini?
Absolutely! To freeze grilled zucchini, first, lay the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out the air before sealing. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

What should I do if my grilled zucchini is soggy?
If your grilled zucchini turns out soggy, don’t worry! This usually happens due to excess moisture. To help avoid it next time, ensure to salt and pat your zucchini dry before grilling, and avoid overcooking. If reheating, always fully thaw frozen zucchini and give it a chance to crisp up in the oven rather than using a microwave.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! This Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian. However, for those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the goat cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for specific allergens.

What can I do with grilled zucchini leftovers?
Great question! Leftover grilled zucchini is incredibly versatile. You can toss it into a fresh salad, mix it into pasta or grain bowls, or even use it as a topping for omelets. The options are endless, so let your creativity shine!