Zucchini is a delicious and versatile summer squash that takes well to grilling and barbecuing. With a mild flavor and meaty texture, zucchini is a satisfying addition to any barbecue. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness in zucchini and imparts delicious charred bits that make it irresistible. Whether you are cooking for a large group or making a weeknight family dinner, barbecued zucchini is sure to be a hit. Follow this guide to learn how to properly prepare and barbecue zucchini to perfection.

Selecting and Preparing Zucchini for Grilling

When selecting zucchini for grilling, choose specimens that are firm, shiny, and without blemishes. The ideal size is 5-8 inches long and no more than 2 inches in diameter. Larger zucchinis can be tough and seedy. Rinse the zucchinis under cool water just before cooking.

Trim off both ends of the zucchini. You can leave the skin on for grilling or peel into ribbons or strips with a vegetable peeler for a different look. Cut the zucchini into long 1/2 inch thick slices or lengthwise into quarters. Smaller zucchinis can be grilled whole after slicing in half lengthwise.

To prevent sticking and add flavor, brush or rub the zucchini pieces with olive oil and season as desired with salt, pepper, dried herbs like oregano or basil, garlic powder, or spice rubs. Allow to marinate at room temperature for 10-20 minutes before grilling. The salt will draw out moisture from the zucchini to promote even cooking and caramelization when barbecued.

Why Trim and Slice Zucchini Before Grilling

Trimming the ends prevents the moist flesh inside from escaping as steam through the openings while on the grill. This can make the ends tough and dried out.

Slicing and cutting the zucchini allows for more surface area for caramelizing and prevents uneven cooking. Uniform 1/2 inch slices cook the fastest and most evenly on the barbecue.

What’s the Best Oil or Marinade for Grilled Zucchini?

Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for grilling zucchini. The peppery bite pairs well with the mild squash.
For added flavor, use a blend of olive oil, balsamic or red wine vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Lemon or lime juice brightens up the flavor of grilled zucchini.
Avoid vegetable and nut oils which can burn at high heat. Stick with olive, avocado, or grapeseed oil.
Marinating for just 10-20 minutes is enough time to season the zucchini and promote browning.
If marinating longer the salt will draw out too much moisture, so pat dry before grilling.

How to Grill Zucchini Perfectly

Grilling zucchini properly brings out its natural sugars and gives it delicious charred bits without burning it or making it mushy. Follow these tips for perfect barbecue zucchini every time.

Use Direct High Heat

Grill zucchini over direct high heat, around 450-550°F. This helps it get browned and caramelized rather than steamed. Avoid cooking over low heat.

Grill It Dry

Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels before putting on the grill. The drier surface will promote better browning. If marinated, let excess liquid drip off.

Grill It Quickly

Zucchini should be cooked quickly over direct heat. Grill for 2-4 minutes per side until browned with grill marks but still crisp-tender. Don’t overcook it.

Leave It Alone

Let the zucchini develop a nice crust before attempting to flip it. Moving it too much can make it stick. Use a metal spatula and long handled tongs.

Watch for Doneness

The zucchini is ready when it is charred in spots but still firm without being mushy. Check doneness by piercing with a skewer.

Allow It to Rest

When the zucchini is done grilling, transfer to a plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Can You Grill Zucchini Ahead of Time?

Yes, grilled zucchini holds well for several hours after cooking. You can grill it 1-2 hours ahead for meals. It does not need to be served immediately.

How to Reheat Grilled Zucchini

To reheat, place the grilled zucchini slices on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 5 minutes until heated through. You can also quickly reheat in the microwave.

Best Ways to Flavor Grilled Zucchini

One of the great things about grilling zucchini is all the possibilities for adding flavor. Get creative with herbs, spices, sauces, and other ingredients to make your barbecue zucchini pop.

Herb and Spice Rubs

Coat sliced zucchini with olive oil and add spice rubs before grilling. Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, ranch seasoning, or Italian herb mixes all work well.

Compound Butters

Top grilled zucchini with a flavored butter. Mix softened butter with lemon zest, chives, garlic, parsley, basil, or other fresh herbs. Spread over zucchini after grilling.

Infused Oils and Sauces

Marinate or brush zucchini with oil infused with garlic, rosemary, chili flakes, cumin, or other aromatics and flavors that hold up to the heat of the grill. Baste grilled zucchini with barbecue sauce for great flavor.

Soy Sauce and Sesame

Asian inspired flavors like soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and sesame seeds are excellent on grilled zucchini. Add sliced green onions for freshness.

Cheese Please

Who can resist zucchini and cheese? Top grilled zucchini with crumbled feta, goat cheese, shredded Parmesan, or fresh mozzarella for a savory treat.

Nuts and Seeds

Chopped toasted nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts add crunch and flavor. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over grilled zucchini while hot for extra nuttiness.

Fresh and Dried Fruit

Sweet summer fruits complement grilled zucchini beautifully. Top with fresh peaches, plums, cherries, or mango salsa. Raisins and dried cranberries add chewy contrast.

Acid Brightness

A squirt of lemon or lime juice right after grilling really brightens up the flavor of zucchini. Balsamic reduction is also delicious drizzled over hot grilled zucchini.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is very versatile. From side dishes to main courses, here are some delicious ways to serve up this tasty summer squash.

Simple Sides

Brush with olive oil and just salt and pepper. Keep it simple to let the flavor of the zucchini shine.
Toss with fresh pesto or chimichurri sauce and top with shaved Parmesan.
Serve grilled zucchini on its own as a side or over mixed greens for a salad.

On Skewers

Alternate chunks of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onion on skewers for grilled veggie kabobs.
Make Caprese skewers with grilled zucchini, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic reduction.

Main Dishes

Serve grilled zucchini over rice or quinoa with black beans for a vegetarian entree.
Top with sauteed shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein.
Layer grilled zucchini on sandwiches instead of deli meat. Try it on toasted ciabatta with pesto and fresh mozzarella.

As Part of a Meal

Chop grilled zucchini and add it to pasta, risotto, egg dishes, pizza, salads, soups, and more.
Stuff hollowed out grilled zucchini boats with rice, meat, cheese, or veggies for low carb meal.
Grill slices of zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes for easy veggie fajitas or tacos with cheese.

FAQs About Grilling Zucchini

What are the best types of zucchini for grilling?

The typical dark green, smooth-skinned zucchini is perfect for grilling. Yellow summer squash works too. Choose smaller, tender zucchinis about 5-8 inches long. Avoid large, old zucchinis that get seedy.

Can you grill zucchini with the skin on?

Yes, the skin is edible and contains nutrients. Make sure to wash it well. Leaving it on helps the zucchini hold its shape on the grill. If peeled, slices may fall apart easier.

Should you grill zucchini on a pan or grill grates?

For best results grill zucchini in direct contact with the grates. The surface needs to get very hot to caramelize and char. If on a pan it steams instead of browning. Use a grill basket to contain smaller pieces.

What are the best wood chips to use for grilling zucchini?

Fruitwoods like apple, cherry, peach, and pecan give nice mildly sweet flavor. Herbaceous oak and alder woods also pair well with zucchini without overpowering it. Avoid mesquite which is too strong.

How do you prevent grilled zucchini from sticking?

Brush zucchini with oil before grilling and allow to fully cook before trying to flip. Use a metal spatula to gently scrape it off the grates after getting a nice char. Avoid moving it too soon. Also, clean the grates before grilling.

Can you grill zucchini ahead of time?

Yes, grilled zucchini holds well after cooking for 1-2 hours. Let it cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving if not eating immediately after grilling.

Is it safe to eat the blackened parts on grilled zucchini?

The charred black crispy bits are safe to eat and contain tons of flavor! They are caused by sugars caramelizing on the zucchini. Just scrape off any truly burnt pieces. Enjoy the tasty browned parts.

Conclusion

Grilling brings out the best in mild and tender zucchini. With high heat and direct contact with the grill grates, the natural sugars caramelize while the texture remains firm and meaty. Season grilled zucchini simply with olive oil, salt and pepper or get creative with marinades, spice rubs, and flavorful toppings. Serve zucchini hot off the barbecue as a simple side, skewers, stuffed boats, in main dishes, sandwiches and more. Follow these tips for perfect grilled zucchini worthy of any summer cookout or weeknight dinner.

How to BBQ Zucchini {Recent Date}

Zucchini is one of the most popular vegetables to grill because it’s easy, quick and takes on lots of flavor. Grilled zucchini makes a tasty side dish or even a light main course for vegetarians when served with rice, beans or other healthy sides. Here is a simple guide for how to barbecue zucchini to perfection.

Selecting Zucchini for the Grill

Look for zucchinis no larger than 2 inches in diameter so they cook evenly. Larger zucchinis tend to be seedy. The ideal size is 4-8 inches long. Choose firm, shiny zucchinis without blemishes or soft spots. Rinse and dry just before grilling.

Trim off both ends of the zucchini which can harbor moisture that causes the ends to steam instead of grill properly. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slabs for quick grilling. You can also cut it into sticks or leave small zucchinis whole.

Prepping Zucchini for the Barbecue

To prevent sticking and add flavor, brush or rub zucchini pieces with olive oil and season as desired. Good options are garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, lemon pepper, Italian herbs, or use a store bought dry rub.

Let the seasoned zucchini sit at room temperature for 10-20 minutes before grilling so the salt and spices penetrate and draw out moisture. Dry any excess marinade by blotting with paper towels. The drier surface will promote nice charring when grilled.

How to Grill Zucchini Perfectly

Grilling zucchini over high heat quickly not only prevents mushiness but also gives it delicious caramelized bits while keeping the interior tender. Follow these tips:

Grill zucchini directly over the hot coals or flame at 450-550°F if using a gas grill.
Cook quickly, just 2-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Don’t overcook.
Resist the urge to move or flip too soon. Let it char before attempting to turn. Use tongs and a metal spatula.
Grill on a well-oiled clean rack. Zucchini can stick if the grates are dirty.
Check for doneness by piercing with a skewer. It should be slightly firm but cooked through.
Let rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving. The residual heat finishes cooking it.

Delicious Ways to Flavor Grilled Zucchini

One of the best parts of grilling zucchini is experimenting with different herb and spice rubs, flavored oils and creative toppings. Here are some tasty ways to jazz up your barbecue zucchini:

Fresh lemon or lime juice
Chopped fresh herbs like basil, cilantro or parsley
Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Toasted nuts – pine nuts, almonds, pecans
Grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella
Balsamic glaze or salsa
Pesto drizzle
Chopped olives, tomatoes, bell peppers
Tzatziki, hummus or tahini sauce

Serving Ideas for Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is very versatile. It makes a quick and healthy side dish but also shines as the star of the show. Ways to serve:

Simple side dish with olive oil and shaved Parmesan
Over mixed greens as a salad
Grilled veggie sandwiches or wraps
Skewers with onions, peppers, mushrooms
Rice or quinoa bowls
Stuffed zucchini boats
Antipasto platters
Taco filling or fajitas
Pasta with grilled veggies

So easy and delicious! Just toss some zucchini on the grill this summer for a fast, flavorful addition to any barbecue spread.

How to BBQ Zucchini Like a Pro

As one of the most delicious and versatile vegetables for grilling, zucchini is a backyard barbecue favorite. When exposed to high heat, zucchini transforms from a mild, watery squash into an irresistible treat with a slightly nutty flavor and luscious texture. Grilling accentuates zucchini’s natural sweetness and gives it delicious caramelized bits while keeping the inside tender. This easy guide will teach you pro tips for selecting, prepping and grilling zucchini to perfection.

Selecting Zucchini for the Grill

For even grilling, choose zucchinis that are less than 2 inches wide and 6-8 inches long. Smaller zucchinis tend to be the most tender while larger ones can become seedy. Pick zucchinis that are firm and blemish free. Give them a wash just before cooking.

Trim off both ends which can prevent moisture from escaping as steam while grilling. Then slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/2 inch planks or sticks. You can also cut small, slender zucchinis in half long ways to grill whole.

Prepping Zucchini for the Grill

Rub or brush sliced zucchini all over with olive oil and season as desired. Sea salt, cracked pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, lemon pepper, or Italian seasoning all make great choices. For more flavor, marinate for 10-20 minutes before grilling. Blot away excess moisture with paper towels just before grilling.

If using a marinade with acid from citrus juice or vinegar, limit marinating time to 10-15 minutes max to avoid mushiness. Pat zucchini very dry after marinating and before grilling for best results.

How to Grill Zucchini Perfectly

Grilling over high direct heat is key for bringing out zucchini’s sweetness while keeping it from becoming waterlogged. Follow these pro tips:

Use a two-zone fire with direct high heat on one side of the grill around 450-550°F. Avoid low, indirect heat.
Grill zucchini quickly for just 2-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Resist the urge to flip or move too soon.
Let slices get nice char marks before attempting to turn them. Use tongs and metal spatula.
Watch closely to prevent burning. Zucchini has high water content and can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
Check for doneness by poking all the way through with a skewer. It should slide through easily but meet just a little resistance in the center when done.
Transfer grilled zucchini to a plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices redistribute. This finishes the cooking process.

Ways to Add Flavor

One of the best parts of grilling zucchini is getting creative with herbs, spices, oils and toppings. Consider these pro flavor ideas:

Fresh herbs – basil, cilantro, dill, parsley, oregano, rosemary
Spices – garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, cumin, curry
Oils – olive, avocado, walnut, grapeseed, sesame
Nuts – pine nuts, almonds, pecans, walnuts
Cheese – Parmesan, feta, goat, mozzarella, ricotta
Fruit – lemon/lime juice and zest, stone fruits, mango
Veggies – tomatoes, onions, peppers, mushrooms, corn

The possibilities are endless for dressing up grilled zucchini!

Now that you know how select, prep and grill zucchini like a pro, it’s time to fire up the barbecue and enjoy this versatile veggie all summer long. Grilled zucchini makes an easy, healthy side dish or star of the show in kebabs,