Grilled zucchini is a fantastic side dish for summer cookouts or any time you want a simple, flavorful vegetable dish. This Grilled Lemon Pepper Zucchini recipe takes it up a notch with the addition of zesty lemon and aromatic pepper. It’s easy to make, healthy, and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious grilled zucchini!
Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Pepper Zucchini
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Zucchini
1. Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchinis and trim off the ends. Slice them lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Marinate the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini slices in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss the zucchini slices until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
5. Grill the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini slices on the preheated grill in a single layer. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
6. Serve
- Remove the grilled zucchini from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
About the Main Ingredients
Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash that is mild in flavor and has a high water content. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. Zucchini is low in calories and a good source of vitamins C and A, as well as fiber.
Olive Oil
Olive oil adds richness and helps to coat the zucchini slices for even grilling. It also contributes to the overall flavor of the dish. Olive oil is a healthy fat that is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Lemon
Lemon adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the grilled zucchini. The juice and zest of the lemon help to enhance the other flavors in the dish. Lemons are also high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the grilled zucchini. It pairs well with the lemon and other seasonings in the marinade. Black pepper is also believed to have health benefits, including aiding digestion and improving nutrient absorption.
Tips for Making the Perfect Grilled Lemon Pepper Zucchini
- Use a Grill Pan: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and grill the zucchini slices as directed.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the zucchini, as it can become mushy. Grill it just until it is tender and has grill marks.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the marinade to suit your taste. You can add more or less black pepper, salt, or other seasonings to customize the flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Grilled zucchini is best served hot off the grill. If you need to keep it warm, you can place it in a low oven until ready to serve.
