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Crispy Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs

crispy grilled zucchini - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy grilled zucchini with a cheesy parmesan crust and fresh herbs, perfect for summer dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 medium zucchini (about 1 pound / 450 grams), firm and fresh
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) grated parmesan cheese, freshly grated preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (a mix of chopped rosemary, thyme, and basil)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2-3 medium zucchinis and trim the ends. Cut into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick slices lengthwise.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well.
  3. Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is well coated. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Heat a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  5. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer on the grill pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks form and zucchini is tender but not mushy. Flip gently using tongs.
  6. Sprinkle grated parmesan evenly over the zucchini slices while still on the grill. Cover with grill pan lid or foil for 1-2 minutes to allow cheese to melt and crisp up. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Remove zucchini from the pan and arrange on a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle with lemon zest and extra fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Notes

Pat zucchini slices dry before marinating to reduce moisture and achieve crispiness. Add parmesan cheese at the end of grilling to prevent burning. Avoid overcrowding the grill pan for even cooking and crisp edges. Freshly grated parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-grated. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat best on a grill or broiler to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled zucchini, parmesan zucchini, crispy zucchini, summer side dish, grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, easy recipe