Marinated Grilled Zucchini(Yields 4 Servings)
Marinated grilled zucchini offers a smoky, savory flavor with tender texture, perfect for summer barbecues and light meals, appealing to vegetable lovers and grill enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the zucchini lengthwise.
- Pour Italian dressing about 1 1/2 inches high in a lasagna-type pan.
- Place zucchini in the pan, skin side up.
- Let soak for 2 hours.
- Heat the grill on medium.
- Put zucchini skin side down on the grill and cook for 30 minutes or until a fork goes through easily.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, try using homemade Italian dressing or adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the marinade. If zucchini is not available, yellow squash can be a great substitute. Make sure to cut the zucchini evenly for consistent cooking. You can also grill other vegetables alongside for a colorful platter, such as bell peppers or eggplant.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the marinated grilled zucchini as a side dish to complement grilled meats or fish. It pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes like Tabooley(Wheat Garden Salad) or can be served over a bed of quinoa for a healthy, vegan meal. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or toss with feta cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinated grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the zucchini on a grill or a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds, but grilling will help retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Grilled Zucchini(Yields 4 Servings) contains roughly 615 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2490mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of dressing for marinade?
Yes, you can experiment with different dressings such as balsamic vinaigrette or a homemade lemon garlic dressing. Each will impart a unique flavor to the zucchini, so feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences.
How do I know when the zucchini is done cooking?
The zucchini is ready when it becomes tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on it while grilling, as cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the slices and the heat of the grill.
Can I marinate the zucchini overnight?
While it's best to marinate for about two hours for optimal flavor, you can marinate overnight. Just be cautious, as extended marination may lead to a softer texture. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).