As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
Have you ever wondered how to elevate your summer BBQs with simple yet delicious side dishes? Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can transform your gatherings into something special. From grilled skewers to stuffed boats, these five recipes pack flavor and appeal. You'll find options that cater to various tastes, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Let's explore how these dishes can enhance your next cookout.
Key Takeaways
- Grilled Zucchini Skewers with garlic and herbs make a smoky, flavorful side dish perfect for BBQs.
- Spicy Zucchini Fritters, served with a yogurt dip, provide a delicious and unique appetizer option.
- Zucchini and Corn Salad with lime vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy choice for summer gatherings.
- Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Chips offer a crispy, guilt-free alternative to traditional snacks at BBQs.
- Stuffed Zucchini Boats can be customized with various ingredients for a nutritious and satisfying side dish.
Grilled Zucchini Skewers With Garlic and Herbs
Grilled zucchini skewers with garlic and herbs are a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. This dish isn't only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect side for any BBQ or a light vegetarian main course. The smoky aroma from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini, while the garlic and herbs add depth and richness to each bite.
Pair these skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or serve them alongside grilled meats for a colorful and nutritious meal.
To make these grilled zucchini skewers, you'll need fresh zucchini, a selection of herbs, and a few pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just a handful of ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these skewers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions:
1. Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, wash and slice the zucchinis into thick rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Toss the zucchini slices in the marinade until they're well coated. Thread the marinated zucchini onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the zucchini is tender and has nice grill marks.
For the best results, make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to your skewers for added flavor and color.
Enjoy your grilled zucchini skewers hot off the grill, and consider serving them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Spicy Zucchini Fritters With Yogurt Dip
Spicy zucchini fritters are a delightful way to enjoy fresh zucchini while adding a kick of flavor to your appetizer or side dish spread. These fritters aren't only easy to prepare but also provide a fantastic way to use up any surplus zucchini from your garden or local market.
Paired with a revitalizing yogurt dip, they make for a perfect snack or light meal. The combination of spices and herbs in these fritters elevates the humble zucchini to new heights, making them irresistible.
Whether you serve them at a summer barbecue or as a cozy weeknight dinner, these fritters are sure to impress your family and friends. Let's plunge into this simple yet delicious recipe that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the yogurt dip:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the spicy zucchini fritters, start by grating the zucchinis and sprinkling them with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then squeeze out the moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini with flour, egg, baking powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Meanwhile, prepare the yogurt dip by mixing the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Serve the fritters warm with the yogurt dip on the side.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider mixing in other spices such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs like dill or cilantro.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the fritters in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Also, be sure to adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Enjoy your delicious spicy zucchini fritters!
Zucchini and Corn Salad With Lime Vinaigrette
Zucchini and Corn Salad with Lime Vinaigrette is a vibrant and rejuvenating dish that makes the perfect accompaniment to any summer barbecue or picnic. The combination of fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and zesty lime brings a burst of flavor that complements grilled meats beautifully.
This salad isn't only delicious but also healthy, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy seasonal produce at its best.
This recipe is easy to prepare, allowing you to whip it up in no time. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, the crunch of the zucchini and the sweetness of the corn will delight your taste buds. Plus, the lime vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that elevates the entire dish, making it a staple for your summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned/frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the Zucchini and Corn Salad, start by dicing the zucchinis and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro. If you're using fresh corn, you can remove the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
For best results, use fresh and seasonal ingredients to enhance the flavor of your salad. You can also customize the salad by adding other ingredients like avocado, cherry tomatoes, or black beans for added texture and taste.
If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, consider adding the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the zucchini crisp. Enjoy this delightful salad as a rejuvenating side dish at your next BBQ!
Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Chips
Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Chips are a delightful snack or side dish that combines the fresh, light flavor of zucchini with the rich, savory taste of Parmesan cheese. This recipe transforms ordinary zucchini into crispy, golden chips that are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips that's certain to satisfy any craving.
To make these irresistible zucchini chips, you'll need to slice the zucchini into thin rounds to guarantee they become crispy in the oven. Coating the zucchini with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices adds flavor and texture. These chips are quick to prepare and only take a short time in the oven, making them an excellent option for a last-minute appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick, and set aside. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Next, lightly coat each zucchini round with olive oil spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them. Then, dip each round into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to guarantee an even coating. Arrange the coated zucchini rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. For best results, make certain to keep an eye on the chips near the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
If you want extra crispy chips, consider using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasoning blends or cheeses to customize the flavor to your preference. Enjoy your Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Chips as a tasty and healthy snack option!
Stuffed Zucchini Boats With Quinoa and Veggies
Stuffed zucchini boats with quinoa and veggies are a delightful and healthy dish that's perfect for a summer barbecue or a nutritious weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with a savory filling of seasoned quinoa, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Not only is this dish visually appealing, but it also provides a satisfying texture and an array of flavors that will please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Preparing stuffed zucchini boats is a simple process that allows for plenty of customization. You can add your favorite vegetables or even some protein if you desire. These boats aren't only tasty but also a great way to use up any extra veggies you have in your fridge. Serve them as a main course or a side dish; either way, they're sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow boat. Brush the insides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced bell pepper, corn, and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Remove from heat and mix in half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Stuff the zucchini halves with the quinoa and veggie mixture, pressing down gently to pack them in. Top each stuffed zucchini boat with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Place the stuffed zucchinis on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, experiment with different spices or herbs in the filling, such as cumin or fresh parsley. You can also substitute the mozzarella cheese with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
If you prefer a heartier meal, consider adding cooked ground turkey or black beans to the quinoa mixture. Serve the stuffed zucchini boats with a fresh side salad for a complete meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in These Zucchini Recipes?
Absolutely, you can use other vegetables in these recipes! Think bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms. Just adjust cooking times as needed, and you'll create a delicious, varied dish that suits your taste perfectly. Enjoy experimenting!
How Do I Choose the Best Zucchini for Cooking?
To choose the best zucchini for cooking, look for firm, shiny ones with smooth skin. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots. Smaller zucchinis are often sweeter and more tender, making them perfect for your dishes.
What Are Some Good Seasoning Alternatives for Zucchini Dishes?
When you're looking to elevate your zucchini experience, consider fragrant herbs like basil or thyme, zesty lemon juice, or a hint of garlic. These alternatives can transform your dish into a delightful culinary adventure. Enjoy!
How Can I Store Leftover Cooked Zucchini?
To store leftover cooked zucchini, let it cool, then place it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage, preserving its flavor and texture.
Are These Recipes Suitable for Vegetarian or Vegan Diets?
Imagine flipping through a retro cookbook; you'd see these recipes are perfect for your vegetarian or vegan friends. They're packed with flavor and completely plant-based, so you won't have to worry about any meat!
