Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Looking for a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy summer’s bounty? Look no further than this easy and versatile recipe: Brush Zucchini With Oil. With just a few basic ingredients like zucchini, olive oil, and herbs, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you serve it as a side or a main course, these brushed zucchinis are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

I first discovered this recipe during a summer when my garden was overflowing with zucchinis, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The best part is, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. From different cheese combinations to unique toppings like artichokes and capers, the possibilities are endless. Plus, leftovers can easily be stored and reheated for a quick and tasty meal the next day.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for a delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce, Brush Zucchini With Oil is a must-try recipe. So, grab your favorite toppings, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that celebrates the flavors of summer in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and healthy side dish or meal option
• Versatile – can be served as a rustic appetizer, a shareable starter, or a low-carb pizza stand-in
• Easy to customize with various toppings for endless variety
• Can be made with alternative vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms

Why You’ll Love This Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe Recipe

• *Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**
• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Versatile – you can customize the toppings according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• A great way to use up excess zucchini from the garden or when in season.
• Family-friendly – even picky eaters enjoy this dish and often come back for seconds.
• Can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a low-carb pizza alternative.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and still taste great when reheated.
• Celebrates the flavors of the season with fresh summer produce and Mediterranean-inspired toppings.
• Offers endless variety by trying different toppings each time you make it.
• The combination of melted cheese, herbs, and olive oil creates a deliciously savory dish.
• Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional appetizers or side dishes.

Ingredients for Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Core Components

• 2 g fine sea salt
• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 g freshly ground black pepper
• 15 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 g dried Italian herbs
• 2 g garlic powder
• 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced
• 40 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

Pro Tips for Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider marinating the zucchini slices in the olive oil mixture for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the zucchini to absorb more of the seasoning, resulting in a more flavorful end product.

Pro Tip 2: Get creative with the toppings! Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and additional ingredients like artichokes, capers, or roasted red peppers to personalize this dish to your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile and can accommodate a wide range of flavor combinations.

Pro Tip 3: For a nice presentation, layer the zucchini slices in a slightly overlapping pattern on a baking sheet before adding the toppings. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also ensures that each bite has a good balance of flavors. Remember to bake until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly for a delicious finish.

How to Make Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Zucchini

Preheat oven to 200°C. Wash and dry zucchini. Trim ends, then slice lengthwise into 1 cm thick pieces.

Step 2: Season Zucchini

Place zucchini slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush slices with olive oil.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Evenly sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs over the oiled zucchini.

Step 4: Top with Tomato and Cheese

Arrange zucchini slices in a layer, top with tomato slices, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Place tray in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish of Brushed Zucchini with Oil, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat the dish in a toaster oven or hot skillet to crisp up the edges and revive the flavors. If using sturdier vegetables like portobello mushrooms, they hold up even better on the second day, making for a tasty leftover option.

For a twist on the recipe, consider using alternative vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms if zucchini is not available. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheese options such as smoked gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor profile. These versatile zucchini slices can be served warm as a side dish, a shareable starter, or even incorporated into sandwiches for a delicious lunch option.

Overall, this dish captures the essence of summertime produce and Mediterranean flavors. Explore a variety of toppings with each preparation for a fresh and exciting experience every time you make this dish. Remember to have fun with different oils, cheeses, and toppings to create a personalized version of this classic recipe that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the season.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have zucchini available, you can substitute it with thick eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms for a similar texture and taste. These veggies work well as a base and will absorb the flavors beautifully during cooking. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses you have on hand, such as smoked gouda, cheddar, or even swiss, to add a unique and bold flavor profile to your dish.

For a twist on the original recipe, try using different oils like avocado oil or chili-infused oil instead of extra-virgin olive oil. These variations can add a distinct taste to your dish. You can also customize the toppings by incorporating ingredients like roasted red pepper, pesto, bacon bits, olives, or fresh basil for added richness and flavor complexity. Remember, the key is to be creative and use what you have available to make this dish your own while celebrating the flavors of the season.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive way to serve this brushed zucchini with oil dish at your next gathering, create a DIY zucchini bar! Set up a station with various toppings like different cheeses (mozzarella, parmesan, feta), fresh herbs, chopped artichokes, capers, and even some chopped bacon bits. Let your guests customize their zucchini slices before baking them in the oven for a communal and delicious experience.

Another creative serving suggestion is to turn this zucchini dish into a zesty summer pizza alternative. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each zucchini slice, then top with the shredded mozzarella and your favorite pizza toppings like sliced tomatoes and fresh basil. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a low-carb pizza treat that’s light and bursting with flavor.

FAQs for Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use a variety of cheeses like parmesan, feta, cheddar, swiss, or Monterey Jack as they all melt well and complement the flavors of zucchini.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a toaster oven or hot skillet so the edges crisp up again.

What other vegetables can I use instead of zucchini?

If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can use thick eggplant or portobello mushrooms as a perfect substitute. Portobello mushrooms hold up well as leftovers and soak up flavors beautifully in this recipe.

Can I customize the toppings for this dish?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different toppings every time to create endless varieties. Try Italian spice blends, roasted red pepper, pesto, bacon bits, olives, or fresh basil for extra richness and flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, brushing zucchini with oil is a simple yet versatile cooking technique that brings out the best flavors of this summer vegetable. Whether you stick to classic toppings like mozzarella and herbs or get creative with your own variations, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, spices, and vegetables to create your own signature twist on this recipe.

Remember, this dish is perfect for using up whatever ingredients you have on hand and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. So next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious side dish or appetizer, give this recipe a try and let your creativity shine. Brush zucchini with oil and watch it transform into a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring the flavors of the season!

Savory Grilled Zucchini Recipe

“Simple yet versatile, brush zucchini with oil for a quick, healthy side dish or a shareable appetizer bursting with the flavors of summer.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time25 Minutes

CuisineMediterranean

Skill LevelEasy

Servings2 Servings (Serves as a side for 2 people)

Ingredients

Core Components

• 2 g fine sea salt
• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 g freshly ground black pepper
• 15 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 g dried Italian herbs
• 2 g garlic powder
• 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced
• 40 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Prepare Zucchini: Preheat oven to 200°C. Wash and dry zucchini. Trim ends, then slice lengthwise into 1 cm thick pieces.
2. Season Zucchini: Place zucchini slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush slices with olive oil.
3. Add Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs over the oiled zucchini.
4. Top with Tomato and Cheese: Arrange zucchini slices in a layer, top with tomato slices, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake: Place tray in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.