BBQ Grilled Zucchini Recipe: Charred Edges with Smoky Sweetness

I’ve perfected this BBQ grilled zucchini recipe over years of summer cookouts. 🔥 The key is achieving that perfect char while keeping the inside tender. I grill the zucchini at 400°F for 3-4 minutes per side, until it develops those beautiful grill marks.

This smoky side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. The natural sweetness of the zucchini caramelizes on the grill, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve alongside your favorite BBQ favorites for a complete summer meal.

Ingredients for Bbq Zucchini Recipe Grilled

Simple summer ingredients come together in this delicious grilled zucchini recipe.

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For the best flavor, choose firm, vibrant zucchini. Farmers markets often have the best selection. If your zucchini is particularly large, you can scoop out some of the seeds before slicing. I like to use a mix of green and yellow zucchini for visual appeal.

No smoked paprika? Regular paprika works, but add a dash of liquid smoke for that BBQ flavor. You can also substitute the smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a spicier kick. Fresh thyme or oregano can replace parsley if you prefer a different herb.

Leftover grilled zucchini keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet for best results. You can also chop it up and add to salads or pasta dishes for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Zucchini

Mastering this simple yet impressive side dish is easier than you think. Let’s get started!

🔥 Step 1: Prep the Zucchini and Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, slice the 4 whole Medium Zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds. I like to use a mandoline for consistent thickness, but a sharp knife works too. Place the sliced zucchini in a large bowl.

Drizzle the 0.25 cup Olive Oil over the zucchini and toss to coat evenly. The oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning on the grill. Sprinkle the 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, and 1 tsp Smoked Paprika over the top, then toss again until the zucchini is evenly coated.

🍳 Step 2: Grill to Perfection

Once your grill is hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the grates. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your grill size. I usually grill about half the zucchini at a time. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until you get nice grill marks and the zucchini is tender but still crisp.

While grilling, sprinkle the 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced) over the zucchini. The heat will release their flavor and infuse the dish. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the amount or brush the grates with garlic-infused oil before adding the zucchini.

🥘 Step 3: Finish and Serve

Once the zucchini is grilled to your liking, transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle the 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) over the top for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve the grilled zucchini hot, with the 4 whole Lemon Wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the top just before serving adds a bright, tangy contrast to the smoky grilled zucchini.

This BBQ grilled zucchini makes a fantastic side dish for your summer barbecues. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with grilled meats, and the simple preparation makes it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

Make-Ahead Tips for This Dish

Advance Preparation Tips

To save time on grilling day, slice the zucchini and prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store the sliced zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also mix the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper together in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use. 🔥

Make-Ahead Marinating

For maximum flavor, marinate the sliced zucchini for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Just be sure to pat the zucchini dry with paper towels before grilling to prevent excess moisture.

Grill Preparation

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while you’re finishing up any last-minute prep. Make sure your grill grates are clean and brush them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. I like to use a cast-iron grill pan for even heating and those perfect grill marks.

Batch Grilling Strategy

If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider grilling the zucchini in batches. Grill the first batch until they’re nicely marked, then transfer them to a platter and cover with foil to keep warm. This way, you can serve everything hot at once without having to juggle multiple platters.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover grilled zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the zucchini on the grill for a minute or two on each side until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. You can also chop it up and add it to salads or pasta dishes for extra flavor. 🌿