Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Published: October 24, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy and Light: Packed with nutrients from zucchini and fresh herbs, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, beef, or turkey for a complete meal, or serve it as an appetizer at your next party.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of creamy goat cheese, sweet honey, and fragrant basil elevates the humble zucchini to new heights.
Perfect for Summer: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer produce while it’s at its peak freshness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling your zucchini, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Cutting board
Knife
Plate or serving platter
Clean cloth or paper towel

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful char marks and smoky flavor on your zucchini.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing your zucchini evenly.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Zucchini

5 medium zucchinis
Salt
1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

For the Topping

1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1.5 Tbsp honey
Salt + pepper, to taste

How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Remove ends from zucchini and slice into 1/2-inch pieces lengthwise.
Spread sliced zucchini onto a plate or cutting board and apply salt liberally.
Set aside for 20 minutes to allow excess water to drain.
Pat dry using a clean cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high.
Brush olive oil or avocado oil onto both sides of each zucchini slice.

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini

Place slices of zucchini onto the grill.
Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The zucchini is done when tender with visible grill marks. Avoid overcooking!

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Remove grilled zucchini from the grill and arrange on a large plate.
Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and freshly chopped basil over the top.
Drizzle with honey and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Enjoy this tasty dish while warm!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Grilled zucchini with goat cheese, basil, and honey is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side for dinner, this dish is versatile and flavorful.

As a Standalone Appetizer

Serve warm on a platter garnished with fresh basil leaves for an appealing presentation.

Pair with Grilled Meats

This dish complements grilled chicken or turkey beautifully, adding a refreshing touch to your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

Place the grilled zucchini over mixed greens and drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette for a light salad option.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Layer the zucchini in a wrap with hummus and other veggies for a nutritious lunch option.

With Crusty Bread

Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious honey and olive oil drizzles.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Achieving the perfect grilled zucchini requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

Choose Fresh Zucchini: Opt for firm zucchinis that are bright in color. Fresh vegetables yield better taste and texture.
Salt Generously: Salting the zucchini before grilling helps draw out moisture. This step ensures you achieve the ideal texture and flavor.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the zucchini. A preheated grill gives those perfect grill marks and ensures even cooking.
Watch Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the zucchini. They should be tender but still have some bite.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to adjust the amount of goat cheese or honey according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
Serve Immediately: For the best flavor experience, serve the grilled zucchini right off the grill while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

This grilled zucchini dish pairs well with many sides that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds freshness and nutrition.
Roasted Vegetables: Mixed roasted vegetables provide hearty textures and earthy flavors that balance the dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the grilled zucchini’s brightness.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives and feta adds Mediterranean flair and complexity.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory flavors from the zucchini.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf infused with herbs offers an aromatic base that complements this dish beautifully.
Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with herbs provides both texture and additional nutrition.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn enhances summertime flavors, making it a perfect match for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Salting: Not salting the zucchini can lead to watery results. Salt helps draw out excess moisture, making the zucchini firmer and more flavorful.
Overcooking: Grilled zucchini cooks quickly. Cooking it for too long can result in mushy slices. Aim for a tender texture with visible grill marks.
Skipping Oil: Failing to brush oil on the zucchini can cause it to stick to the grill. This step ensures easy flipping and enhances flavor.
Not Patting Dry: After salting, not patting the zucchini dry can lead to steam rather than grilling. Make sure to remove excess water for the best texture.
Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning after grilling can leave the dish bland. Always season with salt and pepper before serving for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently, until warm.
Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat with a touch of oil for even reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey.

Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with feta cheese or even a creamy ricotta for a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

How do I enhance flavors in Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey?

Adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes before grilling can elevate the taste without overpowering the main ingredients.

What is the best way to slice zucchini for grilling?

Slicing zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch pieces ensures even cooking and allows for better grill marks.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other toppings like cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, or different fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey is a delightful summer side dish that showcases fresh ingredients beautifully. Its simplicity allows room for customization; feel free to experiment with toppings or spices. Try this recipe today for an easy yet impressive addition to your meals!

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