Description
A fresh and flavorful summer side dish featuring thick slices of grilled zucchini tossed with a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil, topped with optional toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Zucchini
- 3 large zucchinis
Vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Toppings
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced
- Pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into thick rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Lay the slices out on a tray lined with paper towels. Sprinkle salt over each slice and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Prepare the vinaigrette: While the zucchini rests, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined. Set aside.
- Grill the zucchini: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil. Place the slices on the hot grill and cook for 3 minutes per side, or until tender and marked with grill lines. Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving tray or bowl.
- Toss: Gently toss the grilled zucchini with the crumbled feta, fresh basil, and the lemon-garlic vinaigrette until evenly coated.
- Serve: Arrange the zucchini on a platter or keep them in the bowl. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top if desired, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Salting the zucchini beforehand helps prevent sogginess by removing excess water.
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Grilling can also be done on a grill pan or stovetop skillet if an outdoor grill is not available.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a fresh side for summer meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
