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Easy Grilled Zucchini and Summer Squash with Parmesan

grilled zucchini and summer squash with Parmesan - featured image

A quick and simple grilled zucchini and summer squash side dish topped with melted Parmesan cheese, perfect for summer dinners and BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick pieces
  • 2 medium summer squash (yellow or pattypan), sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick pieces
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Kosher salt or sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 5-7 minutes) until hot enough to create grill marks.
  2. Rinse the zucchini and summer squash and pat dry. Slice each lengthwise into about 1/4-inch thick strips, keeping slices even.
  3. Place the squash slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle on 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss well to coat evenly.
  4. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the hot grill or pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully with tongs, until tender with grill marks but not burnt.
  5. When the squash is nearly done and still on the grill, sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over each piece. Close the grill lid or cover loosely with foil for 1-2 minutes to let the cheese melt and form a crust.
  6. Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness.
  7. Serve warm immediately while the Parmesan is melty and the squash is tender yet crisp.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the grill or pan to avoid steaming the squash. Use fresh Parmesan cheese grated just before sprinkling for best melting and crisping. If you don’t have a grill, roast the squash at 425°F for 15 minutes and broil with Parmesan for 1-2 minutes. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled zucchini, summer squash, Parmesan, easy summer side, grilled vegetables, BBQ side dish, quick recipe