Grilled Parmesan Zucchini

This grilled zucchini with lemon and parmesan cheese is the perfect easy seasonal summer side dish. Only 10 minutes and a handful of ingredients required!

I’m always looking for new ways to serve vegetables, zucchini especially, and this onetime impromptu experiment is now a summer staple. It’s so easy to just throw on the grill alongside whatever else we’re having— grilled chicken, steak, fish or shrimp, etc. I make it all summer long!

It’s a simple, straightforward side dish, and it really is so delicious. Just zucchini spears seasoned with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, grilled till slightly charred, and topped with freshly squeeze lemon juice and parmesan cheese. You’re going to love it!

“Amazing and so easy! Thank you! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — from reader Belva

Table of Contents

• Ingredients you’ll need
• How to make grilled parmesan zucchini
• How to avoid mushy cooked zucchini
• More zucchini recipes
• Get the recipe

Ingredients you’ll need

Here’s what you need for this grilled zucchini recipe (full recipe at the end of this article):

• Zucchini squash (I prefer to use zucchini that are on the small or medium size)
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh lemon juice
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Optional flavor add-ons: fresh basil, red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts or other nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze or pesto.

How to make grilled parmesan zucchini

This side dish couldn’t be easier! It’s done in less than 10 minutes.

1. Cut zucchini into spears. Slicing them this way ensures they’re large enough to not fall through the grill grates, and easier to flip.
2. Add seasoning. Combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning and a generous amount of salt and pepper and toss with zucchini and olive oil.
3. Grill. Grill zucchini over medium high heat for just a few minutes on each side, until slightly tender and a little charred. Don’t overcook!
4. Top with lemon juice and parmesan cheese. Immediately squeeze the juice of ½ a lemon over the zucchini and top with shredded or grated parmesan cheese.
5. Enjoy! Serve right away alongside the rest of your meal.

How to avoid mushy cooked zucchini

The key to getting the right texture with zucchini and avoid mushiness (yuck!) is to avoid overcooking it. The zucchini should soften and tenderize on the outside, but still have a satisfying al dente bite to it. It needs only a minutes or two on each side, depending on size and heat level. Keep a close eye on it and you’ll be golden!

More zucchini recipes

• Fried Zucchini Chips
• Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats
• Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Get the recipe