Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices during a summer visit to Greece, where the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine captivated me. After perfecting the recipe in my own kitchen, I love to serve these at gatherings, sharing the joy of this simple yet delicious dish. Each bite transports me back to those sun-soaked days by the sea, making it a family favorite."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in creating appetizers that highlight fresh ingredients and bold flavors. His passion for cooking shines through in every dish, especially those that celebrate the culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. Chef Mitchell has created over 1000 recipes, continually inspiring others to explore new flavors.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices served on a plate

Why This Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and rich flavors. The zucchini's natural sweetness comes alive when grilled, and the cheese adds a creamy, savory touch that makes every bite delightful. Fresh herbs enhance the overall taste, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair.

The grilling technique not only infuses a smoky flavor but also helps to retain the zucchini's moisture, ensuring they remain tender. The contrasting textures of crispy exterior and creamy cheese make these slices irresistible, perfect for an appetizer or a side dish.

💡 Professional Tip

To achieve the best results, make sure to slice the zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Additionally, preheating the grill is crucial for getting those perfect grill marks and preventing sticking. Don't skip the lemon zest; it elevates the dish with a refreshing brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini slices and season them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. However, it’s best to grill them just before serving to ensure they are hot and the cheese is melted. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated.

If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use other cheeses such as provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. Feta cheese can also be used for a tangy twist, though it won’t melt the same way. Experimenting with different cheeses can add unique tastes to the dish.

The zucchini slices are done when they are tender and have nice grill marks. The cheese should be fully melted and bubbly. You can test the tenderness by piercing a slice with a fork; it should glide through easily.

While it’s not recommended to freeze grilled zucchini slices as they can become mushy when thawed, you can freeze the raw, seasoned zucchini before grilling. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before grilling to preserve their texture.

Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a refreshing Mediterranean salad, grilled meats, or as part of a meze platter. They also make a great accompaniment to dips like tzatziki or hummus.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven to restore their crispness.

Yes, you can slice and season the zucchini in advance, even the night before. Just store them in the refrigerator. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to grill them just before serving.

To reheat, place the zucchini slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. You can also use a toaster oven or grill them briefly to warm them up without losing texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If your grilled zucchini slices turn out dry, it may be due to overcooking or insufficient oil.

Solution: Ensure you are using enough olive oil when seasoning and keep an eye on the cooking time. Grilling for too long can cause moisture loss, so remove them once they are tender.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the zucchini slices are not crispy, they might have been too thick or not grilled at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Slice the zucchini thinner for better crisping and ensure your grill is hot before adding the slices. You can also grill them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked zucchini can become mushy and lose their pleasant texture.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep a close watch on the grilling time and test for tenderness regularly. Remove them as soon as they are tender.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the zucchini is undercooked, you may not have grilled them long enough or at the right temperature.

Recovery: For thicker slices, consider finishing them in the oven on a baking sheet after grilling to ensure even cooking throughout.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of the zucchini is burnt, it may be due to grilling at too high heat or leaving them on the grill too long.

Prevention: Adjust your grill's heat settings and monitor the cooking time closely. Avoid placing the zucchini directly over high flames.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, consider adding more salt or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To reduce saltiness, you can serve the zucchini with a splash of lemon juice or pair with a yogurt dip to mellow the flavor.

Bland: For bland zucchini, add more herbs and spices. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or citrus can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices

This recipe relies on fresh, high-quality zucchinis that are firm and vibrant in color. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis as they tend to have a better texture and flavor. Cheese is also a critical component; fresh mozzarella adds creaminess while Parmesan provides a salty kick.

Using fresh herbs such as parsley and quality olive oil elevates the dish significantly. When selecting ingredients, aim for organic or locally sourced products to enhance both flavor and nutritional value.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis with a shiny skin. Avoid those with soft spots or wrinkles, as they indicate aging. For the best flavor, use zucchinis that are about 6-8 inches long.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is the best choice for this recipe. It melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the zucchini. Look for mozzarella packed in water for the best quality.
  • Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for flavor and moisture. It not only adds richness but also aids in grilling by preventing sticking. Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
Cooking process for Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

To make Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices, start by preparing your zucchini and seasoning them well. The key is to ensure the slices are evenly coated with oil and spices for maximum flavor. Preheating the grill is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks.

Monitor the cooking closely, as zucchini cooks quickly. When adding cheese, close the grill lid to allow it to melt evenly. With the right technique, you'll achieve a tender, flavorful appetizer that everyone will love.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices

The most important technique for making perfect Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices is maintaining the right grill temperature. A medium heat allows the zucchini to cook through without burning the exterior. Additionally, evenly slicing the zucchini ensures consistent cooking, resulting in a delicious appetizer.

Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature

For the Sauce

  • 2 large zucchinis, sliced
    1/4 inch thick
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    For topping
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For topping
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For grilling
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini

    Wash and slice the zucchinis into 1/4 inch rounds. Place them in a large bowl.

  2. Season the Zucchini

    Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini. Add garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss until evenly coated.

  3. Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a grill pan, spray it lightly with cooking spray.

  4. Grill the Zucchini

    Place the zucchini slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have grill marks and are tender.

  5. Add the Cheese

    Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the grilled zucchini slices. Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

  6. Garnish

    Remove the zucchini from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest.

  7. Serve

    Serve warm as an appetizer, drizzling with fresh lemon juice for added flavor.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy your grilled cheesy zucchini slices with friends and family!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for 3-4 days. If you need to reheat them, it’s best to do so in the oven or on the grill to maintain their crisp texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Slices make a fantastic appetizer to serve at parties. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a fresh salad or dips like hummus or tzatziki for a Mediterranean feast.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add toppings like diced tomatoes or olives for extra flavor. You can also try adding a balsamic glaze drizzle for a sweet and tangy finish.