Description
This Grilled Zucchini with Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey recipe is a delightful and fresh appetizer or side dish perfect for warm weather. Tender, smoky zucchini slices are enhanced with creamy goat cheese, fragrant basil, and a touch of sweet honey, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 5 medium zucchinis
- Salt, to liberally season and to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1.5 Tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Remove the ends from the zucchinis and slice each one lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a plate or cutting board and generously sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat the slices dry thoroughly using a clean cloth or paper towels.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to create grill marks and properly cook the zucchini without sticking.
- Oil the zucchini slices: Brush olive oil or avocado oil onto both sides of each zucchini slice. This will help prevent sticking and enhance the grilling process.
- Grill the zucchini: Place the zucchini slices on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Grill until the zucchini becomes tender and marked with grill lines, but be careful not to overcook to avoid mushiness.
- Assemble and serve: Remove the grilled zucchini from the heat and arrange on a serving platter. Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and freshly chopped basil. Drizzle honey over the top, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Salting the zucchini before grilling helps to remove excess moisture, preventing sogginess and allowing for better grilling texture.
- You can substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different but complementary flavor.
- Use fresh basil for the best aroma and taste; dried basil will not provide the same freshness.
- Adjust honey amount according to your sweetness preference.
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours and gently reheated.
