Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Get ready to fire up your grill and celebrate the season with this Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe! This is my go-to side dish every year when barbecue season comes around, and I promise you, it will convert even the most ardent zucchini skeptics. These zucchini rounds get perfectly charred, kissed with just the right balance of garlic and herbs, and finished with a pop of freshness. There’s nothing fussy here—just honest, fresh flavor that complements any cookout spread. Whether you’re throwing a huge backyard bash or having a laid-back family dinner, this Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe deserves a spot on your grill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magic about simple ingredients coming together to create pure summer bliss! Each ingredient in this Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe matters—a handful of pantry staples work together to draw out the zucchini’s natural sweetness, amp up the flavor, and make it look seriously picnic-worthy.

• 2 medium zucchinis: Choose zucchinis that are firm and unblemished; they’ll deliver the best flavor and texture on the grill.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil keeps the zucchini from sticking and helps deliver a gorgeous char.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Bring that punchy, savory kick without overpowering the delicate veggies.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for drawing out the zucchini’s moisture and balancing the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
• Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), for garnish: These give the finished dish a lively, vibrant finish—think of them as the confetti on your cookout plate!

How to Make Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Take a moment to scrub the grill grates clean—this not only prevents sticking but also ensures those beautiful grill marks we all love. A clean, hot grill gives your zucchini that irresistible sear in just minutes.

Step 2: Toss the Zucchini

While the grill is heating, slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch rounds and toss them into a big bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently toss everything together. You’ll feel the zucchini relaxing into its flavor bath, ready to soak up every bit of seasoning.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Lay the zucchini rounds directly onto the grill grates in a single layer. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, resisting the urge to move them too much. This is where the magic happens—charred edges, soft centers, and a light smokiness infusing every bite.

Step 4: Herb Finale

About a minute before they finish, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the zucchini. The herbs hit the heat and release their fragrance, turning a simple veggie into a showstopper. When the rounds are fork-tender and marked with those signature grill lines, use tongs to transfer them straight to a serving platter.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Right before serving, add an extra shower of chopped herbs and, if you like, a squeeze of lemon juice. This brightens everything up and balances the smoky richness. Gather everyone around, and get ready for the compliments!

How to Serve Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing finishes off this dish like a handful of freshly chopped basil or parsley. You can also add a flash of color with a few thinly sliced radishes or a generous sprinkle of lemon zest. For a little extra zing, serve your zucchini with wedges of lemon on the side—squeezing just a bit over the top really wakes up every flavor.

Side Dishes

The Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe is like that friend who gets along with everyone at the party! Pair these grilled rounds next to burgers, grilled chicken, sausages, or even a juicy steak. They’re just as happy mounded onto vibrant salads, next to potato salad, or as a fresh counterpoint alongside smoky baked beans.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the grilled zucchini like a colorful tower on a rustic platter, or weave them onto skewers for a kebab-style presentation. For a playful spin, lay them on a wooden board with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean vibe. These little rounds also make the best grilled veggie sliders—just stack between mini buns with a swipe of herbed mayo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers after the holiday feast? Simply let the zucchini cool to room temperature and pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic addition to weekday lunches or grain bowls.

Freezing

While this Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe tastes best when fresh, you can freeze cooked zucchini in a pinch. Arrange the cooled rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Just keep in mind they’ll soften a bit upon thawing, but they’re still perfect stirred into sauces or casseroles.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheat the zucchini in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes, or pop them under the broiler for a quick re-crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may turn them a bit mushy—unless you’re planning to toss them into a soup, then go ahead!

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works beautifully. Just preheat it thoroughly and use a bit of oil to keep everything from sticking. You’ll still get gorgeous grill marks and plenty of summery flavor.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No need to peel! The skin is tender, flavorful, and helps the rounds hold their shape during grilling. Plus, it adds lovely color contrast and an extra boost of nutrients.

Is this Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. It’s a perfect choice for all kinds of cookout guests. For an extra-decadent finish, you can always add a sprinkle of vegan cheese or regular feta to suit your crowd.

What other herbs work well as a garnish?

Fresh thyme, oregano, or dill also make fabulous garnish choices for this zucchini. Don’t hesitate to mix and match based on what you have handy or what flavors you’re in the mood for—zucchini is wonderfully versatile.

Can I double or triple the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe scales up effortlessly. Just be sure to grill the zucchini in batches so each round has enough space for those lovely char marks and doesn’t end up steaming.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a guaranteed hit at your next cookout, the Easy Memorial Day Grilled Zucchini Recipe is a celebration of summer’s best flavors—no frills, all thrill. Give it a try, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday side dish tradition. Happy grilling!

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