Grilled Zucchini with Goat Cheese, Basil, and Honey is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases fresh summer produce. The smoky grilled zucchini serves as the perfect base for the creamy goat cheese, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of sweet honey.
Grilled Zucchini with Goat Cheese,
Equipment
- Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small whisk or spoon
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Grill the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini slices on the hot grill.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
- Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the grilled zucchini slices on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the zucchini.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
- Step 4: Drizzle with Honey
- Using a small spoon, drizzle honey lightly over the zucchini, goat cheese, and basil.
- Serve immediately while the zucchini is warm, allowing the cheese to slightly melt.
- Recipe Tips
- Zucchini Choice: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis; larger ones may have tougher seeds and less flavor.
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or ricotta if goat cheese isn’t your favorite.
- Honey Variation: For a twist, use flavored honey such as lavender or chili-infused honey.
- What to Serve With This Recipe
- Pair this dish with grilled chicken, salmon, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. It also complements crusty bread or pasta dishes beautifully.
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can grill the zucchini in advance, but assemble with cheese, basil, and honey just before serving.
- Is there a vegan version? Replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and honey with maple syrup.
- Can I use other herbs? Yes! Fresh mint or parsley can be used instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish warm or at room temperature. For extra flair, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed nuts like walnuts or pistachios. Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a citrus spritzer for a delightful summer treat.
Whether you’re serving it as a light appetizer, side dish, or even a vegetarian main, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its flavor-packed simplicity.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small whisk or spoon
- Serving platter
Ingredients Overview
- Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis provide a mild base to highlight the toppings.
- Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy, this cheese balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Honey: A light drizzle ties the flavors together with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Grill the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini slices on the hot grill.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the grilled zucchini slices on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the zucchini.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
Step 4: Drizzle with Honey
- Using a small spoon, drizzle honey lightly over the zucchini, goat cheese, and basil.
- Serve immediately while the zucchini is warm, allowing the cheese to slightly melt.
Recipe Tips
- Zucchini Choice: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis; larger ones may have tougher seeds and less flavor.
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or ricotta if goat cheese isn’t your favorite.
- Honey Variation: For a twist, use flavored honey such as lavender or chili-infused honey.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair this dish with grilled chicken, salmon, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. It also complements crusty bread or pasta dishes beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? You can grill the zucchini in advance, but assemble with cheese, basil, and honey just before serving.
Is there a vegan version? Replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and honey with maple syrup.
Can I use other herbs? Yes! Fresh mint or parsley can be used instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm or at room temperature. For extra flair, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed nuts like walnuts or pistachios. Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a citrus spritzer for a delightful summer treat.
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