Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade
Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini, while the marinade adds a savory and slightly tangy flavor. This dish is perfect as a side, a light snack, or even a topping for salads and bowls.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy recipe that packs a punch of flavor, Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade is a great choice. It’s simple to make, requires few ingredients, and can be ready in just about 30 minutes. Plus, zucchini is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1⁄4-inch thick planks
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1⁄2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1⁄4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes.
- Place the zucchini slices in a shallow dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the zucchini for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are charred and tender.
- Transfer the zucchini to a serving plate and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped herbs. Serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade
This grilled zucchini pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side with grilled meats, on top of rice or quinoa bowls, or even mixed into salads. It can be enjoyed hot, warm, or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any meal.
How to Store Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade
If you have leftovers, you can store grilled zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade
- Cut the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t skip the marinating time; it helps the zucchini absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and honey to suit your taste preferences.
- Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
Variation
You can change up the marinade by adding fresh herbs like ginger or cilantro for an extra flavor boost. Other variations could include using different types of vinegar or swapping honey for agave syrup for a vegan option.
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! You can use similar vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or bell peppers with this marinade.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe is vegan as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Can I grill the zucchini indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Just ensure it is preheated properly for the best results.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade or drizzle some sriracha sauce on the grilled zucchini before serving.
Grilled Zucchini with Garlic-Soy Marinade is simple, flavorful, and a great way to prepare this summer vegetable. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
