Mediterranean Grilled Zucchini with Cumin and Olive Oil
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Grilled Zucchini recipe, infused with aromatic cumin and drizzled with rich olive oil. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main, these tender zucchini halves boast a smoky char from the grill and are seasoned to perfection. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this dish that celebrates seasonal produce, making it an ideal addition to any backyard barbecue or a healthy weeknight dinner.
4
Servings
56
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
2 (medium, 5 to 7 inches long, cut in half lengthwise)
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons (extra virgin)
Cumin
1.5 teaspoons (ground)
Salt
to taste (kosher or sea salt)
Pepper
to taste (freshly ground black pepper)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim the ends.
3
Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, exposing the seed-filled interior.
4
Using a sharp knife, create criss-cross hatches in the flesh of each zucchini half; this will help the seasoning penetrate and create a nice grill pattern.
5
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
6
Brush the seasoned olive oil mixture generously over the cut sides of the zucchini, ensuring they are well-coated.
7
Place the zucchini halves cut-side down on the hot grill. Cook for about 5 minutes, then flip them over and grill for an additional 5 minutes, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
8
Remove the zucchini from the grill and serve warm, garnished with additional olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
0.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Grilled Zucchini with Cumin and Olive Oil?
It is a simple and flavorful side dish featuring zucchini halves seasoned with cumin and olive oil, then grilled until tender and charred.
How many calories are in one serving of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 56 calories.
Is this grilled zucchini recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and also vegan-friendly as it uses only plant-based ingredients.
What type of olive oil is recommended for this dish?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor profile.
How do I prepare the zucchini for the grill?
Wash the zucchini, trim the ends, slice them in half lengthwise, and create criss-cross hatches in the flesh.
Why should I score or hatch the zucchini flesh?
Criss-cross hatching helps the cumin marinade penetrate the vegetable and creates attractive grill marks.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be preheated to medium heat.
How long does it take to cook the zucchini on the grill?
It takes about 10 minutes total: 5 minutes cut-side down and 5 minutes on the other side.
What are the main seasonings used in this recipe?
The primary seasonings are ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Is this recipe considered a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is a healthy, low-calorie side dish that highlights fresh seasonal produce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow summer squash can be used as a substitute and will cook similarly to zucchini.
Do I need to peel the zucchini before grilling?
No, the skin should be left on to help the zucchini maintain its structure on the grill.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Grilled Zucchini?
It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger vegetarian Mediterranean platter.
How do I know when the zucchini is fully cooked?
The zucchini is done when it is tender to the touch and has visible, dark grill marks.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe indoors?
Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan over medium heat to achieve similar results.
What kind of salt should I use?
Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for this recipe.
How much protein is in a serving?
There is approximately 0.75g of protein per serving.
Can I prepare the zucchini in advance?
You can slice and marinate the zucchini a short time before grilling, but it is best served immediately after cooking.
How should I store leftover grilled zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the grilled zucchini?
Freezing is not recommended as the zucchini will become very mushy upon thawing.
What size zucchini should I look for?
Medium zucchinis, roughly 5 to 7 inches long, are ideal for this recipe.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 4.5g of fat per serving, mostly coming from the heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Yes, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or mint can enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, zucchini is low in carbohydrates and the recipe uses healthy fats, making it keto-friendly.
How many zucchinis are needed for 4 servings?
You will need 2 medium-sized zucchinis.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It has a smoky, earthy, and savory flavor profile thanks to the grill char and the cumin.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, this is an easy, 5-ingredient recipe that is perfect for those new to grilling.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, this plant-based recipe is naturally cholesterol-free.