Summer grilling season is here, and these Zesty Grilled Zucchini Skewers are the perfect way to celebrate! With a smoky, citrusy marinade, they offer a refreshing twist on your typical veggie skewer. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, theyβre sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Zucchinis: These mild and versatile veggies soak up the marinade beautifully, making them the star of the dish. Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the zucchini grill to perfection. Lemon juice: Provides a refreshing zing that brightens up the overall flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder: Essential for adding depth and savoriness without overpowering the zucchini. Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor that complements the grill marks. Salt and pepper: Bring out the natural flavors of the zucchini. Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this herb at the end adds freshness and color.
These skewers shine when served alongside grilled chicken or fish. Theyβre also great with a side of couscous or quinoa salad to make it a complete meal. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a bit more lemon juice just before serving.
First things first, fire up your grill to a medium-high heat. This allows it to preheat while you get everything else ready. Now, grab those wooden skewers and soak them in water for about 10 minutes. This prevents any unwanted charring or burning while on the grill β trust me, it makes a difference!
With your skewers soaking, turn your attention to the zucchinis. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You want them all relatively the same thickness so they cook evenly. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will be your marinade.
Thread your zucchini slices onto the soaked skewers. I like to pack them in pretty tightly so they stay firm and get those lovely grill marks. Once theyβre all skewered, use a brush to generously coat them with the marinade. Make sure you cover all sides β you want every bite to be flavorful.
Place the skewers on the grill, laying them perpendicular to the grill grates. Grill them for about 5 minutes on each side, or until you see those enticing grill marks and the zucchini is tender when poked with a fork. Once done, remove them from the grill and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!