Grilled Zucchini with Lemon Labneh and Zaatar
It is about this time of year that my freezer is full of zucchini bread. I am looking for ways to creatively use up the rest of the 20+ zucchini that are waiting to be picked. And it's still 90 degrees. That's where this grilled zucchini dish comes into play. The lemon and labneh along with the za'atar make this a simple yet flavorful side dish.
It is about this time of year that my freezer is full of zucchini bread. I am looking for ways to creatively use up the rest of the 20+ zucchini that are waiting to be picked. And it's still 90 degrees. That's where this grilled zucchini dish comes into play. The lemon and labneh along with the za'atar make this a simple yet flavorful side dish.
- Carbohydrate 2.62134583395383 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.24660000048245 g
- Fiber 0.870166687509865 g
- Protein 0.820191666693988 g
- Saturated Fat 0.18003333339995 g
- Serving Size 1 1 to 4 side serving (109g)
- Sodium 152.003750000082 mg
- Sugar 1.75117914644396 g
- Trans Fat 0.067238333346398 g
- Calories 22 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Trim ends off zucchini and cut zucchini in half, horizontally. Take each half, cut in half lengthwise and then cut each zucchini pieces into 3 or 4 wedges. Alternatively, you can cut the zucchini into 1/4" thick slices but I prefer the wedges. Toss with olive oil and place on the hot grill. Cook on each side for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once. Zucchini should have nice grill marks and be cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix together the labneh, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt.
- Before serving, drizzle the labneh with olive oil and sprinkle the zucchini and labneh with za'atar.
Grilled Zucchini with Lemon Labneh and Za'atar: A Summer Side Dish
Summer is in full swing, and my garden is overflowing with zucchini! I've already made countless batches of zucchini bread, zucchini muffins, and even zucchini noodles, but I was still searching for a new way to use this abundant summer squash. The result? This incredibly simple yet flavorful grilled zucchini recipe, perfect as a side dish for any summer barbecue or a light lunch.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best dishes are the ones that let the fresh, vibrant flavors of the ingredients shine. Grilling the zucchini adds a delightful smoky char, enhancing its natural sweetness. The creamy labneh, tangy lemon, and aromatic za'atar create a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that complement the grilled zucchini perfectly.
Why this recipe works:
- Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cooking time. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous summer gatherings.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of grilled zucchini, lemon, labneh, and za'atar is a summer flavor explosion. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying taste.
- Versatility: This side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats and fish to vegetarian options. It's equally delicious served warm or at room temperature.
- Healthy and Light: This recipe is a healthy and light side dish, perfect for those mindful of their caloric intake or looking for lighter summer options.
Tips and Variations:
- Zucchini Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of zucchini. Yellow zucchini would add a beautiful color contrast to the dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of za'atar to your liking. If you prefer a more intense flavor, add a little extra. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as sumac or oregano.
- Labneh Substitute: If you can't find labneh, you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or even a creamy ricotta cheese. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
- Grill or Pan: While grilling gives the zucchini a lovely smoky char, you can also pan-fry or roast the zucchini if you don't have a grill.
- Make it a Meal: For a complete meal, add grilled halloumi cheese or some chickpeas to the zucchini.
This grilled zucchini recipe is more than just a side dish; it's a celebration of summer's bounty. The simple combination of fresh ingredients creates a dish that's both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. It’s the perfect way to showcase the best of summer produce and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal.
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe is a great starting point for exploring other ways to use zucchini. Try adding it to salads, pasta dishes, or fritters. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and combinations. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!
