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Balsamic Grilled Zucchini

Balsamic grilled zucchini is an easy summer side with deeply caramelized, mahogany-colored grill marks. Zucchini planks are marinated in a sticky balsamic mixture, then grilled until tender and glossy with a reduction coating.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Zucchini
  • 4 zucchini Medium zucchini, halved lengthwise or sliced into 1/3-inch planks.
Balsamic Marinade
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 garlic Minced.
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • 1 salt To taste.
  • 1 black pepper To taste.
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil Torn.
  • 1 parmesan shavings For serving.

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet
  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Make the balsamic marinade
  1. Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, honey, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper together until evenly combined and glossy.
Marinate the zucchini
  1. Brush the zucchini generously with the balsamic marinade, ensuring all cut faces are coated.
  2. Let the brushed zucchini sit for 20 minutes so the marinade clings.
Grill and finish
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Grill the zucchini for 3–4 minutes per side until deep grill marks form and the balsamic caramelizes.
  3. During the last minute of grilling, brush the zucchini with extra marinade to intensify the sticky coating.
  4. Arrange the grilled zucchini on a platter and drizzle any remaining marinade over while it’s still glossy.
  5. Top with fresh basil and parmesan shavings.

Notes

For the stickiest, most caramelized coating, don’t over-oil the grates—lightly oil and grill on medium-high so the balsamic reduces on contact. Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days; reheat briefly on a hot grill pan or skillet. Freezing isn’t recommended since zucchini texture softens after thawing. For a dairy-free option, skip the parmesan shavings or substitute nutritional yeast for a similar savory finish.