WW Grilled Zucchini With Lemon-Herb Feta: A Mediterranean Delight
My Nonna Emilia, with her sun-kissed skin and hands perpetually stained with garden soil, always had a simple solution for summer’s bounty: grilling. Zucchinis, plump and vibrant, were tossed on the charcoal grill alongside peppers and eggplant, their smoky char a fragrant promise of the feast to come. This recipe, a modern take on her classic approach, sings with the same Mediterranean flavors, the bright lemon and herbaceous feta a perfect counterpoint to the zucchini’s earthy sweetness. It’s a dish that brings back the warmth of her kitchen, the laughter around the table, and the simple joy of sharing good food with loved ones.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: About 5-6 chunks zucchini and 1 tablespoon feta topping per serving
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons mint leaves, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, fresh
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 scallions, minced
- 4 zucchini, about 1.5 pounds
- 4 sprays cooking spray
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Small bowl
- Grill or grill pan
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the feta cheese, mint leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and scallions. Mix well to ensure the flavors meld together. Set aside. This vibrant feta mixture is the crowning glory of the dish, so taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Trim the ends off the zucchini and slice each in half lengthwise.
- Slice each half into 4 or 5 chunks, depending on the size of the zucchini. You want pieces that are substantial enough to hold up to grilling, about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick.
- Place the zucchini chunks on a flat surface in a single layer. This ensures even coating with the cooking spray and salt.
- Coat both sides of the zucchini with cooking spray. Then, sprinkle evenly with kosher salt. Cooking spray helps the zucchini to char nicely on the grill and prevents it from sticking. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini.
- Off heat, coat the grill rack or grill pan with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps create those beautiful grill marks.
- Heat the grill over high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving perfectly charred and tender zucchini.
- Cook the zucchini, flipping once, until grill marks are evident and the zucchini is soft, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary. The zucchini should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Arrange the grilled zucchini on a platter and top with the feta mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Marinating the Zucchini: For an extra layer of flavor, toss the zucchini slices with a tablespoon of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper before grilling. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Grill Pan Perfection: If you’re using a grill pan indoors, make sure it’s screaming hot before adding the zucchini. A cast-iron grill pan works best for even heat distribution.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure each piece of zucchini gets those beautiful grill marks and cooks evenly.
- Feta Forward: If you want a creamier feta topping, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the mix.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the feta mixture for a touch of heat.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the feta topping a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve the WW Grilled Zucchini With Lemon-Herb Feta immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture. The warm zucchini and cool, tangy feta topping create a delightful contrast. Garnish with a few extra mint leaves or a lemon wedge for a pop of color.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The grilled zucchini will soften as it sits, but it will still taste delicious.
To reheat, gently warm the zucchini in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a fresh sprinkle of feta topping before serving.
This dish is best served fresh. While freezing is possible, the zucchini will lose its texture and become quite soft upon thawing. Therefore, it is not recommended to freeze the grilled zucchini.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 43.3 kcal |
| Calories from Fat | 17 g |
| Total Fat | 1.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 6.3 mg |
| Sodium | 284.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 4.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 3.7 g |
| Protein | 2.7 g |
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan Option: Substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative or crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley in place of or in addition to the mint.
- Cheese Swaps: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Grilled Vegetables Medley: Add other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or onions to the platter for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
- Citrus Zest: Grapefruit or orange zest can be used instead of lemon zest.
- Eggplant Adaption: This topping would also be delicious on grilled eggplant and pepper.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried mint in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh mint.
Q: How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy on the grill?
A: Ensure the grill is hot before adding the zucchini and avoid overcrowding the grill. This helps to create a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
Q: Can I use a different type of cooking spray?
A: Yes, any type of cooking spray will work. Olive oil or avocado oil spray are good options.
Q: What can I serve this dish with?
A: This grilled zucchini is a perfect side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It also pairs well with salads and couscous.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the feta topping a day in advance. However, it’s best to grill the zucchini just before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe inspires you to fire up the grill and enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer! The WW Grilled Zucchini With Lemon-Herb Feta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and cheeses to create your own unique twist. And most importantly, share your creations with friends and family. Buon appetito!