Grilled Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers for Easy Summer Side

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious, healthy side dish that practically screams summer, these Grilled Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers check all the boxes. They’re fast, flavorful, and seriously foolproof. Whether you’re entertaining guests at a weekend barbecue or just trying to sneak more veggies into your dinner routine, this simple zucchini recipe delivers.

Here’s why you’ll fall for these skewers:

• Quick prep: From fridge to grill in under 15 minutes.
• Big flavor: Garlic and butter create a rich, bold taste that enhances the natural sweetness of zucchini.
• Light and healthy: A lower-carb alternative that’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
• Perfect for grilling: The grill marks add smoky char and visual appeal.
• Incredibly versatile: Serve them as a side or use them to complement anything from grilled chicken to pasta.

Have you ever found a veggie dish so good it steals the spotlight from the main course? This might be the one!

Essential Tools and Equipment

You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup for this one. Just grab a few basics to make prep a breeze:

• Cutting board and knife: For slicing the zucchini evenly.
• Mixing bowl: To toss the zucchini with garlic butter and spices.
• Skewers: Metal or soaked wooden skewers both work perfectly.
• Grill or grill pan: Gas, charcoal, or stovetop—use what you’ve got!
• Silicone brush (optional): For brushing on extra garlic butter.

Preparation Tips

Want to make your skewers even more flavorful and foolproof? Here are a few prep tips that can make all the difference:

• Use medium zucchini: Not too small, not too big. Medium ones are easier to slice and hold their shape on the grill.
• Keep slices uniform: Slicing all your zucchini pieces the same size (about 1/2 inch thick) ensures even cooking.
• Soak wooden skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Preheat your grill: Get a good sear and those iconic grill marks by starting with a hot grill.
• Prep garlic butter ahead: You can make the garlic butter up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Little tweaks like these make a world of difference in flavor and texture.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this melt-in-your-mouth veggie dish to life:

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Pro Tip: If fresh garlic isn’t your thing, use garlic powder for a more mellow flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Ready to get grilling? Follow these easy steps to whip up the perfect zucchini skewers:

1. Prep the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice into even ½-inch circles.
2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Toss the zucchini: Pour the garlic butter over the zucchini slices and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Skewer the slices: Thread about 5–6 zucchini slices per skewer, keeping a little space between each to help them cook evenly.
5. Preheat the grill: Turn your grill or grill pan to medium-high and let it heat for 5–10 minutes.
6. Grill the skewers: Place them on the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and zucchini is fork-tender.
7. Optional – Brush & garnish: Use a brush to add any leftover garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or Parmesan before serving.

The smell alone will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe can go sideways. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Overcooking the zucchini: Zucchini can turn mushy fast. Grill them just until tender with a slight bite.
• Skipping the oil or butter: This not only adds flavor but prevents sticking. Don’t go dry!
• Unsoaked wooden skewers: They catch fire if dry. Soaking is a must if you’re using them on a grill.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Pack them too tightly and they won’t cook evenly. Give each slice a little breathing room.

Avoid these pitfalls, and your skewers will come out sizzling and perfect every time.

Best Side Dishes

These zucchini skewers play well with others! Try pairing them with:

• Grilled Lemon Chicken: The bright citrus complements the earthy garlic flavor beautifully.
• Herbed Couscous: Light, fluffy, and soaks up any extra garlic butter on your plate.
• Traditional Caprese Salad: The fresh tomatoes and basil are a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Because more garlic is always a good idea.

Looking for a vegetarian feast? Combine them with grilled halloumi or a hearty bean salad.

Expert Recipe Tips

Let’s take this recipe from good to rave-worthy with a few extra tips:

• Add lemon zest: A touch of zest adds a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the butter.
• Spice it up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives it a subtle kick.
• Make it cheesy: Add crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan right before serving for major flavor.
• Use yellow squash too: Mix zucchini with summer squash for a colorful presentation.

Feel free to get creative—the garlic butter base is a flavor powerhouse that pairs well with other veggies too.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No worries—zucchini skewers are easy to store and reheat.

• To store: Cool completely and place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop into the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Not freezer-friendly: Zucchini tends to get watery and mushy if frozen and defrosted.

For best texture, reheating on the stove or grill is your best bet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! Use a stovetop grill pan or even a broiler. Just watch them carefully and flip midway for even cooking.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes! You can slice the zucchini and prep the garlic butter a day ahead. Assemble skewers right before grilling for best texture.

What herbs can I use instead of Italian seasoning?

Try dried oregano, basil, or thyme—or a combo of your favorite dried herbs. Fresh rosemary also adds a wonderful aroma.

How do I keep the zucchini from sticking to the grill?

Make sure your grill is hot and greased. Using olive oil in the garlic butter mixture also helps prevent sticking.

Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?

You bet! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mushrooms all grill beautifully and pair well with garlic butter.

Final Thoughts

Ready to make a side dish that might just steal the show? These Grilled Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are easy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just looking for a new way to enjoy summer veggies, this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite.

Give it a try, and when you do—come back and share your results in the comments. Did you try a twist? Add another veggie? We’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Don’t forget to check out our other summer sides and grilling recipes for more backyard inspiration!

Happy grilling! 🍴🔥

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Looking for more seasonal side dishes? Try our:

• Grilled Corn with Herb Butter
• Fresh Summer Tomato Salad
• Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms