Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

When summer arrives, there’s nothing quite like the joy of grilling fresh vegetables, and one of my all-time favorites is Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini. Picture yourself on a warm evening, the sun setting in the background, and the tantalizing aroma of zucchini sizzling on the grill. This dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a creamy, tangy filling that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of grilled zucchini. Every bite brings a taste of summer, reminding me of backyard barbecues with friends and family. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick yet impressive meal, Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini never disappoints. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are often found in your kitchen, making it a hassle-free choice. I love how the zucchini becomes tender while the goat cheese filling turns perfectly creamy and bubbly on the grill. Adding fresh herbs like basil elevates the dish with a burst of flavor that dances on your palate. Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe has become a staple in my summer cooking repertoire.

Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Shopping List

When it comes to making Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini, the ingredients play a pivotal role in creating a delightful dish. Freshness is key, as vibrant, in-season ingredients enhance the flavors. The star of this recipe is, of course, the zucchini, which serves as both a vessel and a flavor component. The goat cheese adds a rich creaminess, while fresh herbs elevate the dish to new heights. Together, they create a beautiful harmony that is sure to please any palate.

• 4 medium zucchini squash: The main ingredient that provides the base for the dish, offering a subtly sweet flavor and a crisp texture.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the zucchini and filling.
• Olive oil spray or olive oil for brushing: Adds moisture and helps achieve a beautiful grilled finish.
• 10 ounces goat cheese, softened: The star of the stuffing, providing a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with zucchini.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic component to the filling.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for topping: Brings a fresh, fragrant element to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that lifts the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle heat and complexity to the stuffing.
• Parmesan cheese, for topping: A delicious addition that adds a salty, umami flavor when sprinkled on top.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to create a flavorful breadcrumb topping that adds crunch.
• 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed: Further enhances the flavor of the breadcrumb topping.
• 1/3 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs: Adds a crispy texture to the finished dish.

The Process for Making Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Making Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish together. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and soon you’ll be enjoying the delicious flavors of grilled zucchini and creamy cheese.

1. Preheat your grill to the highest setting. This step is crucial as a hot grill will give the zucchini a nice char. If you have a grill with adjustable heat, aim for medium-high. The grilling process will not only cook the zucchini but also create those beautiful grill marks that enhance the presentation.

2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. You’ll want them to be even so they cook uniformly. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and place them on a baking sheet. The zucchini halves act as boats that will hold the delicious filling.

3. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the center of the zucchini halves to create a well. This step is important to ensure you have enough space for the goat cheese mixture. Don’t throw away the scooped-out zucchini; you can save it for another dish like pasta or stir-fries.

4. Sprinkle the zucchini boats all over with kosher salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor of the zucchini itself, ensuring that every bite is seasoned perfectly. This base seasoning is crucial for a well-rounded dish.

5. Next, spray or brush the zucchini with olive oil. Use enough to coat the flesh lightly, which helps to keep the zucchini moist while grilling and adds flavor.

6. In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, freshly grated lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy filling will be the star of your dish, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the flavors to your liking.

7. Now, place the zucchini on the grill, cut-side down. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes, monitoring them closely. You want them to be slightly golden and charred, which adds a lovely smoky flavor. The grilling will soften the zucchini and make it perfect for stuffing.

8. Once grilled, transfer the zucchini back to the baking sheet. Carefully scoop the goat cheese mixture into the center of each zucchini boat. Don’t be shy with the filling; pack it in generously for a delicious bite.

9. After filling them, place the zucchini back on the grill, this time stuffed side up. Close the grill lid and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. This step allows the goat cheese to become bubbly and melty, contributing to a decadent experience.

10. Remove the zucchini from the grill and sprinkle with panko bread crumbs. If desired, top with grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Finish with additional fresh basil on top. The combination of flavors and textures is unbeatable.

11. For the finishing touch, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly while it bubbles until you see brown bits forming on the bottom. Add in the minced garlic and breadcrumbs, stirring for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden and crunchy. This creates a delightful topping that enhances the texture of the dish.

12. Serve your Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini warm, and enjoy the harmony of flavors!

Making Adjustments

When it comes to making Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini, there are plenty of ways to adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for 2 to 3 days. Reheating in the oven will help retain some of the original texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed zucchini before grilling. Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw and grill as instructed.
• Pairing: These stuffed zucchini are perfect for pairing with a side salad or grilled protein for a complete meal.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley if you want to change up the flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try substituting goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor and texture.
• Adding Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding crumbled sausage or cooked quinoa into the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini is all about enhancing the delightful flavors and making the meal feel special. Here are some ideas:

• Side Dish: Pair the stuffed zucchini with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Meats: These zucchini make a fantastic side to grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.
• Lunch Option: Enjoy the leftovers cold as a tasty lunch option, perfect for picnics or brown-bagging.
• Seasonal Pairings: This dish shines in summer, but you can also serve it with roasted root vegetables in cooler months.
• Celebratory Events: It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family reunions, offering a unique and impressive option for your guests.
• Storage Tips: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini is a dish that encapsulates the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it can impress anyone at your dinner table. I encourage you to give it a try; you’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions alike. Enjoy the grilling season with this delightful recipe!

Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

The ultimate summer dish, Grilled Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini combines fresh zucchini with a rich, creamy goat cheese filling for a mouthwatering meal. Perfectly grilled, flavorful, and easy to make, this dish is ideal for warm evenings and will impress your guests!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 4 4 medium zucchini squash
• Kosher salt and pepper To taste
• Olive oil spray or olive oil for brushing For grilling
• 10 10 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 1 1 garlic clove, minced
• 0.25 ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for topping For flavor
• 2 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest For brightness
• 0.25 ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For heat
• Parmesan cheese, for topping Optional
• 2 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For topping
• 1 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed For topping
• 0.33 1/3 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs For topping

Instructions

 

• Preheat your grill to the highest setting.
• Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet.
• Scoop out the center to create a well.
• Sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper.
• Brush with olive oil.
• Mix together goat cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
• Grill the zucchini cut-side down for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Transfer to the baking sheet and fill with the goat cheese mixture.
• Grill stuffed zucchini for another 3 to 5 minutes.
• Remove and top with panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
• In a saucepan, melt butter and mix with garlic and breadcrumbs.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for 2 to 3 days. Reheating in the oven will help retain some of the original texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed zucchini before grilling. Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw and grill as instructed.
• Pairing: These stuffed zucchini are perfect for pairing with a side salad or grilled protein for a complete meal.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley if you want to change up the flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try substituting goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor and texture.
• Adding Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding crumbled sausage or cooked quinoa into the cheese mixture.

Keyword goat cheese recipes, grilled zucchini recipes, stuffed zucchini, summer side dishes

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!