Grilled zucchini with dry rub
Deel
Courgette is one of the easiest and most delicious vegetables to grill. With a good dry rub and direct heat, you get grilled slices with beautiful caramelization, a light smoky flavor, and a deep taste. Quick to prepare, always popular.
→ Vegetarian BBQ — vegetables, tofu & more on the grill
Why zucchini on the BBQ?
Zucchini has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly absorbs whatever you add to it. On the grill, the sugars caramelize and a light smoky flavor develops. With a dry rub, you add character — from smoky-sweet to spicy and aromatic.
→ BBQ rub on vegetables — how to do it right
01 — Preparation
Slice the zucchini into 1 cm thick pieces — diagonally or lengthwise for more surface area. Brush generously with olive oil and apply your rub. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Pro tip: Slice lengthwise for longer pieces that are less likely to fall through the grate. Use a grill basket or grill pan if the pieces are small.
02 — Which rub goes well with zucchini?
- Shawarma — warm and aromatic, perfect for a Middle Eastern BBQ evening. More about Shawarma rub
- Tex-Mex — cumin and chili provide a spicy kick. More about Tex-Mex rub
- Korean — gochugaru and sesame for a unique Asian flavor
- Memphis — sweet-smoky and accessible to everyone
→ Which BBQ rub goes with which dish?
03 — On the BBQ
- Heat the BBQ to direct heat, 200–220°C
- Place the slices on the grate and leave for 3–4 minutes without moving
- Flip and grill for another 2–3 minutes
- Serve immediately — zucchini is best hot off the grill
→ Direct vs indirect heat — when to use what?
Serving
Delicious with a squeeze of lemon, some fresh herbs (mint or basil) or a yogurt sauce. As a side dish, zucchini pairs perfectly with chicken, lamb or fish on the BBQ.