If summer had a signature side dish, this might be it. Whether you’re grilling out with friends, pulling together a quick weeknight dinner, or just using up that zucchini bounty, this recipe delivers in every way. Lightly charred zucchini gets topped with tangy goat cheese, fresh basil, and a sweet honey finish that feels gourmet but takes almost no effort.
This is the kind of healthy side dish you can whip up on a whim, yet it tastes like something from your favorite farm-to-table bistro. It’s colorful, fresh, and perfect alongside everything from grilled salmon to burgers.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese
- The easiest way to enjoy summer grilled vegetables
- Combines creamy, tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors
- A quick, elegant, and healthy side dish
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
Ingredients
- 5 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch pieces
- Salt (for draining and seasoning)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1.5 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey
- Trim zucchini ends and slice lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices.
- Lay zucchini on a board and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 20 minutes to draw out water, then pat dry.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush both sides of the zucchini with oil.
- Grill 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender with grill marks.
- Arrange on a serving plate. Top with goat cheese and basil, drizzle with honey, and season with salt and pepper.
Tips for Perfect Honey Basil Zucchini
- Salt and dry thoroughly to avoid soggy slices.
- Don’t skip the honey—it balances the tang of the goat cheese beautifully.
- Add a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm zucchini and cool toppings.
Why This Dish is a Summer Staple in Olivia’s Kitchen
This dish came to life during a week of grilling everything in sight (seriously, if it could be grilled, I tried it). But this combo? It was a hit with my whole family. The creamy goat cheese and honey drizzle turned a humble vegetable into a dish worthy of guests. It’s now my signature when I want to impress without stress.
What to Serve With This Healthy Side Dish
It’s a perfect companion to grilled chicken, fish, or steak. Or serve it as part of a veggie platter with hummus and pita. For a light meal, layer it onto crusty bread or serve it over a bed of greens with lemon vinaigrette.
How to Store and Reheat
This dish is best fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or enjoy cold as a salad topper. Wait to add goat cheese and honey until just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use another cheese?
Yes, try feta or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
It can be! Use less honey or a low-carb sweetener.
Can I make this ahead?
Grill the zucchini ahead, but assemble with cheese, basil, and honey just before serving.
The Summer Grilled Vegetables Dish You’ll Make on Repeat
Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey is fresh, flavorful, and fabulous with just about everything. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for a dinner party. Add this to your summer rotation and let your grill do the magic.
Print
Sweet, Savory, and Smoky: Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grilled Zucchini With Goat Cheese, Basil & Honey is a light, flavorful summer side dish featuring smoky grilled zucchini slices topped with creamy goat cheese, fresh basil, and a sweet drizzle of honey. This elegant yet easy recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats or stands on its own as a vibrant vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
-
5 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch pieces
-
Salt (for draining and seasoning)
-
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
-
1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
-
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
-
1.5 tbsp honey
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Trim the ends of the zucchinis and slice them lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick strips.
-
Lay slices flat, sprinkle with salt, and let rest for 20 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry thoroughly.
-
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
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Brush both sides of zucchini slices with oil.
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Grill for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and nicely charred.
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Transfer to a serving plate. Top with crumbled goat cheese and chopped basil, drizzle with honey, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Salting and drying the zucchini helps avoid sogginess.
The honey adds a perfect balance to the tangy goat cheese.
Spice it up with a pinch of red chili flakes.
Best served warm with toppings added fresh.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (includes salting)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American