There’s something magical about summer produce, and zucchini is a shining star in the spotlight. Imagine biting into smoky, tender slices of grilled zucchini, perfectly complemented by a creamy herbed whipped ricotta and crunchy walnuts. This Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts is not only a feast for your taste buds but also an effortless way to elevate your gatherings—ready in just about an hour! It’s the ideal summer side dish, adding a vibrant touch to your barbecues and an enticing option for light indoor meals. Plus, it’s vegetarian, making it a hit with everyone at the table. Curious how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive right in! Why is Grilled Zucchini a Summer Favorite? Flavor Explosion: The smoky, grilled zucchini pairs beautifully with the creamy herbed ricotta, creating a fresh and vibrant flavor profile that’s irresistible during summer months. Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a surefire hit at gatherings, appealing to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Quick & Easy: Ready in just about an hour, it’s the perfect last-minute side for barbecues or family dinners. Versatile Base: Use this recipe as a canvas; add sun-dried tomatoes or try it with different nuts like pecans for even more variety! Bright & Colorful: The mix of green and yellow zucchini, along with the rich ricotta, creates a visually stunning plate that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta Ingredients For the Grilled Zucchini • Zucchini – Use a mix of green and yellow for added color and flavor. • Kosher salt – Essential for drawing out moisture and enhancing the zucchini’s taste. • Extra-virgin olive oil – Brush on both sides for richness and to prevent sticking on the grill. For the Herbed Whipped Ricotta • Whole-milk ricotta – Offers a creamy base; low-fat ricotta can be used for a lighter option. • Feta – Adds a salty kick; substitute with goat cheese if desired. • Garlic – Grate for better integration and a strong aromatic flavor. • Lemon zest & juice – Brightens the dish; lime can be a great substitute for a twist. • Fresh basil & mint – Fresh is ideal for herbal notes, but dried can work in a pinch. For the Topping • Chopped walnuts – Provide a delightful crunch; almonds can be used if you prefer. • Cumin seeds – Elevate the dish’s earthiness; smoked paprika can be a flavorful alternative. • Flaky sea salt – Sprinkle on top for a finishing touch that enhances flavors. Transform your summer gatherings with these Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts, and watch as they become a crowd favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Begin by slicing the zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick pieces. Sprinkle each slice generously with kosher salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out moisture. This step enhances the zucchini’s flavor and ensures it remains tender when grilled. You’ll notice the zucchini releasing water, which helps concentrate its taste. Step 2: Make the Herbed Ricotta Mix In a mixing bowl, combine whole-milk ricotta, crumbled feta, grated garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whip the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Adding fresh basil and mint enhances the flavor profile. Let this herby whipped ricotta sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you move on to the next steps. Step 3: Rinse and Dry the Zucchini After 20 minutes, rinse the salted zucchini slices under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to ensure they grill properly without steaming. This is an important step for achieving that desirable char when grilling your Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts, so don’t rush it! Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil Using a brush, generously coat both sides of each zucchini slice with extra-virgin olive oil. This helps to prevent sticking on the grill and adds a rich flavor. As you prepare the grill to medium-high heat, make sure the olive oil glistens on the zucchini, indicating they’re ready for grilling. Step 5: Grill the Zucchini Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the zucchini slices onto the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they appear tender with beautiful grill marks, achieving a perfect smoky flavor. Avoid overcrowding the grill for even cooking, and consider grilling in batches if necessary. Step 6: Assemble the Dish Once your zucchini slices are perfectly grilled, remove them and arrange them on a serving platter. Spread the creamy herbed ricotta mixture liberally over each grilled zucchini piece. The warm zucchini will melt the ricotta slightly, creating a delightful texture and flavor combination for your Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts. Step 7: Toast the Walnuts In a small pan over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring regularly until they become fragrant and lightly golden. This adds a nutty crunch that complements the creamy ricotta and tender zucchini. Be careful not to let them burn! Step 8: Garnish and Serve Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the zucchini and ricotta mixture. Add a light sprinkle of cumin seeds and flaky sea salt to finish. The balance of crunchy, creamy, and earthy flavors makes this Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts a truly memorable summer side. Serve warm or at room temperature, and relish the delightful burst of summer flavors with every bite! What to Serve with Herbed Grilled Zucchini with Whipped Ricotta and Walnuts Imagine a summer evening filled with laughter, delicious aromas wafting through the air, and your table adorned with vibrant dishes that tease your taste buds. Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy and tangy, this chicken complements the herbaceous notes of the zucchini and ricotta while enhancing the overall summer vibe. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of fluffy quinoa, diced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes brings a light crunch and bright flavors that harmonize beautifully with the creamy dip. Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and buttery richness that balances the zucchini’s smokiness and creaminess. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc invigorates the palate, perfectly cutting through the richness of the whipped ricotta while enhancing the dish’s fresh flavors. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, caramelized tomatoes provide a burst of flavor and a juicy contrast, making each bite a delightful surprise alongside the grilled zucchini. Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges add a satisfying crunch and heartiness to the meal, creating the ideal cozy pairing with the light summer dish. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs and lemon zest complements the dish’s flavors, making it a fantastic sidekick on your summer table. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt sauce brings a refreshing element that perfectly contrasts the smoky zucchini, adding an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist. Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts Variations Feel free to get creative and put your own twist on this delicious dish—exploring different flavors and textures is part of the fun! Creamy Swap: Use cream cheese instead of ricotta for a richer, denser spread. This gives a delightful tanginess that enhances the dish. Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes to the ricotta mix. This infusion of flavor adds a sweet and savory element that complements the zucchini beautifully. Nutty Twist: Switch to pecans or pistachios for an exciting crunch, bringing a different earthiness and flavor profile to the dish. Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the ricotta for a hint of heat. This small addition elevates the dish’s flavor, giving it an exciting edge. Herb Blend: Experiment with dried spices like oregano or thyme instead of fresh herbs. They provide a different taste while still keeping the dish vibrant. Vegan Option: Replace ricotta and feta with tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a satisfying vegan version. It captures the creamy texture you’ll love while staying plant-based. Zesty Citrus: Substitute lime for lemon juice and zest; it gives a fresh twist that brightens the flavors in a whole new way. Grilled Veggie Medley: Combine other veggies like eggplant or bell peppers alongside the zucchini for a colorful and diverse platter, adding even more summer flavor to your meal. With so many variations to choose from, you’re bound to keep this dish fresh and exciting! Don’t forget to pair it with a lovely grilled salmon burger or some grilled chicken for a complete summer feast. Make Ahead Options These Grilled Zucchini with Herby Whipped Ricotta and Walnuts are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can slice and salt the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop without losing quality. The herbed ricotta can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving to enhance its creaminess. When you’re ready to grill, rinse and pat the zucchini dry, brush with olive oil, and grill as directed for fresh, smoky notes. Toast the walnuts right before serving to keep them crunchy—your guests will love the effortless, gourmet touch! Expert Tips for Grilled Zucchini Uniform Slices: Cut zucchini evenly into 1/8″ thick pieces for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked. Salting Process: Don’t rush the salting step; let zucchini sit for at least 20 minutes. This draws out moisture, enhancing both flavor and texture when grilled. Grilling Space: Avoid overcrowding the grill. If necessary, grill in batches to ensure even cooking and that those gorgeous grill marks develop on each slice. Rest the Ricotta: Allow the herbed ricotta mixture to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, making your Grilled Zucchini with Ricotta & Walnuts even more delicious. Toast Carefully: When toasting walnuts, keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Stir regularly until they’re fragrant and lightly golden, adding the perfect crunch to your dish. How to Store and Freeze Grilled Zucchini Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Zucchini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cool before sealing to avoid condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last about 3 months. Reheating: Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This preserves the zucchini’s texture and flavor beautifully. Layering: When storing, consider placing parchment paper between layers of zucchini to maintain their shape and prevent them from sticking together. Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe zucchini? Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for firm, glossy skins without any dark spots. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. Aim for smaller to medium-sized zucchini, as they tend to be sweeter and more flavorful than their larger counterparts. How should I store leftovers of Grilled Zucchini? To keep your leftover Grilled Zucchini fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. For best results, reheat gently on a grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Can I freeze grilled zucchini? Yes, you can freeze the grilled zucchini! Start by laying the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their best quality for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to avoid sogginess. What if my zucchini gets mushy during grilling? Very! If your zucchini turns mushy, it often means it was either overcooked or not salted properly prior to grilling. Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly and follow the salting step to draw out excess moisture. If you’re grilling larger slices, keep an eye on the cooking time, ensuring they grill just until tender with great grill marks. Are there any dietary considerations for Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts? Definitely! This recipe is vegetarian and can be made suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals by substituting the ricotta and feta with plant-based alternatives. Additionally, ensure that the nuts used are safe for anyone with nut allergies—sunflower seeds can be a great substitute for walnuts if that’s the case. How long do I need to marinade the ricotta mixture? I often recommend letting the herbed ricotta mixture sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts. Enjoy your cooking experience! Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts for a Summer Feast Grilled Zucchini With Ricotta & Walnuts is a delightful summer side dish featuring smoky zucchini, creamy herbed ricotta, and crunchy walnuts. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Grilled Zucchini3 medium Zucchini Use a mix of green and yellow for added color.1 tsp Kosher salt Essential for drawing out moisture.2 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil Brush on both sides.For the Herbed Whipped Ricotta1 cup Whole-milk ricotta Offers a creamy base.1/2 cup Feta Adds a salty kick; substitute with goat cheese if desired.2 cloves Garlic Grated for better integration.1 tbsp Lemon zest Brightens the dish.2 tbsp Lemon juice Fresh is ideal.1/4 cup Fresh basil Chopped for herbal notes.1/4 cup Fresh mint Chopped for herbal notes.For the Topping1/2 cup Chopped walnuts Provide a delightful crunch.1 tsp Cumin seeds Elevate the dish’s earthiness.1 tsp Flaky sea salt Finish the dish. Equipment Grillmixing bowlBrushPanserving platter Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSlice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick pieces and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let sit for 20 minutes.In a bowl, mix ricotta, feta, grated garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whip until smooth, then stir in fresh basil and mint. Let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse the zucchini slices under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side until tender. Arrange grilled zucchini on a platter and spread the herbed ricotta over each piece. Toast chopped walnuts in a pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle over the dish. Finish by adding cumin seeds and flaky sea salt. Serve warm or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesCut zucchini evenly for consistent cooking. Allow the herbed ricotta to sit for 15 minutes for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
