Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers (Printable version)
Grilled zucchini and peppers brushed with garlic butter, parsley and lemon for an easy, flavorful summer side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 - 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
03 - 1 small red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks (optional)
→ Garlic Butter
04 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
→ For Skewers & Garnish
10 - 8 wooden or metal skewers
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving
# How to Prepare:
01 - If utilizing wooden skewers, immerse in water for at least 20 minutes to minimize burning during grilling.
02 - Set grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute until aromatic. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Alternately thread zucchini rounds, bell pepper pieces, and red onion chunks onto each skewer.
05 - Brush vegetables on skewers generously with half of the garlic butter mixture.
06 - Position skewers on the grill. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side, turning intermittently, until vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
07 - Remove skewers from grill. Immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter for optimal flavor penetration.
08 - Arrange cooked skewers on a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve while warm.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- Brushing the veggies with garlic butter makes each bite feel like a little summer celebration.
- They're easy to prep in advance and always get that 'wow' when served straight from the grill.
02 -
- Trying to rush the grilling means you’ll end up with raw zucchini or burnt exteriors—patience brings out tenderness and flavor.
- Lemon zest in the garlic butter was a happy accident; now I never make it without that citrusy lift.
03 -
- If you chill the garlic butter for a few minutes before brushing, it clings to the veggies better instead of running off.
- Fresh herbs at the end (like basil or dill) can totally change the vibe for different meals.