How To Cut Up Zucchini For Grilling

To cut up zucchini for grilling, you want thick, sturdy planks or spears that won’t fall through the grates.
 
The goal is simple: maximize surface area for those beautiful char marks while keeping the zucchini from turning to mush.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to cut up zucchini for grilling without ending up with soggy, disintegrated slices, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cut up zucchini for grilling, the best thickness for grilling zucchini, and a few tips to keep them crisp and flavorful.
 
Let’s get grilling.
 

How to Cut Up Zucchini for Grilling

Learning how to cut up zucchini for grilling starts with choosing the right shape and size for your grill.
 
Here’s the breakdown:
 

1. Wash and Trim the Ends

First, rinse your zucchini under cool water and pat them dry.
 
Then, using a sharp chef’s knife, slice off both ends about a quarter-inch in.
 
This gives you a clean, flat surface to work with and makes the rest of the cutting much safer.
 

2. Cut Lengthwise for Planks

The most popular way to cut up zucchini for grilling is lengthwise into planks.
 
Stand the zucchini upright and slice it into long, flat strips about 1/2 inch thick.
 
These planks are perfect for grilling because they hold their shape and don’t slip through the grates.
 

3. Slice Into Spears for Smaller Bites

If you prefer smaller pieces, cut those planks in half lengthwise again to create spears.
 
Aim for spears that are roughly 1/2 inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long.
 
When you cut up zucchini for grilling as spears, they’re easier to flip and great for skewers.
 

4. Try Rounds for a Different Look

You can also cut up zucchini for grilling into rounds about 1/2 inch thick.
 
Just be careful with smaller zucchini, as thin rounds can slip through the grates.
 
If you go this route, consider using a grill basket or a sheet of foil with holes poked in it.
 

Best Thickness for Grilling Zucchini

The best thickness for grilling zucchini is between 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch.
 
Anything thinner than 1/2 inch will likely turn limp and fall apart on the grill.
 
Anything thicker than 3/4 inch may burn on the outside before the inside cooks through.
 
So stick with that sweet spot, and you’ll get zucchini that’s tender inside with nice char marks outside.
 

Tips for Grilling Zucchini Perfectly

Once you know how to cut up zucchini for grilling, a few extra tips will take your results to the next level.
 

1. Pat Them Dry

Before they hit the grill, pat your cut zucchini dry with a paper towel.
 
Excess moisture steams the zucchini instead of charring it, which means no grill marks and a softer texture.
 

2. Toss With Oil and Seasoning

Brush or toss your zucchini pieces with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
 
The oil helps them brown beautifully and keeps them from sticking to the grates.
 

3. Preheat Your Grill

Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the zucchini.
 
A hot grill gives you those quick sear marks without overcooking the inside.
 

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Grates

Give each piece of zucchini a little breathing room on the grill.
 
If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of grill, and nobody wants that.
 

5. Grill for 3 to 4 Minutes Per Side

Cook your zucchini for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, flipping once.
 
You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender with crisp, golden edges and those gorgeous grill lines.
 

So, How Do You Cut Up Zucchini for Grilling?

You cut up zucchini for grilling by trimming the ends and slicing it lengthwise into 1/2-inch planks or spears.
 
The key is sticking with the best thickness for grilling zucchini, which is between 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch.
 
Pat them dry, season them well, and grill over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side.
 
Now that you know how to cut up zucchini for grilling, fire up the grill and enjoy.