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You can grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill by slicing them into planks or rounds, tossing them in oil, and cooking them over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side.
It’s one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy summer produce, and the smoky flavor you get from a charcoal grill is honestly hard to beat.
If you’ve been wondering how to grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill without turning them into a mushy mess, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill step by step, from prepping the vegetables to getting those perfect char marks.
Let’s fire it up.
Why Grilling Zucchini and Squash on a Charcoal Grill Works So Well
Grilling zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill works so well because both vegetables hold up beautifully to high heat and pick up that unmistakable smoky flavor.
Here’s why this method shines:
1. Charcoal Adds Real Smoky Flavor
When you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill, the burning coals release smoke that infuses the vegetables as they cook.
That smoky depth is something a gas grill or oven just can’t replicate.
It’s the reason so many people swear by charcoal for summer veggies.
2. Both Veggies Have the Right Texture
Zucchini and squash are firm enough to sit on the grates without falling apart.
They soften as they cook but still hold their shape, which makes grilling zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill a breeze.
Just don’t overcook them or they’ll turn to mush.
3. They Cook Fast
Grilling zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill takes only about 8 to 12 minutes total.
That means you can have a healthy side dish ready before your burgers or steaks even finish resting.
It’s quick, simple, and satisfying.
How to Prep Zucchini and Squash for a Charcoal Grill
Prepping zucchini and squash for a charcoal grill is where most people either set themselves up for success or failure.
Get this part right and the rest is easy.
1. Choose Firm, Fresh Zucchini and Squash
Pick zucchini and squash that are firm, heavy for their size, and free of soft spots.
Smaller to medium ones work best because they have fewer seeds and less water.
Too much water is the enemy when you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill.
2. Slice Them Evenly
Cut zucchini and squash into planks about half an inch thick or rounds about a quarter inch thick.
Even slices cook at the same rate, so nothing turns mushy while something else stays raw.
If you’re grilling zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill for the first time, planks are more forgiving.
3. Salt Them First
Sprinkle salt on your zucchini and squash slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
This pulls out excess moisture so they char instead of steam.
Pat them dry before you move on to oiling.
4. Toss in Oil and Season
Coat the slices lightly in olive oil or avocado oil.
Oil helps them crisp up and keeps them from sticking to the grates when you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill.
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, or whatever seasonings you love.
Step-by-Step: How to Grill Zucchini and Squash on a Charcoal Grill
Learning how to grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill comes down to a few key steps.
Follow these and you’ll get perfect results every time.
1. Set Up Your Charcoal Grill for Medium-High Heat
Light your charcoal and let it burn until the coals are covered in gray ash.
Spread them in a single layer for direct heat, or push them to one side for a two-zone setup.
You want medium-high heat, around 400 to 450°F, to grill zucchini and squash properly.
2. Clean and Oil the Grates
Scrub the grates with a wire brush while they’re hot.
Then fold a paper towel with oil and rub it across the grates using tongs.
This step is critical when you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill because they stick easily.
3. Place the Slices on the Grill
Lay your zucchini and squash slices directly on the grates in a single layer.
Don’t crowd them, or they’ll steam instead of char.
Give each piece a little space so the heat can do its job.
4. Cook 3 to 5 Minutes Per Side
Leave them alone for the first few minutes so they develop grill marks.
Flip once with tongs and cook another 3 to 5 minutes.
When you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill, they’re done when they’re tender but still slightly firm.
5. Watch for Doneness and Avoid Overcooking
Overcooking is the number one mistake people make when they grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill.
Pull them off while they still have a bit of bite.
They’ll continue to soften slightly as they rest.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid When You Grill Zucchini and Squash on a Charcoal Grill
A few extra tips will help you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill like a pro.
1. Don’t Skip the Salt-and-Rest Step
Skipping this step means watery veggies that steam instead of sear.
It takes 15 minutes and makes a huge difference.
2. Use a Grill Basket for Small Pieces
If you cut rounds, a grill basket keeps them from falling through the grates.
It’s a lifesaver when you grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill with smaller cuts.
3. Keep the Lid Off for Direct Grilling
For quick-cooking veggies, leave the lid off so they char instead of steam.
You can close it briefly if you’re using indirect heat.
4. Finish with Fresh Herbs or Lemon
A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh basil takes grilled zucchini and squash to the next level.
It brightens up that smoky charcoal flavor beautifully.
So, How to Grill Zucchini and Squash on a Charcoal Grill?
You grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill by prepping them with salt and oil, then cooking them over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side.
The charcoal gives you that smoky char that makes them taste incredible.
Just remember to slice evenly, dry them well, and avoid overcooking.
Now you know exactly how to grill zucchini and squash on a charcoal grill, so grab your tongs and get cooking.