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You can grill zucchini and squash on the grill by slicing them into planks or rounds, brushing them with oil, and cooking them over medium-high heat for just a few minutes per side.
It’s one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy summer produce, and once you know the technique, you’ll want to grill zucchini and squash all season long.
The high heat gives them those beautiful char marks and a slightly smoky flavor while keeping the inside tender and sweet.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to grill zucchini and squash, from prepping and slicing to seasoning and serving.
Let’s fire up the grill.
How to Grill Zucchini and Squash on the Grill
Learning how to grill zucchini and squash on the grill comes down to three things: the right cut, the right oil, and the right heat.
Get those right, and you’ll have perfectly grilled zucchini and squash every single time.
1. Choose Firm, Fresh Zucchini and Squash
Start by picking zucchini and squash that feel firm and heavy for their size.
Avoid any that are soft, mushy, or have wrinkled skin because they won’t hold up well on the grill.
Small to medium zucchini and squash work best since they have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.
If you’re grilling yellow squash alongside zucchini, the same rules apply.
2. Slice Them Into Planks or Rounds
How you cut your zucchini and squash matters more than you’d think.
For grilling, cut them lengthwise into planks about half an inch thick.
Planks are easier to flip and give you more surface area for those gorgeous grill marks.
If you prefer rounds, slice them about half an inch thick too, but be gentle when flipping.
The key is consistency so every piece of grilled zucchini and squash cooks at the same rate.
3. Brush With Oil and Season Well
Before they hit the grill, brush your zucchini and squash with a good coat of olive oil or avocado oil.
The oil prevents sticking and helps the seasonings cling to the surface.
Then season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a little smoked paprika if you like.
You can also add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Just keep it simple so the natural taste of the grilled zucchini and squash shines through.
4. Preheat the Grill to Medium-High Heat
A hot grill is essential when you grill zucchini and squash.
Preheat your grill to medium-high, around 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled before placing anything on them.
If you’re using a grill basket or foil, that works too, but direct grates give you the best char.
5. Grill for 3 to 4 Minutes Per Side
Place your zucchini and squash on the grill and let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes.
Resist the urge to move them around because you want those grill marks to develop.
Flip once and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
Total grilling time for zucchini and squash is usually under 10 minutes.
Overcooking makes them mushy, so pull them off while they still have a bit of bite.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Zucchini and Squash
These little tips make a big difference when you grill zucchini and squash.
1. Don’t Salt Too Early
Salt draws out moisture, so if you salt your zucchini and squash too far in advance, they’ll get soggy.
Season them right before they go on the grill for the best texture.
2. Use a Grill Basket for Small Pieces
If you slice your zucchini and squash into rounds or cubes, a grill basket keeps them from falling through the grates.
It’s a lifesaver when you’re grilling zucchini and squash for a crowd.
3. Avoid Overcrowding the Grill
Give your zucchini and squash room to breathe on the grill.
If they’re crowded, they’ll steam instead of char, and you’ll lose that smoky grilled flavor.
Cook in batches if you need to.
4. Add a Finishing Touch
Once your grilled zucchini and squash come off the grill, finish them with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parmesan.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a handful of fresh basil also takes them to the next level.
These small touches make your grilled zucchini and squash taste like a restaurant-quality side dish.
What to Serve With Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash pair beautifully with almost anything off the grill.
Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or burgers for a complete meal.
They also work great in salads, tacos, and grain bowls.
If you have leftovers, chop up your grilled zucchini and squash and toss them into pasta or omelets the next day.
They’re just as tasty cold, which makes them perfect for meal prep.
So, How Do You Grill Zucchini and Squash on the Grill?
You grill zucchini and squash on the grill by slicing them into half-inch planks, brushing them with oil, seasoning them well, and cooking them over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
It’s a simple process that delivers big flavor with very little effort.
Once you master how to grill zucchini and squash on the grill, you’ll wonder why you ever cooked them any other way.
So grab some fresh zucchini and squash this weekend, fire up the grill, and enjoy every smoky, tender bite.