Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers: A Cozy Grilled Delight
Summer evenings have a way of weaving magic into our lives, don’t they? As the golden sun dips below the horizon, there’s an unmistakable warmth in the air and the aroma of grilled vegetables mingling with the scent of blooming flowers. It reminds me of childhood summers spent in my grandmother’s garden, where she’d always bring out skewers of fresh veggies tossed in her signature garlic butter.
Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures that cozy essence perfectly: Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers. This easy weeknight dinner is not only simple but also bursting with flavors that transport you back to those late summer nights. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, these skewers come together in just minutes.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of buttery garlic and fresh zucchini creates a delicious, comforting side dish.
- Grilled to Perfection: Enjoy deliciously charred veggies that are tender and bursting with flavor.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Zucchini is low in calories but high in flavor, making this a guilt-free treat you can enjoy.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these sweet, smoky skewers, making them a hit with everyone!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
How to Make Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
Let’s Make It Together:
- Start by washing and slicing the zucchinis into thick rounds or half-moons to ensure even cooking.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and simmer until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a comforting aroma.
- In a large bowl, combine the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the warm garlic butter until they are perfectly coated.
- Thread the zucchini onto soaked wooden skewers for easy grilling and handling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender with lovely char marks.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the skewers just before serving hot, adding a bright burst of flavor.
Variations & Creative Twists
Delicious Variations to Try:
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Zucchini Skewers: Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the skewers during the last few minutes on the grill for a rich, savory flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your garlic butter for a zesty finish that’s sure to excite the taste buds.
- Mixed Veggie Skewers: Incorporate cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a colorful variety that makes these skewers an eye-catching main or side dish!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Soak Your Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning.
- Batch Preparation: Make the garlic butter in advance and store it in the fridge. It can be used for a variety of vegetables!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Slicing Tips: Aim for even-sized zucchini slices for uniform cooking; thicker slices will remain slightly crunchy while thinner ones will tenderize beautifully.
Nutrition Information per Serving
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown:
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. 3-4 pieces of zucchini)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 7g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 270mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader FAQs About Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers:
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and garlic butter ahead of time. Store them separately until you are ready to grill.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables or herbs according to your taste preference.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How long does it last? When stored properly, these skewers will stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or skillet for best results!
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are not just a recipe; they’re a warm embrace of summer nostalgia. They serve not just as a delicious side dish but as a reminder to savor the simple moments. So, whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these zucchini skewers are sure to bring a touch of joy to your table. Save this Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers recipe to your “Cozy Treats” board so it’s ready when you need a comforting delight!
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Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy grilled delight that captures the essence of summer with buttery garlic and fresh zucchini.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and slice the zucchinis into thick rounds or half-moons.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat and add the minced garlic, simmering until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the warm garlic butter.
- Thread the zucchini onto soaked wooden skewers.
- Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F) and grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the skewers before serving hot.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. 3-4 pieces of zucchini)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: zucchini, garlic butter, grilled vegetables, summer skewers, easy side dish