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Grilled Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This dish features zucchini cut lengthwise and hollowed out to create boats that are grilled to develop a smoky char. The softened flesh is mashed and mixed with fresh herbs and cheese, then stuffed back into the grilled shells for a tender yet slightly crispy finish. The result is a colorful, flavorful appetizer or main with a satisfying combination of smoky, herbaceous, and cheesy textures.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 4 small zucchini preferably small and firm
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good-quality extra virgin
  • to taste salt flaky sea salt preferred
  • to taste black pepper fresh cracked
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs to add crunch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Vegetable peeler or knife
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Using a vegetable peeler or a knife, slice the zucchini lengthwise and gently scoop out the insides with a spoon, leaving about a 1/4-inch border to form a sturdy boat. Place the hollowed zucchinis on a plate.
  2. Brush the zucchini boats lightly with olive oil on all sides, then season generously with salt and pepper. This helps them develop a nice char and prevents sticking on the grill.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the zucchini boats cut side down on the grill grates, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a slight char and the flesh begins to soften.
  4. Flip the zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flesh to shrink, crisp at the edges, and release a smoky aroma. The flesh should soften and become mashable.
  5. Remove the zucchini from the grill and let them cool slightly. Scoop out the softened flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving the shells intact.
  6. Add crumbled feta, chopped herbs, breadcrumbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the bowl with the zucchini flesh. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is slightly sticky.
  7. Stuff the mixture back into the grilled zucchini shells, pressing gently to pack the filling in evenly.
  8. Place the stuffed zucchini boats back on the grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt and the edges of the zucchini are slightly crispy.
  9. Remove from the grill and drizzle with a little more lemon juice. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.