If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful dish that feels both fresh and indulgent, this Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Imagine tender zucchini rounds kissed with a rich, garlicky butter and grilled to perfection, their edges golden and inviting. It’s a low-carb, keto-friendly delight that fits seamlessly into any meal, whether as a vibrant side or a standout appetizer. The simplicity of this dish belies the depth of its taste, making every bite a celebration of summer’s best flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all you need to create the magic of Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers. Each item plays a crucial role: from the fresh zucchini providing a tender, juicy base to the melted butter giving it that irresistible, rich coating.
- 3 medium zucchinis (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): Choose firm zucchinis to ensure they hold up on the grill and have that perfect bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds luscious richness and helps carry the garlic flavors evenly across the zucchini slices.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Gives the skewers that signature punch of savory, aromatic garlic.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps evenly toast the zucchini and prevents sticking while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the buttery garlic mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of zucchini.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or thyme: Infuses herbaceous undertones that lift the dish beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty crust when sprinkled just before serving.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a splash of color and a fresh herbal brightness.
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden): Essential for threading the zucchini and making grilling a breeze.
How to Make Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
Start by melting the unsalted butter and combining it with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of dried Italian seasoning or thyme. This garlic butter blend is going to be the star that coats each zucchini slice in savory goodness, so mix it thoroughly to marry all those flavors perfectly.
Step 2: Thread the Zucchini onto Skewers
Carefully slide the zucchini rounds onto your skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each slice. This not only helps them cook evenly but also lets that garlic butter soak into every nook and cranny as they grill or roast. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’re soaked in water beforehand to avoid burning.
Step 3: Brush with Garlic Butter
Generously brush both sides of the zucchini skewers with the garlicky butter mixture. Don’t be shy here—the butter not only imparts flavor but also helps achieve that beautiful golden color and tender texture when cooked.
Step 4: Grill or Roast to Perfection
Place the skewers on a preheated grill or in an oven set to 400°F (200°C). Grill them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side or roast in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for tender zucchini with lightly browned edges—that’s the sweet spot where flavor and texture meet.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once cooked, sprinkle your skewers with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley if you like. This step adds a lovely salty crunch and a pop of fresh color that makes these zucchini skewers feel extra special—perfect for sharing with friends or family.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is an easy but effective garnish that brightens the dish and adds a contrast to the buttery glaze. For a touch of indulgence, freshly grated Parmesan sprinkled on top just before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, complementing their savory profile without overpowering them. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, serve them alongside a refreshing salad or creamy dips like ranch or garlic aioli for a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms on your skewers alongside the zucchini before cooking. This adds bursts of color and variety in flavor and texture. Alternatively, lay the skewers on a bed of mixed greens or drizzle with a light balsamic glaze to elevate their visual appeal and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover zucchini skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep nicely and the flavors settle, making for an easy snack or side dish the next day.
Freezing
While these skewers are best fresh, you can freeze cooked zucchini skewers by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month, but note the texture may soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, place the skewers on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy. A brief stint on the grill also brings back some of that fresh grilled charm.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even small onion wedges can be threaded alongside zucchini for a colorful and flavorful mix.
Is it necessary to use butter, or can I only use olive oil?
Butter adds richness and carries the garlic flavor wonderfully, but if you prefer, you can use olive oil alone. Just keep in mind that butter brings a uniquely creamy taste that’s hard to beat.
What’s the best way to prevent zucchini from sticking to the grill?
Brushing the grill grates with oil before cooking and using the olive oil in the garlic butter mixture helps prevent sticking. Also, ensure the grill is properly preheated so the zucchini sears quickly.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or extra olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative for a fully vegan version.
How do I know when the zucchini skewers are done?
The zucchini should be tender but still hold their shape, with slightly browned edges. Typically, 3 to 4 minutes per side on the grill or 12 to 15 minutes in the oven will achieve this perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe is a personal favorite that never fails to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual weeknight or a summer cookout, they bring pure, garlicky joy to every bite. Give them a try and watch how this humble vegetable transforms into a crowd-pleasing, buttery delight!
Print
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are a simple and flavorful side dish or appetizer perfect for grilling season. Tender zucchini rounds are brushed with a garlicky herb butter, skewered, and grilled or roasted until perfectly golden. These skewers are low-carb, keto-friendly, and ready in under 20 minutes, making them an ideal healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Zucchini Skewers
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or thyme
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or oven: Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the zucchini skewers evenly and develop that golden brown color.
- Make the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning or thyme. Mix well to create a flavorful brush-on sauce.
- Prepare the skewers: Thread the zucchini rounds onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each slice to allow for even cooking and heat circulation.
- Brush with garlic butter: Generously brush both sides of the zucchini rounds with the prepared garlic butter mixture to infuse them with flavor.
- Cook the skewers: Grill the skewers for 3–4 minutes per side until the zucchini is tender and has nice grill marks. Alternatively, bake them on a lined baking sheet in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the skewers with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm as a delicious side or appetizer.
Notes
- Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms to the skewers for additional variety and flavor.
- This dish pairs excellently with grilled meats or can serve as a vegetarian main course.
- Consider serving with dips like ranch or garlic aioli to enhance the flavor.
