Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers

 

Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers: A Simple Side That Steals the Show

Zucchini is one of those vegetables that often gets overlooked — but when treated right, it can completely transform a meal. These Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are a perfect example. Smoky from the grill, buttery and fragrant with garlic, and kissed with a touch of seasoning, they’re the ultimate side dish or vegetarian centerpiece for your next barbecue, dinner party, or weeknight meal.

Whether you’re serving meat-lovers or plant-based eaters, these skewers always go fast. They’re quick to prep, easy to customize, and packed with flavor.

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Ingredients:

• 2–3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thick rounds

• 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a vegan version)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, lemon zest

• Skewers (wooden skewers soaked in water or metal skewers)

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Instructions:

1. Prep the Zucchini:
   Wash the zucchini and slice into thick rounds (about ½ inch thick). This keeps them sturdy on the skewers and prevents overcooking.

2. Make the Garlic Butter:
   In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it sit for a minute to infuse.

3. Assemble the Skewers:
   Thread the zucchini rounds onto the skewers. You can alternate the direction they face for even cooking.

4. Brush and Season:
   Brush the garlic butter generously over all sides of the zucchini. Reserve a bit of butter for a final drizzle after cooking.

5. Grill the Skewers:

   • Outdoor grill or grill pan: Grill over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and zucchini is tender but not mushy.

   • Oven option: Broil in the oven on a baking tray for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. Finish and Serve:
   Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or a touch of lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately.

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Serving Suggestions:

• As a side to grilled meats or fish

• Paired with quinoa, couscous, or rice bowls

• Served on a mezze platter with dips like hummus or tzatziki

• Tucked into pita bread with feta and tomato for a veggie wrap

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Tips & Variations:

• Add other veggies: Pair zucchini with bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers.

• Vegan-friendly: Swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter — the garlic still shines through!

• Make it spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a swirl of hot honey after grilling.

• Make it cheesy: Finish with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra richness.

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Why You'll Love It

Garlic butter zucchini skewers are the perfect marriage of simplicity and flavor. They’re fast to make, endlessly adaptable, and absolutely crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this is the kind of easy recipe that delivers every single time.