Get ready to elevate your grilling game with a mouthwatering dish that's not just a side, but a star attraction! These Grilled Zucchini Goat Cheese Boats are the perfect blend of fresh summer produce and creamy, tangy cheese that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply want to add a gourmet touch to your weeknight meals, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Wash zucchinis thoroughly and trim off both ends. Slice zucchinis lengthwise into two equal halves.
- Use a small spoon to gently scoop out the center seeds, creating a boat-like channel in each zucchini half, leaving about 1/4 inch thickness on the sides and bottom.
- Brush each zucchini boat with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) or prepare a grill pan on stovetop with medium-high heat setting.
- Place zucchini boats cut-side down on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes until light grill marks appear and surface begins to soften.
- Flip zucchini boats and cook for additional 2-3 minutes until they become tender but still maintain structural integrity.
- Remove zucchini boats from grill and immediately crumble goat cheese into each boat's center.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes, distributing them evenly across the boats.
- Return zucchini boats to grill for 1-2 minutes to slightly warm the cheese and tomatoes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose zucchinis that are medium-sized and relatively straight for uniform boats
- Make sure to leave about 1/4 inch thickness when scooping out seeds to maintain structural integrity
- Preheat your grill or grill pan thoroughly to ensure perfect grill marks
- Don't overcook the zucchini - you want them tender but still with a slight crunch
- Use fresh goat cheese for the creamiest texture
- If you don't have a grill, this recipe works equally well in a hot oven (425°F for about 10-12 minutes)
- Fresh basil is key for that final burst of flavor - don't skip the garnish!
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and slightly melted
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
