There’s something magical about summer vegetables that brings out the best in our cooking. One of my favorite summer dishes is the Grilled Zucchini Caprese.
Imagine the sizzle of zucchini on a hot grill, the creamy melt of fresh mozzarella, and the burst of flavor from ripe tomatoes, all brought together with the sweetness of a balsamic glaze.
It’s simple, fresh, and perfect for a warm evening when you want to savor the season’s bounty.
A Summer Twist on a Classic
Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. While the traditional version uses tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this recipe introduces zucchini to give it a unique twist.
Grilling the zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes. Plus, the balsamic glaze drizzled over the top ties everything together with a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For brushing the zucchini before grilling.
- 1 medium zucchini: Cut lengthwise for a substantial base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
- 2 tomatoes, cut into thin slices: For layering over the grilled zucchini.
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the hot zucchini.
- 3 tablespoons fresh minced basil: Adds a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze: A finishing touch that adds a sweet-tangy element.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Heat a grill pan over medium heat. While the pan is heating, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. Brush the cut side with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. The olive oil will help the zucchini char nicely while keeping it from sticking to the grill.
2. Grill to Perfection
Place the zucchini on the hot grill, cut side down. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes charred and begins to soften. This step is crucial as it enhances the zucchini’s natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor.
3. Layer the Ingredients
Once the zucchini is nicely charred, flip it over and layer the mozzarella cheese and tomato slices on top. Sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper to taste. This layering allows the cheese to start melting over the warm zucchini, creating a creamy, delightful base for the tomatoes.
4. Bake for Gooey Goodness
Transfer the zucchini to a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 10-15 minutes. This baking step helps to melt the mozzarella fully and softens the tomatoes, blending all the flavors together perfectly.
5. Finish with Freshness
After baking, remove the zucchini from the oven. Top with fresh minced basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze. The fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbal note that complements the rich, melted cheese, and the balsamic glaze provides a sweet contrast that elevates the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great Caprese dish is using the freshest ingredients possible. Ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil will make all the difference.
- Don’t Skip the Grill: Grilling the zucchini adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to miss. If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular skillet will work, but try to get some good char on the zucchini for the best results.
- Customize Your Caprese: Feel free to play around with the ingredients. Add some grilled chicken for a heartier meal, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Advice
This Grilled Zucchini Caprese is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. It brings together the best of summer produce in a way that’s simple, yet incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress. So grab some fresh ingredients and your grill pan, and enjoy a taste of summer with every bite. Happy cooking!
Caprese Zucchini Boats
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tomatoes cut into thin slices
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp fresh minced basil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Heat a grill-pan over medium heat.
- Cut zucchini in half lengthwise. Brush the cut side of the zucchini with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place zucchini, cut side down and cook until the zucchini is charred and beginning to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- Turn zucchini over and layer mozzarella cheese and tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt/pepper.
- Place in a preheated oven at 220C for 10-15 minutes.
- Then top with basil and drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve warm!
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