Grilled Zucchini Boats with Ricotta and Herbs

Grilled Zucchini Boats with Ricotta and Herbs: A Light, Flavorful, and Irresistible Summer Delight 🥒🔥🧀✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests? These Grilled Zucchini Boats with Ricotta and Herbs are the perfect choice! Packed with fresh flavors and creamy ricotta, this grilled zucchini boats recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy summer produce. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a light dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit. The combination of grilled zucchini with herbed ricotta creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

2. Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise (look for firm, bright green zucchinis)
• 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese (for best results, use whole milk ricotta)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (Italian flat-leaf parsley works best)
• 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available)
• 2 tbsp high-quality extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional but highly recommended)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for those who like a little heat)
• Zest of 1/2 lemon (for brightening up the flavors)

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding some of the scooped-out zucchini flesh (finely chopped) to the ricotta mixture. This reduces waste and enhances the zucchini flavor!

3. Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by preheating your grill to medium heat (about 375-400°F). While the grill heats up, prepare your zucchini: wash them thoroughly and pat dry. Carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh from the zucchini halves using a melon baller or small spoon, leaving about a 1/4-inch border to create sturdy “boats.” This ensures they’ll hold the ricotta filling while grilling without falling apart. Don’t discard the scooped-out flesh – you can use it in other recipes or add it to the filling!

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped basil, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. For extra flavor and texture, consider adding some of the optional ingredients like Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes. The filling should be creamy but hold its shape – if it seems too loose, you can drain the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer for 10-15 minutes before mixing. Spoon the mixture generously into each zucchini boat, mounding it slightly in the center. For a beautiful presentation, you can pipe the filling using a pastry bag.

Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the filled zucchini boats, making sure to coat both the filling and the zucchini edges. This serves three important purposes: it prevents sticking to the grill, helps achieve those beautiful grill marks, and enhances the overall flavor. For an extra flavor boost, use a flavored olive oil or add a sprinkle of your favorite dried herbs to the oil before brushing. If you’re looking for other great ways to use olive oil in your cooking, check out this similar recipe from The Kitchn.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place the zucchini boats carefully on the preheated grill, filling side up. Close the lid and grill for 10-12 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your zucchini and the heat of your grill – you’re looking for the zucchini to become tender but still hold its shape, and the ricotta filling to develop a slight golden color. If your grill has hot spots, rotate the zucchini halfway through cooking for even results. For those who don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stove works nearly as well!

4. Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Zucchini Boats with Ricotta and Herbs are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. For a complete meal, pair them with grilled chicken or fish. They’re also wonderful alongside a fresh summer salad like this Avocado and Mango Salsa or this Spiced Apple and Walnut Salad. For presentation, arrange them on a platter and garnish with extra fresh herbs, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.

5. Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative or blended cashews with lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, extra red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa, crumbled feta, or chopped nuts for extra texture and nutrition.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta to the ricotta mixture.
• Breakfast Version: Top with a poached egg for a delicious morning meal.

6. Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture will be best if reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or on the grill for a few minutes. You can also prepare the components ahead of time: hollow out the zucchini and make the filling up to a day in advance, then assemble and grill just before serving. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out our overnight oats recipe or this frozen yogurt bark for easy breakfast options.

7. Health Benefits

This grilled zucchini boats recipe isn’t just delicious – it’s packed with nutrition! Zucchini is low in calories (only about 20 calories per cup) and high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. The ricotta provides high-quality protein and calcium, making this a satisfying yet light dish. The olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the fresh herbs provide antioxidants. Compared to heavier summer dishes, this recipe offers all the flavor without the guilt. For more nutritious meal ideas, try our Matcha Smoothie Bowl or this balanced breakfast plate.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of grilling? Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until tender. The broiler can be used for the last 2-3 minutes to get a nice golden top.

Can I use other squash varieties? Yes! Yellow squash or even small eggplants work well with this method.

How do I prevent the filling from drying out? Don’t over-grill them, and consider covering with foil for the first half of cooking if your grill runs hot.

Can I freeze these? The zucchini texture changes when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What if my ricotta is too watery? Drain it in a fine mesh strainer for 30 minutes before using, or mix in some breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.

9. Conclusion

These Grilled Zucchini Boats with Ricotta and Herbs are truly a celebration of summer flavors. They’re light yet satisfying, simple yet impressive, and healthy yet delicious. Whether you’re looking for a standout side dish for your next barbecue or a meatless main that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this grilled zucchini boats recipe delivers. The creamy herbed ricotta perfectly complements the smoky grilled zucchini, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to summer recipe – it’s that good! Fire up the grill and enjoy this delightful, nutritious meal today. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!

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