Grilled Zucchini Sandwich: A Delicious Vegetarian Delight
Grilled zucchini sandwich, my dear friends! It is not often that you come across such a simple yet flavorful vegetarian sandwich recipe. Zucchinis are in their prime during the summertime, and grilling them adds a charred texture that takes this sandwich to another level. This grilled zucchini sandwich recipe brings together all the summer flavors in one bite – zesty mustard, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and of course, the star ingredient – grilled zucchini that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
This sandwich is not just for vegetarians! Even if you usually have a taste for meaty meals, this grilled zucchini sandwich will come as a delightful surprise. It is quick to assemble and satisfyingly filling. So without further ado, let us get into why you will adore this grilled zucchini sandwich recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled zucchini sandwich recipe is not just a regular sandwich, it’s a culinary masterpiece! This dish is perfect for any time of day, whether you’re in need of a quick and healthy snack or a satisfying meal. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this grilled zucchini sandwich recipe:
Firstly, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Zucchini is the star of the show in this recipe, and it adds a perfectly tender and juicy texture to an otherwise standard sandwich. Plus, since it’s grilled, it gives off a unique smoky flavor that will awaken your taste buds with every bite.
Secondly, it’s customizable and versatile. The beauty of this recipe is that you can mix and match ingredients to fit your personal tastes. If you prefer a creamier sandwich, goat cheese or ricotta would be the perfect substitute for cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Likewise, if you’re feeling adventurous, add some avocado or roasted bell peppers for added flavor.
Thirdly, it’s easy to make. This recipe requires only basic kitchen skills and minimal effort. Make sure to preheat the grill or pan to medium-high heat when cooking the zucchinis and slice your bread lengthwise. Season the zucchinis with salt and pepper according to your preferences, grill them for 2-3 minutes until tender, then assemble the layers of bread and toppings as desired.
Finally, it’s healthy and nutritious. Grilled zucchini sandwich is a great source of fiber, vitamins A and C. By serving this dish on whole-grain bread along with fresh lettuce and tomato slices for added color and crunch factor adds more nutrients that will give your body essential nutrients to sustain energy throughout the day.
Overall, whether you’re short on time or looking to switch up your lunch routine – this grilled zucchini sandwich recipe deserves a place on your menu. So go ahead and give it a try – I guarantee that you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you need to make Grilled Zucchini Sandwich Recipe:
For the Grilled Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise 1/4 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
For the Olive Pesto:
- 1 cup green olives
- 1 small onion, grilled
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cheese (grilled cheese or goat cheese)
- Grilled zucchini slices
- Olive Pesto (about 2 tbsp)
Note that you can also substitute some of these ingredients for variations like eggplant, summer squash, bell pepper, ricotta, or avocado to create your own personalized version of this sandwich.
The Recipe How-To
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j-u3kuunxY
Preparing the ingredients
Step 1: Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat or warming a skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: While the grill or pan is heating up, slice the zucchini lengthwise into pieces that are about an inch thick (1-2 zucchinis depending on size should be enough).
Step 3: Season the zucchini generously with salt and pepper. This will help bring out its natural flavors and help it caramelize beautifully on the grill or in the pan.
Grilling the Zucchini
Step 4: When your grill or skillet is hot, brush some olive oil onto the zucchini slices.
Step 5: Place them onto the grill or skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re nicely charred and softened.
Step 6: For added flavor, drizzle some balsamic vinegar onto the grilled zucchini before taking it off the grill.
Assembling the Sandwich
Step 7: To make a basic zucchini sandwich, start by slicing a piece of bread and layering it with grilled zucchini, lettuce, and sliced tomatoes.
Step 8: Add a dollop of mustard for extra tanginess.
Step 9: Top it off with another slice of bread and enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, some of you might be thinking, “I’m not really into zucchini or the classic caprese sandwich.” Well, don’t worry my friends, because there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make this grilled zucchini sandwich recipe your own.
For a twist on the classic caprese sandwich, try using roasted red bell peppers instead of tomatoes. The sweetness of the peppers paired with the creamy goat cheese and zesty green olive pesto will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add some spicy flavors to the mix, try making a banh mi-style sandwich by adding pickled carrots, daikon radish and a spicy sriracha mayo.
Or, switch things up completely and add some sliced avocado to your spinach or arugula base for a creamy addition. If you’re looking for more protein, try adding grilled chicken or tofu.
Another alternative is to use thinly sliced eggplant instead of the zucchini. This will create grilled eggplant zucchini panini sandwiches that are great for vegetable lovers who want something different.
For those who prefer a less cheesy option, ditch the goat cheese and go for ricotta instead. Alongside roasted summer squash, this variation provides a refreshing twist on the original grilled zucchini sandwich recipe.
No matter which substitution or variation you choose, don’t forget to season your vegetables well and top off each bite with balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil.
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the glorious moment has arrived, the moment when we finally get to savor those scrumptious grilled zucchini sandwiches that we’ve just spent our time and effort preparing. But what should we pair with them in order to make the experience even more exquisite? While some might suggest downing one of these with a cup of coffee or tea, for others a glass of chilled white wine will do the trick.
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing pairing, I strongly recommend serving your grilled zucchini sandwiches with a salad made up of lettuce and cherry tomatoes. The mustard vinaigrette dressing of the salad perfectly balances the creamy taste of the cheese in the sandwiches while the acidity of the tomatoes cuts through any potential heaviness from the bread.
However, if you’re feeling more indulgent or simply don’t like salads all that much, the grilled zucchini sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of homemade potato chips. The crispy texture and subtle saltiness of the chips contrasts beautifully with the softness and mellow flavor of the sandwich.
Lastly, if you’re having company over or want to elevate your everyday meal, consider adding a Caprese salad made with sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, along with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. In this way, you’ll create a cohesive Italian-inspired menu that will make you feel as if you were dining al fresco at a picturesque trattoria in Rome.
Whatever you choose to serve alongside this delicious grilled zucchini sandwich recipe, just remember that simple yet quality ingredients are always key to achieve culinary greatness.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
I’m not sure if Ernest Hemingway is the best author for writing about cooking, but I’ll give it a try!
It’s important to note that although this grilled zucchini sandwich recipe is best enjoyed right after grilling, it can still be prepared in advance or reheated for later. Here are some tips for making and storing the sandwich:
Make-ahead: If you’re planning on making the sandwiches ahead of time, you can grill the zucchini and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also slice the bread and assemble the sandwiches without toasting them, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.
Storing: If you have any leftover sandwiches, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Note that the bread may become slightly soggy with storage, so it won’t taste quite as good as when freshly made.
Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), place the sandwich on a baking sheet, and bake it in the oven for around 10 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat it quickly in a skillet over medium heat if you prefer. Just make sure that the cheese has melted properly before serving.
Remember that while reheating is an option, nothing beats a hot and fresh grilled zucchini sandwich straight off the grill. So, if possible, plan ahead and prepare only as much as you can serve immediately!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the best grilled zucchini sandwich, there are a few tips that you need to keep in mind. These tips will help you get the perfect texture and flavor in your sandwiches. Here are some of my expert tips for making the perfect grilled zucchini sandwich:
First, make sure to season your zucchini slices generously with salt and pepper before grilling. This will enhance their flavor and also help to draw out any excess moisture, making them less watery.
Next, preheat your grill or skillet to medium high heat before adding the zucchini slices. This will help to ensure that they cook evenly and quickly.
When grilling the zucchini, be sure not to overcook it. You want it to be slightly charred on the outside but still slightly firm on the inside. Overcooked zucchini can become mushy and unappetizing.
If you’re using cheese in your sandwich, like a slice of roasted zucchini goat cheese or fresh mozzarella in a zucchini caprese sandwich, add it to the sandwich when the zucchini is warm so it can melt perfectly.
Try pairing your grilled zucchini with other vegetables like bell peppers or summer squash for a delicious, colorful vegetable medley in your sandwich. You can even make grilled vegetable panini with eggplant for an Italian-inspired sandwich.
Finally, use good quality bread like sourdough or ciabatta for your sandwich. It should be sturdy enough to hold all of the delicious ingredients without falling apart.
Remember these helpful tips and you’ll have perfectly grilled zucchini sandwiches every time!
FAQ
Well, my friend, you’ve come a long way reading through the sections of this delicious Grilled Zucchini Sandwich Recipe. But before you head to the kitchen to start cooking, let me answer some of the frequently asked questions about this recipe that might pop up in your mind during preparation. These frequently asked questions will help you get the perfect outcome while preparing and serving your Grilled Zucchini Sandwiches. So, read on!
Should Zucchini be salted before grilling?
If you’re wondering whether or not to salt your zucchini before grilling it, the answer is that it’s not a requirement, but it can definitely enhance its flavor. Adding salt to zucchini draws out some of its liquid, making it firmer and avoiding the mushy texture that can occur when using steamed vegetables. So, if you want a more delectable grilled zucchini, salting it before cooking is a fantastic option to consider.
Can you eat zucchini raw on a sandwich?
Did you know that raw zucchini can be eaten? Although it has a gentle taste on its own, when combined with other ingredients, it can create various flavors. By slicing it thinly or grating it, it can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, or even as a decorative topping. This green vegetable is versatile in the kitchen and can subtly enhance the flavors of a meal.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, there is no better way to get your daily serving of veggies than with this delicious grilled zucchini sandwich recipe. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. By following the steps in this recipe, you can easily whip up a meal that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily make substitutions and variations to create a zucchini caprese or even a panini sandwich. The possibilities are endless!
So why not give this recipe a try today? Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you for it. With perfectly seasoned zucchini, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy mustard all wrapped in toasted bread, you simply can’t go wrong. Trust me, your family and friends will be impressed with your culinary skills!
Grilled Zucchini Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced seasoned, and grilled
- 2 slices whole wheat bread
- 1 -2 tablespoon hot pepper hummus (I used Sonny & Joes)
- sliced tomatoes
- lettuce
- mustard
Instructions
- You can toast the bread, but I didn’t. Spread the hummus on one slice of the bread and the mustard on the other slice.
- Layer the grilled zucchini, tomato slices, and lettuce between the bread.
- Salt and pepper to taste, but I think the hummus and mustard gives it a great flavor.
Your own notes
Nutrition
Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.