The moment I took my first bite of Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers, I knew I had uncovered something special. The buttery richness, complemented by the aromatic garlic, felt like a warm hug on my taste buds. With summer barbecue season in full swing, these skewers have become my go-to side dish, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any grilled meal.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients transforms zucchini into a delightful crowd-pleaser in no time. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these gorgeous skewers that are not only pleasing to the eye but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're looking for a tasty vegetarian option or a vibrant side dish to accompany grilled meats, these Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers will elevate your dining experience without taking away from the joy of home cooking. So, let's dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
- You will appreciate the ease of preparing these skewers as they require minimal ingredients and only 20 minutes to make.
- The flavor of buttery garlic elevates the simple zucchini into a mouthwatering side dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
- Their versatility means you can serve them as a vegetarian option or pair them effortlessly with any grilled meats.
- Visually striking and colorful, these skewers will brighten up your table and make your meal feel festive.
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Ingredients
For the Skewers
• Zucchini – 4 sliced into thick rounds; this summer vegetable is the star of the dish, adding a fresh and juicy texture.
• Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoon melted; provides a rich, creamy base for that heavenly garlic flavor.
• Garlic – 3 cloves minced; the aromatic powerhouse that infuses each skewer with savory goodness.
• Olive Oil – 1 tbsp; enhances the buttery richness while helping to prevent sticking on the grill.
For Seasoning
• Salt – 0.5 teaspoon to taste; enhances the natural flavors of the zucchini and balances the richness of the butter.
• Black Pepper – 0.25 teaspoon to taste; adds a subtle warmth that complements the garlic perfectly.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – 1 tablespoon chopped; brightens the dish with a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese – optional, for garnish; if you're feeling decadent, this will add a lovely salty finish to your skewers.
With these simple ingredients, your Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are bound to become a favorite at your barbecues and weeknight dinners alike!
How to Make Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
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Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F). This ensures that your skewers will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
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Thread the zucchini rounds onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This allows for even cooking and ensures a perfect char if you're grilling.
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Mix the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined. This fragrant mixture is the heart of your skewers!
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Brush the garlic butter mixture generously onto the zucchini skewers. Make sure to coat them well to infuse every bite with that irresistible flavor.
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Grill or roast the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and lightly charred. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
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Garnish the skewers with the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and, if desired, add some grated Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor boost!
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides and pairings that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of these skewers.
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy and zesty, this chicken's brightness enhances the buttery richness of the zucchini.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty, fragrant dish that adds a chewy texture, making for a hearty counterpoint to the tender skewers.
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Caprese Salad: With fresh tomatoes and mozzarella, this salad introduces refreshing acidity and creaminess that balances the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it's perfect for mopping up any leftover garlic butter from the skewers, creating a satisfying bite.
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Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet and slightly charred, the corn echoes the grill marks on the zucchini for a beautiful summer spread.
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Chilled Rosé Wine: A light, crisp wine that enhances the savory notes of the skewers while keeping your meal refreshing.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and citrusy sorbet cleanses the palate, providing a sweet contrast to the savory skewers.
These pairings will create a memorable dining experience, perfect for family gatherings or cozy outdoor meals!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can slice the zucchini and prepare the garlic butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the zucchini rounds in an airtight container to prevent browning, and keep the garlic butter mix covered in the fridge. When you're ready to whip up your skewers, thread the zucchini onto skewers, brush them with the prepared garlic butter, and grill or roast for about 8-10 minutes. They’ll be just as delicious and bursting with flavor, making your mealtime as stress-free as possible!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet to retain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen skewers, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Variations
Feel free to customize these skewers to create your own tasty spin on this simple dish!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter for unsalted butter to keep the richness without dairy.
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Herbed Up: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mix to turn up the heat for spice lovers.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the skewers just before serving for a refreshing burst that complements the zucchini.
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Cheesy Garlic: For an even more decadent skewers, replace the Parmesan with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added tang.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished skewers for a sweet touch that balances the saltiness of the butter and cheese.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the garlic butter to give your skewers a deliciously smoky flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Balsamic Marinade: Marinade the zucchini in balsamic vinegar before brushing with garlic butter for an added depth of flavor that's simply irresistible.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers, choose zucchini that feels firm and heavy for its size to ensure maximum flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers, as allowing space between the zucchini rounds promotes even cooking and nice grill marks.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle heat.
- Always brush the skewers with garlic butter midway through cooking to keep them moist and enhance the flavor.
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best zucchini for skewers?
Absolutely! Look for zucchini that is firm and heavy for its size. The skin should be smooth and vibrant green; avoid any with dark spots or soft patches, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresher zucchini will give you that lovely juicy texture in your skewers.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat them, popping them in the oven or on a skillet works wonders to retain their delicious flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers?
Very! To freeze your skewers, carefully wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air gets in. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, let thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my zucchini skewers are not cooking evenly?
No worries! If you find your skewers aren't cooking evenly, it could be because they're overcrowded. Make sure there’s space between the zucchini rounds to allow for even heat distribution. You might also need to adjust your cooking temperature; ensure it’s at medium-high heat for that perfect char!
Are Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers suitable for pets?
It’s best to avoid giving these skewers to pets, especially due to the garlic and butter content. Garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats, so while your family will enjoy these skewers, keep them as a treat just for you!
Can I add spices or other vegetables to my skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a bit of heat. Also, think about incorporating other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, threading them in between the zucchini pieces for added texture and flavor!
Garlic Butter Zucchini Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Thread the zucchini rounds onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Mix the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously onto the zucchini skewers.
- Grill or roast the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and lightly charred.
- Garnish the skewers with the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and add grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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