Marinated Grilled Summer Squash Recipe

When it comes to summer grilling, squash often takes a backseat to more popular vegetables like corn or bell peppers. However, this versatile and nutritious vegetable also deserves its time in the spotlight. Grilling zucchini and yellow squash not only enhances their natural flavors but also adds a smoky char that you just can't get on the stove. 

Wellness coach and recipe developer Miriam Hahn brings us this recipe for marinated grilled summer squash and says, "I love cooking vegetables on the grill, especially in the summer when I don't want to heat up the kitchen. The best part about this recipe is the lemony marinade. It soaks into the zucchini and keeps it juicy and flavorful." Whether you serve it as a side dish, chop it and put it in a salad, or layer it into a hearty sandwich, this marinated grilled squash will be your new favorite veggie.

To make this recipe pick up some zucchini and yellow squash. "Since we are putting these directly on the grill grates, its best to choose large squash so they don't fall through," Hahn shares. For our flavorful marinade you'll need some garlic, avocado oil, champagne vinegar, lemon, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper. "I'm using avocado oil here since we'll be cooking at high heat, and it has a high smoke point," Hahn explains. Feel free to use another neutral oil like canola or vegetable.

To prepare the squash for grilling, cut off both ends and discard. Then cut the squash in half lengthwise, then again into quarters. This is the perfect size spear for the grill and allows the marinade to penetrate the squash easily. Put the cut squash into a long container with a lid. While you have your knife out, mince the garlic.

To make the marinade, grab a small bowl and whisk. Combine the garlic, avocado oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this over the zucchini and yellow squash. Put the container into the fridge for 2 hours or more to marinate. "This marinade can be used for all types of vegetables on the grill like a medley of peppers, onions, and mushrooms," Hahn shares.

Once you're almost done with the marinating step, heat up the grill to medium high. When the grill is hot, place the squash directly on the grates, crossing them perpendicular. Grill for 20 minutes, then flip them over for 10 minutes. You should see defined grill marks at this point, and they will smell divine. Remove them from the grill and pour any remaining marinade on them for serving. This simple yet elegant dish is a great way to elevate your next summer gathering!