How To Make Squash And Zucchini On The Grill

You can make squash and zucchini on the grill by slicing them into planks or halves, brushing them with oil, and cooking them over medium-high heat until they’re tender with nice char marks.
 
Grilled squash and zucchini are one of the easiest and most delicious summer side dishes you can make.
 
They soak up smoky flavor beautifully, and they cook in just a few minutes.
 
Whether you’re using yellow squash, zucchini, or both, grilling brings out a natural sweetness that roasting just can’t match.
 
In this post, we’ll go over how to grill squash and zucchini perfectly, the best seasonings to use, and how to avoid the mushy results that give grilled vegetables a bad name.
 
Let’s fire up the grill.
 

How to Make Squash and Zucchini on the Grill

Making squash and zucchini on the grill comes down to three things: the right cut, the right heat, and the right timing.
 
Get those right, and you’ll have perfectly grilled squash and zucchini every single time.
 

1. Choose Firm, Fresh Squash and Zucchini

The best grilled squash and zucchini start with firm, fresh produce.
 
Look for squash and zucchini that are heavy for their size with shiny, unblemished skin.
 
Smaller to medium-sized squash and zucchini tend to have fewer seeds and better texture on the grill.
 
If you’re growing your own, pick them young, because oversized zucchini can turn watery and mushy when grilled.
 

2. Cut Them the Right Way

How you cut your squash and zucchini matters more than you might think.
 
For zucchini, slice lengthwise into quarter-inch planks or cut in half lengthwise if they’re small.
 
For yellow squash, the same approach works great because the flat surfaces sit nicely on the grill grates.
 
Avoid cutting them too thin, or they’ll fall apart, and avoid thick chunks, or the outside will char before the inside cooks.
 

3. Season and Oil Before Grilling

Before your squash and zucchini hit the grill, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
 
The oil prevents sticking and helps the seasonings cling to the surface.
 
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs if you want extra flavor on your grilled squash and zucchini.
 
Let them sit for about ten minutes so the seasoning really sinks in.
 

Best Way to Grill Squash and Zucchini

The best way to grill squash and zucchini is over medium-high heat with a clean, well-oiled grate.
 
Here’s how to nail the process from start to finish.
 

1. Preheat Your Grill Properly

Preheat your grill to medium-high, around 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
 
A hot grill gives squash and zucchini those beautiful char marks without steaming them.
 
Clean the grates and brush them with oil right before placing the vegetables down.
 

2. Grill for 3 to 4 Minutes Per Side

Place your squash and zucchini directly on the grates and close the lid.
 
Cook for three to four minutes, then flip and cook another three to four minutes.
 
Grilled squash and zucchini are done when they’re tender but still hold their shape.
 
If you’re using a grill basket, toss them occasionally so they cook evenly on all sides.
 

3. Avoid Overcooking

The biggest mistake people make with squash and zucchini on the grill is overcooking them.
 
Zucchini and squash are mostly water, so once they soften too much, they turn to mush.
 
Pull them off the grill while they still have a slight bite, because they’ll continue softening as they rest.
 

4. Finish with Fresh Toppings

Once your grilled squash and zucchini come off the heat, add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parmesan.
 
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or mint take grilled squash and zucchini to the next level.
 
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of pesto also works wonders.
 

Seasoning Ideas for Grilled Squash and Zucchini

There are endless ways to season squash and zucchini on the grill, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
 
Try a Mediterranean blend with oregano, lemon zest, and feta.
 
Go smoky with cumin, chili powder, and lime for a taco-inspired twist on grilled squash and zucchini.
 
Or keep it simple with garlic, olive oil, and flaky sea salt, which lets the natural flavor of the squash and zucchini shine.
 

So, How Do You Make Squash and Zucchini on the Grill?

You make squash and zucchini on the grill by slicing them into planks, coating them in oil and seasonings, and cooking them over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side.
 
Grilled squash and zucchini are quick, healthy, and packed with smoky summer flavor.
 
Just remember to cut them thick enough to hold up, keep the heat high, and pull them off before they turn mushy.
 
With these tips, your grilled squash and zucchini will become a regular on your cookout menu.