How To Grill the Absolute Best Zucchini

Step 1

Heat the grill to medium-high, direct heat. Heat an outdoor grill for medium-high, direct heat. Scrape the grill grates clean if needed.

Step 2

Cut the zucchini into planks or ribbons. Trim the ends from 1 pound zucchini. Cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks. Alternatively, thinly shave the zucchini with Y-shaped peeler or mandoline, and discard the core.

Step 3

Thread the zucchini ribbons onto skewers. If grilling ribbons, fold each zucchini ribbon back onto itself like an accordion, and thread about 5 ribbons onto each skewer. Place on a baking sheet.

Step 4

Season the zucchini. Drizzle the zucchini with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 5

Grill the zucchini. For zucchini planks, arrange in a single layer on the grill grates. Cover and grill without disturbing until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender, 3 to 4 minutes per side. For zucchini ribbons, place the skewers on the grill grates (you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your grill). Grill, turning occasionally, until the ends of the squash are charred, 4 to 5 minutes total.