Courgette on the BBQ | How to Grill Courgettes to Smoky Perfection

Introduction: The Ultimate Summer Side

Courgettes are a brilliant addition to any BBQ — quick to cook, easy to prepare, and full of flavour. When grilled, courgettes develop a deliciously smoky, caramelised edge while staying tender in the middle. Whether you’re cooking them as a vegetarian main, a side dish, or part of a summer platter, courgettes on the barbecue are simple, healthy, and always a hit.

Why You’ll Love Courgette on the BBQ

Quick & Easy – Cooks in minutes
Low-Calorie & Nutritious – A healthy option packed with vitamins
Perfectly Smoky – BBQ flavour elevates this humble vegetable
Flexible Serving – Serve hot off the grill or as part of a salad

Ingredients

2–3 courgettes (green or yellow), sliced into rounds or strips
1–2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: garlic powder, lemon zest, chilli flakes, or fresh herbs

How to Cook Courgette on the BBQ – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Courgettes

Wash and dry the courgettes.
Slice them lengthways into strips about 0.5–1cm thick, or cut into rounds.
Pat dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture for better grilling.

Step 2: Season

Toss the slices in olive oil, salt, pepper, and any extras like lemon zest, garlic powder, or herbs.
Ensure each piece is lightly but evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat the BBQ

Heat your barbecue or grill to medium-high.
Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Courgettes

Lay the courgette slices directly on the grill in a single layer.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and they’re tender but not mushy.
Turn carefully with tongs to avoid tearing.

Serving Suggestions

As a Side: Serve with grilled meats, halloumi, burgers, or veggie skewers
In a Salad: Chop and toss with rocket, feta, and balsamic glaze
In a Wrap: Layer into flatbreads with hummus, tomatoes, and tahini
As a Starter: Stack with mozzarella and tomatoes for a smoky twist on caprese

Tips for Success

Don’t slice too thinly – they’ll fall apart on the grill
Oil the courgettes, not the grill for even coating
Keep an eye on the heat – medium-high is ideal to caramelise without burning
Use skewers for rounds to make flipping easier

Flavour Variations

Garlic & Herb – Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano
Spicy – Sprinkle with chilli flakes or paprika
Zesty – Finish with lemon juice or zest after grilling
Cheesy – Sprinkle with Parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prep Ahead: Slice and season in advance, store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours
Leftovers: Store cooked courgette in the fridge for up to 3 days
Serve Cold: Great added to pasta salads, couscous, or grain bowls

Conclusion

Grilling courgette on the BBQ is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy this summer vegetable. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger meal, its smoky, savoury flavour makes it a standout dish. With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, grilled courgette will quickly become a barbecue favourite.