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.
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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.