Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza. These tasty bites combine the beloved flavors of pizza with the nutritional benefits of zucchini, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or serving appetizers at a party, these grilled zucchini slices will impress your family and friends. With their crispy edges and gooey cheese, they are a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices provide all the flavor of pizza while being lower in carbs and calories.
• Quick and Easy: With just 24 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your zucchini pizzas with various toppings—from classic pepperoni to veggies or even vegan cheese.
• Great for Leftovers: If you manage to have leftovers, they make for a tasty snack or lunch option the next day.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: Enjoy these slices fresh off the grill during summer gatherings or cook them indoors on a grill pan.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill brush
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The star of the show! It imparts a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the zucchini.
• Grill brush: Ensures clean grates for better cooking results and prevents sticking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing zucchini and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Base

• 8 large round zucchini slices (about 3-4 inches across and 3/4 inch thick)
• 3 T olive oil

For the Toppings

• 8 T Rao’s Pizza Sauce
• 12 T grated Mozzarella cheese
• 32 slices pepperoni (see notes)

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

First, oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in olive oil. Then preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Cut your large zucchini into thick slices approximately 3/4 inch thick. If you have large late-season zucchini, aim for about 4-inch wide slices. Avoid using overly large zucchinis with big seeds.

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini Slices

Place your zucchini slices on the preheated grill. Grill for about 7 minutes, checking for grill marks on the bottom side until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Rotate for Cooking

If one side of the zucchini is larger, start grilling that side first so it can serve as the “top” after adding toppings.

Step 5: Heat Sauce (Optional)

While grilling, if you prefer warm sauce, you can heat it up now. However, this step is optional.

Step 6: Add Sauce

Remove grilled zucchini from the grill and place them grilled-side up on a cutting board. Add one tablespoon of pizza sauce to each slice.

Step 7: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle one tablespoon of grated Mozzarella cheese over each sauced zucchini slice.

Step 8: Add Pepperoni

Top each with four pepperoni slices or your choice of toppings.

Step 9: Finish with Cheese

Add a small pinch more mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 10: Return to Grill

Put the loaded zucchini slices back on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about another 7 minutes until cheese is melted and toppings are lightly browned.

Step 11: Serve Hot

Carefully remove your Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices from the grill and enjoy them hot!

These Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices not only satisfy cravings but also show you can enjoy pizza in a healthier way!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional pizza. They make a perfect appetizer or main dish for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve these zucchini slices as a starter at your next party. Their unique flavor will impress your guests and spark conversation.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing meal. A simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the grilled zucchini.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving. This adds a sweet and tangy element that enhances the dish’s overall taste.

With Additional Toppings

• Experiment with different toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. This allows you to customize each slice according to personal preferences.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include grilled zucchini pizza slices on a charcuterie board alongside meats and cheeses. They add variety and cater to veggie lovers.

With Dipping Sauces

• Provide dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli on the side. This adds another layer of flavor and makes them fun to eat.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

To ensure your Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the right zucchini: Select firm, medium-sized zucchini that are not overly mature with large seeds for the best texture.
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks.
• Cut uniformly: Slice your zucchini evenly for consistent cooking. Aim for thickness around 3/4 inch.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grill in batches if necessary, allowing enough space for each slice to cook evenly without steaming.
• Monitor cheese melting: Keep an eye on the cheese while grilling; remove the slices as soon as it’s melted and lightly browned.
• Serve immediately: For the best taste, enjoy Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices fresh off the grill while they are hot.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that offers crunchy texture and rich flavor, perfect for dipping into leftover sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella create a light salad that balances the hearty pizza slices.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta provides a refreshing contrast.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a fun summer feel to your table; grill it alongside your zucchini for added flavor.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can offer a creamy texture that pairs nicely with grilled dishes.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized goodies can be filled with cheese or breadcrumbs for added indulgence.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after savory bites of zucchini pizza slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling zucchini pizza slices may seem simple, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Oil: Not oiling the grill grates can lead to sticking. Always use a paper towel soaked in oil to coat the grates before grilling.

• Using Overripe Zucchini: Choosing overly large zucchini with big seeds can ruin the texture of your pizza slices. Opt for firm, medium-sized zucchinis for a crisp bite.

• Overloading Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make the zucchini slices soggy. Stick to a balance of sauce, cheese, and toppings for optimal flavor and texture.

• Neglecting Grill Temperature: Cooking on a low grill setting may result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect grill marks and tenderness.

• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Leaving the zucchini on the grill too long can lead to burnt edges. Keep an eye on them, especially when adding cheese and toppings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store grilled zucchini pizza slices in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

• Timeframe: You can freeze these slices for up to 2 months.
• Container: Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Layer parchment paper between slices if stacking.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds. This method may not retain crispiness.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, which helps regain some of that grilled texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices are a popular dish, and we often receive questions about their preparation and storage.

Can I use different toppings on Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices?

Yes! Feel free to customize your toppings based on personal preference. Vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms work great alongside classic pepperoni.

How do I ensure my Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices don’t become soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid overloading your zucchini with sauce or toppings. A thin layer is sufficient!

What type of cheese works best for Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices?

Mozzarella is ideal due to its melting properties. However, feel free to mix it with other cheeses like Parmesan or cheddar for extra flavor.

Can I prepare Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices ahead of time?

You can prep the zucchini slices and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Just add the toppings right before grilling for best results.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini Pizza Slices offer a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional pizza. With their versatility, you can easily customize them with various sauces and toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to please everyone at your table! Give this recipe a try and enjoy experimenting with different flavors!