Name: Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini; 2 tablespoons olive oil; to taste Kosher salt; to taste black pepper; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 14 oz can chickpeas (rinsed and drained); 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/3 cup basil vinaigrette; Juice of ½ lemon lemon; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; to taste Kosher salt; to taste black pepper; extra basil vinaigrette (for garnish); chopped basil (for garnish); extra feta cheese (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print it

There’s something truly special about summer evenings spent in the kitchen, with the aromas of fresh vegetables filling the air. One of my absolute favorites to prepare is Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette. Imagine the vibrant colors of grilled zucchini, perfectly shaped to cradle a delicious mix of quinoa, chickpeas, and tomatoes. It’s a dish that not only brings warmth to the table but also sparks joy among family and friends. I remember the first time I made it; the sound of the zucchini sizzling on the grill and the laughter echoing around me created a moment I’ll never forget.

This dish is all about those beautiful summer flavors and the simplicity of fresh ingredients. Each bite feels like a celebration of freshness—perfectly grilled zucchini filled with a hearty quinoa filling, drizzled with tangy vinaigrette. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce, and it’s so versatile! Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these zucchini boats are sure to impress.

As I serve Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette at gatherings, I love watching as my guests take their first bites—their expressions of delight are priceless. The crunch of the zucchini paired with the creamy feta and the zest of lemon add layers of flavor that make this dish unforgettable. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious! Accessing the flavors of summer through this dish is a joy, and I hope you can share in that experience.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
9 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan

What Makes This Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette Special

Fresh and Flavorful

The beauty of Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette lies in its freshness. Using seasonal vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes truly enhances the dish. When grilled, the zucchini becomes tender yet maintains a slight crunch, making each bite satisfying.

Healthy and Nutritious

This recipe is packed with nutrients. Zucchini is low in calories but rich in essential vitamins and minerals, while quinoa serves as a fantastic protein source, making this dish balanced and wholesome.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you need a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these zucchini boats fit the bill perfectly. They can be served warm off the grill or made ahead and enjoyed cold, making them ideal for picnics or potlucks.

Customizable Filling

The filling can be adjusted based on what you have on hand. Whether you want to add more vegetables, different beans, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch, this dish is incredibly adaptable.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to streamline your week, these zucchini boats can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. They’re easy to reheat, making healthy eating a breeze.

Ingredients Overview for Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette

The ingredients for Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette are a celebration of summer flavors and fresh produce. Each component plays a crucial role, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. The main players—zucchini, quinoa, and chickpeas—combine to deliver wonderful textures and flavors, while the addition of feta and basil vinaigrette brings a delightful creaminess and tang.

4 medium zucchini – These serve as the perfect vessel for our filling, offering a subtle flavor and satisfying crunch.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Essential for grilling, it adds richness and helps achieve that perfect char.
Kosher salt and black pepper – These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of our ingredients.
2 cups cooked quinoa – A fantastic source of protein and fiber, quinoa lends a hearty texture to the filling.
1 (14 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained – Chickpeas add extra protein and a lovely creaminess to the mix.
1 cup halved grape or cherry tomatoes – Bursting with sweetness, tomatoes bring a juicy contrast to the dish.
1/3 cup basil vinaigrette – This dressing adds a burst of flavor and brightness that ties everything together.
Juice of ½ lemon – Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – Feta contributes a creamy and tangy element that complements the dish perfectly.
Extra basil vinaigrette for garnish – A drizzle of additional dressing elevates the presentation and flavor.
Chopped basil and extra feta cheese for garnish – These garnishes add color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.

How to Assemble Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette

Preparing Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette is straightforward and fun! Follow along with these steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but looks stunning on the plate.

Start by preparing your zucchini. Use a small spoon to lightly scoop out the seeds in the middle of the zucchini. Be careful not to dig too deeply; you want to leave enough flesh to hold the filling.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that the zucchini will cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks.
Drizzle the zucchini with olive oil on both sides. Make sure to rub the oil over the entire surface to ensure it is well coated. This will help to prevent sticking and enhance the flavor.
Season the zucchini generously with Kosher salt and black pepper. Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the zucchini.
Carefully place the zucchini on the hot grill. Grill for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they are soft and have nice grill marks. Be cautious not to let them get too soft; you want them to hold their shape and not become mushy.
Once grilled, remove the zucchini from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, tomatoes, basil vinaigrette, lemon juice, and feta cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Now for the fun part! Spoon the quinoa mixture into the grilled zucchini boats, packing them generously.
Garnish with a drizzle of additional basil vinaigrette, some chopped basil, and extra feta cheese. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor!
Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures. Each bite is a reminder of summer!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality makes a big difference. Fresh, in-season produce enhances the flavor of your dish.
Perfect Grilling: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing zucchini on it. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and prevents sticking.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add more vegetables or different herbs to the quinoa filling based on your preference.
Serving Temperature: These zucchini boats can be enjoyed warm or made ahead and served cold, providing versatility for meal planning.

Change It Up

There are so many fun ways to vary Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette to keep things exciting! Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.

Stuffing Variations: Try adding various ingredients to the quinoa filling such as spinach, roasted red peppers, or different types of beans.
Spice it Up: For a bolder flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika into your filling.
Cheese Choices: If feta isn’t your favorite, feel free to use goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these zucchini boats with a side salad or serve them alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
Make it Vegan: Simply omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative to keep the dish plant-based.

Perfect Matches for Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette

When serving Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette, there are numerous delicious pairings to consider. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Pair with a Light Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully.
Ideal for Lunch or Dinner: These zucchini boats are versatile enough for a light lunch or a filling dinner, perfect for any occasion.
Seasonal Sides: Enjoy with seasonal sides like grilled asparagus or sweet corn salad to celebrate summer flavors.
Perfect for Picnics: They can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep them fresh.
Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh herbs or extra vinaigrette just before serving to elevate the presentation.
Complement with Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.

FAQ

These zucchini boats pair wonderfully with a light salad or grilled meats for a complete meal. Consider serving them with a refreshing mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option. They’re also great on their own for a lighter lunch!

Leftover Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This makes them a great meal prep option!

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it separately. Simply grill the zucchini and stuff them shortly before serving. This keeps the zucchini fresh and maintains its texture. They also taste great cold, making them perfect for picnics or lunchboxes!

Yes! The filling for Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette is highly customizable. Feel free to add different vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, and experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste. You can also substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it entirely for a vegan option!

Conclusion

In summary, Grilled Zucchini Boats with Quinoa Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings the best of summer flavors to your table. Its simplicity allows the fresh ingredients to shine, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s not only delicious but also a wonderful way to showcase seasonal produce. Enjoy every bite!