Name: Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash with Lemon Herb Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 1/2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice; Zest of 1 Lemon; 1 clove Fresh Garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Baharat Seasoning; 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cumin; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste; 2 medium Zucchini; 2 medium Yellow Summer Squash; 1 large Red Onion; 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup Fresh Mint, chopped; 1/3 cup crumbled Feta Cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 36 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying way to enjoy summer’s bounty, this Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash with Lemon Herb Feta Recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been waiting for. Combining smoky, tender grilled zucchini and yellow squash with the bright zing of lemon, fragrant fresh herbs, and creamy crumbles of feta, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive backyard gathering, this recipe elevates simple veggies to show-stopping status.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth that has blue checkered lines underneath. On the plate, there are three types of sliced vegetables arranged in separate groups: yellow squash slices on the top left, sliced green zucchini at the bottom, and quartered red onions on the top right. On the bottom left corner of the plate, there is a small beige spoon filled with yellow lemon zest. A sprig of green parsley is near the yellow squash, and another green herb is placed beside the plate on the marbled surface. The textures of the vegetables are fresh and moist, and the colors are bright and natural. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fresh zucchinis and yellow squash that bring vibrant color and subtle sweetness, to the lemon and herbs that add zesty brightness, and finally the feta, which adds that irresistible creamy saltiness. Let’s break down these essentials so you can grill your way to perfection.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil to enhance the grilled veggies with a silky finish and help them crisp on the grill.

Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon gives an invigorating citrus punch that wakes up all the flavors.
Fresh Garlic: Adds a subtle savory depth to the dressing without overpowering the dish.
Baharat Seasoning: This warming spice blend with hints of pepper, cloves, and cinnamon adds an unexpected twist and earthy undertones.

Ground Cumin: A pinch brightens the dressing with its nutty, aromatic tones.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all tastes perfectly.
Zucchini and Yellow Summer Squash: The stars of the dish, sliced thick enough to retain texture but thin enough to grill evenly.

Red Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch after grilling.
Fresh Parsley and Mint: These fresh herbs bring vibrant green color and a fresh, cooling lift to the dish.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta melts slightly on warm grilled veggies, adding creamy, tangy notes that pull everything together.

How to Make Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash with Lemon Herb Feta Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dressing

To kick things off, whisk together your olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, baharat seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This bright, flavorful dressing will not only season the vegetables but also tie the entire dish together with its tangy, herbal goodness. Setting it aside allows the flavors to meld while you prep your veggies.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

Wash and dry the zucchini and yellow squash, then cut each into 1/2 inch thick rounds—this thickness ensures they hold up well on the grill without falling apart. For the red onion, peel and slice into wedges that grill beautifully and bring a slight sweetness after cooking. Toss all the veggies in a tablespoon of olive oil to coat; this helps develop a gorgeous char and prevents sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat because this temperature gives you those lovely grill marks while cooking the veggies just right. Arrange the veggies in a single layer on a grill basket to make flipping easy and ensure even cooking. Grill for about 7 – 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender, slightly charred, and irresistible. The smoky flavor at this stage is key for the dish’s character.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now that your vegetables are perfectly grilled, gently toss them with half of the lemon dressing and the fresh parsley and mint. This first toss infuses the veggies with fresh herbaceous notes. Transfer everything to a serving platter, drizzle over the remaining dressing, and scatter crumbles of feta cheese on top. The creamy feta melting slightly on warm veggies adds the final, soulful touch.

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash with Lemon Herb Feta Recipe

A clear glass bowl holds a colorful salad with three main layers: at the bottom are slices of yellow squash and charred purple onion pieces, followed by a thick layer of chopped green herbs like mint and parsley. A spoon above the bowl drizzles light brown dressing over the salad. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a white and blue checkered cloth to the left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this already vibrant dish, sprinkle extra chopped herbs like basil or dill for an added punch of freshness and aroma. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a wonderful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta. And don’t hesitate to add an extra squeeze of lemon on top for a fresh burst just before serving.

Side Dishes

This grilled veggie plate makes a stunning side at any barbecue or weeknight meal. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a light, Mediterranean-inspired dinner. It also complements couscous, quinoa, or a chilled pasta salad for a balanced, colorful spread. The lemony, herbaceous flavors are so versatile they’ll shine alongside almost any main course.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the grilled zucchini and yellow squash over a bed of peppery arugula or baby spinach to add an extra layer of green and a slight peppery note. For a more rustic look, use a large wooden platter and sprinkle edible flowers or microgreens around for a dinner-table wow factor. You can even stuff the grilled vegetables into warm pita bread, drizzle with a bit more feta, and enjoy a delightful veggie sandwich with a satisfying crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare because this dish is so addictive), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish even more delicious when served cold or at room temperature.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grilled veggies without the feta or dressing for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge and add fresh dressing and feta to revive its brightness. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly change the texture of the squash and zucchini.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the veggies from getting soggy. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs after reheating helps revive the fresh flavors perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with pattypan squash, delicata, or even eggplant slices. Just be sure to slice them evenly so they grill uniformly alongside the zucchini and yellow squash.

Is there a substitute for Baharat seasoning?

If you don’t have Baharat on hand, you can substitute with a blend of ground cinnamon, allspice, coriander, paprika, black pepper, nutmeg, and cumin to recreate its warm, aromatic flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts to maintain a satisfying texture and a salty bite.

Do I need a grill basket?

While a grill basket is handy for grilling these smaller veggie pieces evenly, you can also skewer the veggies or use a grill pan. Just be sure to flip carefully to avoid losing any tasty morsels through the grill grates.

How long will the grilled veggies last in the fridge?

The grilled vegetables, when stored properly, will keep their best flavor and texture for 3 to 4 days refrigerated in an airtight container. After that, they may begin to soften too much for enjoying cold or reheated.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash with Lemon Herb Feta Recipe is a shining example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or looking for a quick veggie side that feels anything but ordinary, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. So fire up that grill and get ready for a dish bursting with sunshine, zest, and the kind of flavors that make everyone ask for seconds.