Introduction

Grilling zucchini brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky char! This Albanian-style grilled zucchini is brushed with a fragrant garlic butter dressing, making it an irresistible side dish or appetizer. Using the Arteflame grill, you get a perfectly caramelized sear without burning, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prep the zucchini

1. Thinly slice the zucchinis lengthwise for even grilling.
2. Pat the slices dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Grill the zucchini

1. Grease the flat cooktop with a light coating of butter.
2. Place the zucchini slices on the griddle in a single layer.
3. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden sear.
4. Move them to a slightly cooler area on the cooktop to finish cooking without burning.

Step 4: Make the garlic butter dressing

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Dress the zucchini

1. Brush the grilled zucchini slices with the garlic butter mixture while they are still warm.
2. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness.

Tips

• For best results, use room-temperature butter to blend more easily with the garlic and spices.
• Adjust the heat zones on the Arteflame by placing the zucchini closer to the center for more sear, then moving them outward to cook through.
• Let the grilled zucchini rest for a minute before serving to absorb the garlic butter flavors.

Variations

1. Cheesy Garlic Zucchini: Top the hot zucchini slices with grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Spicy Harissa Zucchini: Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste into the butter dressing for a smoky, spicy kick.
3. Herb-Infused Zucchini: Add chopped oregano, rosemary, or thyme for an aromatic twist.
4. Honey-Lemon Zucchini: Drizzle with a bit of honey and extra lemon juice for sweet acidity.
5. Walnut-Crusted Zucchini: Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts over the grilled slices for a nutty crunch.

Conclusion

This Albanian-style grilled zucchini is quick, easy, and packed with incredible smoky flavor. Cooking on the Arteflame grill ensures a perfect sear without burning, while the garlic butter dressing makes every bite rich and satisfying.

Best Pairings

• Grilled lamb chops
• A fresh Albanian-style tomato salad
• Warm pita bread with tzatziki
• Chilled white wine or homemade lemonade