North Dakota Grilled Zucchini with Herb Butter

Introduction

This North Dakota Grilled Zucchini with Herb Butter recipe makes the most of summer's freshest ingredient by transforming simple zucchini into a melt-in-your-mouth side dish. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, each zucchini slice is infused with rich herb butter and perfectly seared on the flat top for deep flavor without burnt edges. Whether you're grilling steaks or fish in the center, this veggie side sizzles to perfection on the flat cooktop, soaking up flavor and flaunting restaurant-quality grill marks.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/2" strips
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place three paper napkins soaked in vegetable oil in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack hardwood firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire heat the grill for at least 20 minutes.
4. The flat top will be hot and ready for grilling once it reaches optimal searing heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with chopped parsley, thyme, and minced garlic.
2. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the zucchini strips.
2. Brush lightly with melted butter (not olive oil – butter adds richer flavor).

Step 4: Grill the Zucchini

1. Place the seasoned zucchini slices on the Arteflame flat top cooktop closer to the center for a hotter sear.
2. Grill each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden and slightly charred, turning only once.

Step 5: Toss with Herb Butter and Serve

1. Transfer the grilled zucchini to a large bowl.
2. Add the herb butter and toss gently until the zucchini is fully coated.
3. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips

• Use the inner hot zone of the flat cooktop for quick searing, then move to outer zone to keep warm.
• Don't over-flip the zucchini – let each side develop beautiful grill marks before turning.
• The butter and fresh herbs will caramelize slightly on the hot griddle, adding extra flavor.
• Keep other grilled items nearby – the Arteflame cooktop is big enough to cook everything at once!
• Lemon zest can be added for an extra bright note.

Variations

1. Spicy Zucchini: Add red pepper flakes to the herb butter for heat.
2. Parmesan Zucchini: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over zucchini right after grilling.
3. Smoky Paprika Zucchini: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika to butter blend before grilling.
4. Mint & Basil Zucchini: Swap thyme and parsley with chopped fresh mint and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
5. Lemon Garlic Zucchini: Add 1 tsp lemon zest and use double the garlic in butter for citrusy zing.

Conclusion

Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, this North Dakota Grilled Zucchini with Herb Butter is your go-to side for any summer cookout. Whether you're grilling meats or plant-based mains, this flavorful veggie dish will hold its own on the table. Simple, delicious, and grilled 100% on your Arteflame, cleanup is a breeze and the result is always crowd-pleasing.

Best pairings

• Grilled Ribeye or Filet Mignon (reverse seared on Arteflame)
• A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled corn on the cob with herbed butter
• Crusty garlic bread