Cheesy Grilled Ohio Zucchini on the Arteflame

Introduction

When summer hits Ohio, farm-fresh zucchini is in abundance—and there's no better way to enjoy it than grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. This Cheesy Grilled Zucchini recipe locks in flavor with garlic butter, sharp cheddar, and perfectly crisp edges, all cooked to sizzling excellence on the Arteflame flat top griddle. We use no pots, no pans—just pure outdoor grilling simplicity. With a quick start-up, virtually no cleanup, and multiple heat zones to work with, this unique grill gives you ultimate control to craft flavorful food that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 4 medium Ohio zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow 20 minutes for the heat to build and distribute across the cooktop.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with freshly minced garlic.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Brush both sides of the sliced zucchini with garlic butter using a basting brush.
2. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Grill the Zucchini

1. Place the zucchini strips on the Arteflame flat top griddle, near the center for a faster sear if desired.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the zucchini begins to caramelize.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over each strip while still on the griddle.
2. Allow it to melt for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and gooey.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

1. Use a spatula to carefully transfer zucchini to a serving tray.
2. Top with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips

• Slice zucchini evenly for uniform cooking.
• Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and perfect browning.
• Grill close to the center for a quicker, deeper sear; move to outer edge if things get too hot.
• You can grate cheese right over the zucchini as it sears for max melt.
• Always clean the cooktop with a scraper while it’s still warm for easy cleanup.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Zucchini: Add diced jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
2. Mediterranean Zucchini: Use feta cheese, a sprinkle of oregano, and a drizzle of lemon juice just before serving.
3. Italian Caprese Zucchini: Top with mozzarella, cherry tomato halves, and fresh basil after grilling.
4. Bacon & Blue Zucchini: Crumble cooked bacon and blue cheese over hot grilled zucchini slices for a savory upgrade.
5. Garlic Parmesan Zucchini: Swap cheddar with grated Parmesan and add extra garlic in the butter for a nutty twist.

Conclusion

No need for pots or ovens—just you, the fresh flavors of Ohio zucchini, and your Arteflame grill. This cheesy grilled zucchini recipe is perfect for backyard dinners, BBQ parties, or as a hearty side to any meat. With the Arteflame grill’s consistent heat and golden sear, it’s all about sizzling simplicity with a gourmet result.

Best pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak reverse-seared on the center grate
• Buttery garlic grilled mushrooms on the outer ring
• Fresh lemony arugula salad with shaved parmesan
• Crisp Ohio craft beer or chilled Pinot Grigio