Zucchini Ribbon Skewers Grilled

These zucchini ribbon skewers are a simple way to turn fresh summer squash into a bright flavored side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood. The lemon garlic butter makes each tender ribbon shine while the fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness that screams summer. They are a go to when I want something light yet impressive on the table without much fuss.

I first made these during a warm weekend cookout and was amazed how something so straightforward could feel so special.

Ingredients

• Zucchini squash: for tender ribbons choose firm bright zucchini without soft spots for best results
• Summer squash: add variety of flavors and colors pick young medium sized ones to match zucchini thickness
• Fresh herbs like parsley and basil: bring herbal brightness pick deeply colored leaves to maximize flavor
• Unsalted butter: is the base for the marinade creamy and neutral letting garlic and lemon shine
• Garlic cloves: fresh and minced for punchy garlicky depth
• Fresh lemon zest: brightens the butter with citrus aroma use unwaxed lemons for easier zesting
• Crushed red pepper flakes: add a subtle heat adjust quantity to suit your spice tolerance
• Pinch of salt and pepper: to enhance all the flavors balance the dish

Instructions

Build The Grill:

Heat the grill or grill pan to medium high so the zucchini cooks quickly without drying out

Create The Ribbons:

Stand zucchini and summer squash upright then use a vegetable peeler to shave off long thin ribbons. Aim for consistent thickness around one fourth inch so they grill evenly

Coat With Lemon Garlic Butter:

Brush one side of each ribbon liberally with the lemon garlic butter mixture. This step flavors the base before folding and skewering

Skewer The Ribbons:

Fold each ribbon back and forth in an accordion style then skewer carefully through the center to hold layers together. This makes them easy to grill and keeps ribbons in shape

Final Butter Brush:

After assembling all skewers give them a final coat of lemon garlic butter to keep them moist and boost flavor on the grill

Grill The Skewers:

Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes before rotating to grill all sides evenly. Repeat rotating two more times to get perfect grill marks and tender ribbons

Finish And Serve:

Remove from grill and brush once more with lemon butter if desired. Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs on top and choose to serve on skewers or remove ribbons onto a plate for sharing

One summer I brought these to a family reunion and everyone asked for the recipe which made me appreciate how little special effort builds great flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or on the grill to retain texture. Because of the fresh herbs and butter, they are best eaten fresh but suitable for quick next day enjoyment.

Ingredient Swaps

Butter can be swapped for olive oil or vegan butter for dairy free versions but keep the garlic and lemon for that signature brightness Fresh herbs may be varied to include thyme or oregano based on what you have on hand for subtle flavor shifts You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast just before serving for a savory boost if you like

Serving Ideas

These zucchini ribbons make a fantastic side for grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also feel right at home alongside grain bowls or as part of a summer picnic spread. Serve with crusty bread to soak up any leftover lemon butter.

Grilling gives the zucchini a lovely smoky flavor that highlights the fresh lemon and garlic notes. Over the years this has become my summer standby side dish when I want something fresh and light but with a bit of wow factor and obvious care in the cooking.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do you create the zucchini ribbons?

Use a vegetable peeler or mandolin to shave the zucchini lengthwise into thin, wide ribbons, ensuring even cooking and easy folding for skewers.

→ What type of herbs work best with this dish?

Fresh parsley and basil add bright, aromatic flavors that complement the grilled squash without overpowering it.

→ Can I prepare this without a grill?

Yes, a grill pan or even a broiler can be used to achieve a similar char and tenderness on the zucchini ribbons.

→ How long should the skewers be grilled?

Grill the skewers for about 6 to 9 minutes total, turning every 2 to 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and light charring.

→ What is the purpose of lemon butter in this dish?

Lemon butter adds bright citrus notes and richness that enhance the natural sweetness of the zucchini and summer squash ribbons.