Description
These Mexican Grilled Zucchini Ribbon Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring thinly sliced zucchini seasoned with tangy tajín and grilled to perfection. They offer a delightful smoky char and a touch of spice, perfect for summer barbecues or a healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 zucchini, sliced thin - approximately 1/8 inch thick
Seasoning and Oil
- ¼ cup tajín, more or less to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil for brushing, plus extra if needed
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini: Use a mandoline slicer to cut the zucchini into thin ribbons about 1/8 inch thick. Bend a slice gently to check that it’s thin enough and flexible enough to weave.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to high, aiming for a temperature between 450 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure quick char and caramelization.
- Prepare zucchini ribbons: Lay the zucchini slices flat on a baking sheet. Lightly brush one side with olive oil, then sprinkle tajín seasoning evenly over the oiled surface. Flip each slice and repeat the oiling and seasoning on the other side.
- Weave onto skewers: Carefully thread the zucchini ribbons onto bamboo or stainless steel skewers by weaving them in a zigzag pattern, creating a layered ribbon effect.
- Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning 2 to 3 times. Allow the zucchini to develop lovely charred spots and caramelized edges without becoming mushy.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin slices to ensure even cooking and easy weaving.
- Tajín seasoning can be replaced with a homemade mix of chili powder, lime zest, and salt if desired.
- Brush the zucchini ribbons gently with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote caramelization.
- If skewers do not stay on the grill well, consider using stainless steel skewers for better heat conduction and sturdiness.
- Serve immediately for best texture; zucchini can become soft if left to sit after grilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 136 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
