Tired of the same boring appetizers that disappear from the plate with barely a compliment? These Grilled Zucchini Rollups are the solution to your entertaining woes! Crisp on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, these little bundles of joy will have your guests asking for the recipe before they’ve finished their first bite.
As a summer entertaining specialist who’s been perfecting garden-to-table recipes for years, I’ve found that these zucchini rollups hit the sweet spot between impressive presentation and effortless preparation. They’re my go-to when I need something that looks fancy but doesn’t keep me trapped in the kitchen.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect zucchini, share my secret herb mixture for maximum flavor, reveal grilling techniques that ensure the perfect char, and answer your most pressing zucchini rollup questions. Let’s transform this humble summer squash into something extraordinary!
Why These Grilled Zucchini Rollups Work
- Uses abundant summer zucchini at the height of freshness
- Prep and grill in under 30 minutes for stress-free entertaining
- Customize fillings based on what’s in your fridge
- Perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties
- Naturally gluten-free and adaptable to various dietary preferences
- Showcases peak summer flavors in each bite
Choosing the Right Zucchini for Grilled Rollups
Best Zucchini Varieties for Grilling
Medium-sized zucchini (7-8 inches) work best for rollups. They’re flexible enough to roll without breaking yet substantial enough to hold fillings. Green zucchini is traditional, but yellow summer squash can create beautiful color contrast on your serving platter.
Buying Tips for Perfect Zucchini Rollups
Look for firm, unblemished zucchini with vibrant color. Avoid overly large ones (they tend to be seedy and watery) or tiny ones (too difficult to slice evenly). The skin should be glossy and free of nicks or soft spots.
Substitutions for Zucchini Rollups
If zucchini isn’t available, try using thin eggplant slices, large cucumber strips, or even grilled bell pepper strips. Each will bring a unique flavor profile while maintaining the rollup concept.
Ingredients & Prep for Zucchini Rollups
Zucchini Prep Essentials
Wash and dry zucchini thoroughly. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, cut lengthwise into strips approximately 1/8-inch thick. Too thin and they’ll fall apart; too thick and they won’t roll properly.
Marinades & Seasonings
- Extra virgin olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- Fresh lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Minced garlic – 2 cloves
- Italian seasoning blend – 1 teaspoon
- Sea salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Filling Options
For a Mediterranean-inspired filling, combine:
- Ricotta or goat cheese
- Fresh herbs (basil, mint, dill)
- Lemon zest
- Toasted pine nuts
- Roasted red peppers
Looking for more party inspiration? Check out my Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls for another crowd-pleasing appetizer option!
Step-by-Step Grilled Zucchini Rollup Instructions
Pre-Cooking Zucchini Rollup Prep
- Slice zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick strips.
- Brush both sides with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Let strips rest on paper towels for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Cooking Method for Zucchini Rollups
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Place zucchini strips on the grill perpendicular to grates.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until flexible with light grill marks.
- Transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
Assembly of Zucchini Rollups
- Spread 1-2 teaspoons of filling on each strip.
- Start at the narrower end and roll up tightly.
- Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange on a serving platter with the seam side down.
Serving Grilled Zucchini Rollups
For maximum flavor, serve at room temperature. These can be made up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated, but bring to room temperature before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Zucchini Rollups
Avoiding Common Zucchini Grilling Mistakes
- Don’t overcook! Zucchini should be pliable but not mushy
- Pat dry after grilling to prevent soggy rollups
- Season lightly as the filling will add more flavor
- Use a timer to ensure even cooking across all strips
Tool Recommendations for Zucchini Rollups
A mandoline slicer creates consistent, thin slices for professional-looking results. A cast-iron grill pan works perfectly if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Small offset spatulas help with flipping delicate zucchini strips.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare components up to 24 hours in advance: grill zucchini, make filling, refrigerate separately, and assemble just before serving. Completely assembled rollups will keep for about 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Find more delicious inspiration for your next gathering on my Pinterest page where I share seasonal appetizer ideas perfect for any occasion!
Flavor Variations for Grilled Zucchini Rollups
Spicy Zucchini Rollup Twist
Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling. For even more heat, include a thin slice of pepper jack cheese or stir sriracha into the base cheese mixture.
Mediterranean Zucchini Rollups
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version. A sprinkle of za’atar on the grilled zucchini before adding filling takes it to the next level.
Global Flavor Zucchini Rollups
Experiment with international flavors using this versatile canvas:
| Style | Base Cheese | Add-Ins | Garnish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Italian | Ricotta | Fresh basil, pine nuts | Balsamic drizzle |
| Mexican | Queso fresco | Cilantro, lime zest | Avocado crema |
| Middle Eastern | Labneh | Mint, cucumber | Pomegranate seeds |
| Asian-Inspired | Cream cheese | Ginger, scallions | Sesame seeds |
After mastering zucchini rollups, try your hand at my Smoked Wings Recipe for your next gathering!
Serving Suggestions for Zucchini Rollups
- Arrange on a bed of mixed greens with edible flowers for a stunning presentation
- Serve with a side of lemon-garlic yogurt dip for additional freshness
- Pair with chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with cucumber slices
- Create an appetizer board with olives, nuts, and fresh fruit to complement the rollups
- Drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving
Looking for a complete meal idea? These zucchini rollups pair perfectly with my Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls for a nutritious dinner option!
FAQs about Zucchini Rollups
Can I make zucchini rollups in advance?
Yes! Grill the zucchini up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. Assemble up to 4 hours before serving for best results.
How do I prevent soggy zucchini rollups?
The key is properly grilling the zucchini until just tender, patting dry after grilling, and not overfilling. Assemble shortly before serving when possible.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Arrange zucchini strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until tender but still flexible.
Are zucchini rollups keto-friendly?
Yes! With their low carb content and cheese-based filling, these make an excellent keto appetizer option.
Grilled Zucchini Rollups: Your New Signature Appetizer
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, sophisticated dinner party, or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, these Grilled Zucchini Rollups deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Their versatility means you can adapt them to whatever ingredients you have on hand, and their elegant presentation always impresses.
Join the thousands of home cooks who’ve made these rollups their go-to summer appetizer! The combination of smoky grilled zucchini, creamy filling, and bright herbs creates a perfect bite every time. Plus, they’re a clever way to use up that abundant summer zucchini from your garden or farmers’ market.
So fire up the grill, slice those zucchini, and get ready to watch your guests’ eyes light up when they taste these little bundles of summer magic!
Print
Grilled Zucchini Rollups: Zesty Summer Appetizer Magic!
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 12 rollups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Thinly grilled zucchini ribbons rolled up with creamy herbed cheese and a touch of lemon zest — these zesty summer rollups are light, flavorful, and absolutely magical for entertaining.
Ingredients
2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin ribbons
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 oz cream cheese or goat cheese, softened
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
1 garlic clove, minced
Optional: 1 tbsp finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchini slices lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill for 1–2 minutes per side until tender with light char marks. Let cool slightly.
4. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, lemon juice, zest, herbs, garlic, and optional sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Spread a thin layer of filling on each zucchini ribbon and roll up tightly.
6. Arrange rollups seam-side down on a serving platter and chill for 10 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin zucchini ribbons.
Add a slice of prosciutto or smoked salmon inside each roll for a gourmet twist.
Perfect as a make-ahead appetizer or light summer snack.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rollups
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: zucchini rollups, grilled appetizers, summer finger food, herbed cheese rollups