Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes are a simple yet elegant vegetable dish, celebrating the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer. Courgettes, known as zucchini in some parts of the world, are sliced thinly and grilled until tender and beautifully charred, then typically finished with a dressing or garnish that enhances their natural sweetness and subtle earthiness.
This recipe encapsulates Mary Berry’s signature style: fresh, unfussy ingredients; minimal preparation; and a final result that’s both rustic and refined. Often served as a side dish or part of a larger mezze-style spread, grilled courgettes make a stunning addition to both casual and formal meals. They’re versatile, healthy, and bursting with flavor-perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a simple weeknight dinner.
Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Mary Berry keeps things classic and straightforward, letting the flavor of the courgettes shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Courgettes (zucchini) – 2 to 3 medium-sized, firm and fresh
- Olive oil – Extra virgin is preferred for its richer taste
- Garlic – 1 clove, finely crushed (optional but adds depth)
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed, about 1 tablespoon
- Fresh herbs – A combination of basil, parsley, or mint (roughly chopped)
- Salt and pepper – To season
- Parmesan shavings or crumbled feta – Optional garnish
- Chili flakes – Optional for a touch of heat
This is a highly adaptable recipe. While the foundation is always grilled courgettes, Mary often encourages personal flair with herbs, cheeses, or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a professional kitchen to whip up this dish, but having the right tools certainly helps make the process smooth:
- Sharp chef’s knife or a mandolin slicer – For evenly slicing the courgettes
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl – To toss the courgettes with oil and seasoning
- Griddle pan or BBQ grill – For achieving those lovely char marks
- Tongs or spatula – For flipping the slices with ease
- Serving plate – Preferably one that shows off the vibrant green hues
Optional, but handy:
- Basting brush – To lightly coat courgette slices with oil
- Microplane or garlic press – If using fresh garlic
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes
Let’s walk through this process step by step, just like Mary would-calm, encouraging, and with plenty of grace.
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Prepare the Courgettes
Start by washing the courgettes thoroughly. Trim off the ends, then slice them lengthwise into thin ribbons-about ¼-inch thick. Too thick and they won’t grill evenly; too thin and they may fall apart.
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Marinate the Courgettes
In a mixing bowl, toss the slices gently with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the crushed garlic if using. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors infuse and slightly softens the courgettes.
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Heat the Grill or Griddle Pan
Place your griddle pan on high heat until it’s smoking hot-this is key for those classic grill lines and that smoky flavor. If you’re using a BBQ, make sure it’s preheated and cleaned.
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Grill the Courgettes
Lay the slices on the hot surface without overcrowding them. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and charred in places. Flip with tongs or a spatula.
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Dress and Garnish
Once grilled, transfer the courgettes to a platter. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice while still warm. Sprinkle with chopped herbs and, if desired, top with Parmesan shavings, crumbled feta, or a pinch of chili flakes.
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Serve
This dish is delicious warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a salad spread.
Tips And Tricks
Let’s level-up your grilled courgettes with some handy pointers:
- Uniform Slicing is Key: Using a mandolin can help you get consistent thickness, which ensures even grilling.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Grilling in batches is better than stacking slices. Overcrowding causes them to steam instead of char.
- Experiment with Flavors: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of dukkah adds an intriguing twist.
- Prep Ahead: These grilled courgettes can be made several hours in advance. Store covered at room temp if eating the same day.
- Leftover Magic: Chop up leftovers and toss into pasta, frittatas, or even sandwiches for added texture and flavor.
Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes are a masterclass in how to elevate a simple vegetable into something utterly delicious. With just a few humble ingredients and some smart techniques, you can create a dish that’s not only healthy and flavorful but also visually stunning. Whether served as a side or savored on its own, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people back for seconds-and maybe thirds.
So next time courgettes are in season, channel your inner Mary Berry. Light up the grill (or heat up that griddle pan), and let these beautiful green ribbons of flavor steal the spotlight at your table. Happy cooking!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes
Mary Berry’s classic grilled courgettes are a celebration of simplicity and elegance-a tender, smoky delight that lets the natural flavor of the vegetable shine through with just a few seasoning elements. But one of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and there are countless ways to tweak, enhance, or reimagine this dish depending on your mood, pantry, or dinner guests.
1. Mediterranean Twist
Infuse the dish with sunny Mediterranean flavors by adding crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil blended with lemon juice and fresh oregano. This version pairs beautifully with grilled lamb or a lemony couscous salad.
2. Herby Garlic Courgettes
Swap out Mary’s usual seasonings and marinate your courgette slices in a mixture of minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley with a splash of white wine vinegar. Let them sit for 20 minutes before grilling. The herbs create a more fragrant, rustic profile-perfect for a Tuscan-inspired table.
3. Spiced Courgettes
For a more exotic flavor journey, coat your courgette ribbons with a mix of ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of chili flakes. Once grilled, finish with a spoonful of Greek yogurt and a sprinkling of dukkah for a smoky, spicy, and nutty bite.
4. Balsamic Glazed Courgettes
Give your courgettes a sweet-savory edge by brushing them with a reduction of balsamic vinegar and honey just before the final minutes of grilling. The sugars caramelize lightly, adding a luxurious depth and a slight tang that’s wonderful with chargrilled meats or a creamy burrata.
5. Cheesy Courgette Gratin-style Grills
Take a comfort food route by sprinkling grated Parmesan or pecorino over the courgettes halfway through grilling. As the cheese melts and crisps up, it creates a lovely crust that adds crunch and umami. For extra indulgence, serve these on a slice of toasted sourdough rubbed with garlic.
These variations keep the spirit of Mary Berry’s dish intact-simple, seasonal, and centered around fresh produce-but invite your personal touch and culinary curiosity to take the reins.
Storing Leftovers
So you’ve made a generous batch of grilled courgettes (because they’re that good), and now you’re wondering what to do with the extras. The good news? Courgettes are forgiving and versatile even after their first showing on the table.
Short-Term Storage (1-3 Days)
Store leftover grilled courgettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tender and flavorful for up to three days. To prevent them from becoming soggy, lay a piece of kitchen paper at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
Reheating Tip: You can enjoy them cold in salads or warm them up gently in a frying pan with a drizzle of olive oil. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it may cause them to lose their lovely texture and become too soft.
Long-Term Storage (Up To 1 Month)
While grilled courgettes don’t freeze brilliantly on their own due to their high water content, you can preserve them as part of a grilled vegetable medley or layered in a pasta bake. Alternatively, consider transforming your leftovers into a spreadable delight:
Courgette Dip: Blend the courgettes with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and a bit of Greek yogurt to make a Middle Eastern-style dip similar to baba ghanoush.
Courgette Pesto: Whizz them up with basil, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan to make a courgette-enhanced pesto that you can freeze in small batches for up to a month.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes?
Grilled courgettes are marvelously adaptable and can slide comfortably into almost any mealtime setting, from a posh garden lunch to a cozy weeknight dinner. Their smoky, mellow flavor and tender bite make them the ultimate sidekick-or even star player-in countless meals.
1. As A Side Dish
- With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside chicken souvlaki, marinated lamb chops, or lemon-garlic pork tenderloin for a Mediterranean feast.
- With Fish: Try pairing them with grilled salmon, sea bass, or a fillet of cod drizzled with lemon butter. The courgettes’ char complements the flaky richness of the fish beautifully.
2. In A Main Dish
- Pasta Pairing: Toss into a pasta primavera or spaghetti aglio e olio for added texture and flavor. Add sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts for extra zing.
- Vegetarian Tart: Layer the courgettes in a puff pastry tart with goat cheese and caramelized onions-gorgeous and satisfying.
- Grain Bowl Glory: Add to a quinoa, farro, or bulgur bowl with roasted chickpeas, pickled onions, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
3. As Part Of A Platter
Create a vibrant mezze or antipasti platter. Combine grilled courgettes with hummus, baba ghanoush, marinated artichokes, cherry tomatoes, and fresh pita. It’s ideal for grazing over good conversation and a glass of chilled rosé.
4. In Sandwiches And Wraps
Slide slices into a panini with mozzarella and pesto, or roll them up in a flatbread with falafel, tzatziki, and rocket. They add a delightful earthy note and juicy texture that elevate any wrap or roll.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s grilled courgettes are proof that the simplest ingredients, treated with care and creativity, can become truly sublime. Whether you’re sticking to her tried-and-true method or experimenting with your own flavorful twists, these grilled vegetables offer a canvas for endless culinary expression. From easy make-ahead lunches to elegant dinners, their charm is universal.
Don’t forget that leftovers are not a problem but an opportunity-reimagined into dips, spreads, or mixed into mains. And when it comes to pairing, you’re spoiled for choice. These courgettes go with everything from grilled meats and fresh cheeses to hearty grains and flaky fish.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Grilled Courgettes Recipe?
Mary Berry’s grilled courgettes recipe requires simple ingredients such as fresh courgettes, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You may also want to include fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor. For the best results, choose medium-sized courgettes for an even grilling experience.
How Do I Prepare The Courgettes For Grilling In Mary Berry’s Recipe?
To prepare the courgettes, start by washing them thoroughly and trimming off the ends. Slice them lengthwise into thin, even strips (about 1/2 cm thick). This ensures they cook evenly and achieve a perfect grilled texture. Optionally, you can lightly score the flesh to create grill marks, which adds to both the aesthetic and flavor.
How Long Should I Grill The Courgettes For In Mary Berry’s Recipe?
Grill the courgettes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and lightly charred. The exact timing may vary depending on the heat of your grill, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. The courgettes should retain some bite while having a lovely smoky flavor from the grilling process.
