Zucchini alla Scapece: The Ultimate Grilled Italian Zucchini with Fresh Mint and Tangy Vinegar Dressing
Embrace the flavors of the Italian coast with Zucchini alla Scapece, a traditional Neapolitan dish that brings sunshine to your plate! This exquisite Italian vegetable dish features perfectly grilled zucchini bathed in a bright, refreshing mint and vinegar dressing, making it an ideal choice for grilling on any warm summer day. You’ll love the crispy texture of the zucchini combined with the unique, zesty taste that sets this classic apart.
Craving more incredible Italian vegetable dishes? You absolutely must try our BEST Garlic Parmesan Green Beans or the refreshing Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad with Pancetta!
When summer rolls around, zucchini truly becomes a superstar in my kitchen. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it a go-to ingredient for countless delicious meals. Beyond this fantastic Zucchini alla Scapece, I frequently whip up other favorites like light and crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters, a comforting bowl of Italian Summer Pasta with Zucchini, or the creamy indulgence of Zucchini Risotto! The mild flavor of zucchini makes it an excellent canvas for various culinary creations, perfectly absorbing the flavors of accompanying ingredients and marinades.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Zucchini with Mint and Vinegar (Zucchini alla Scapece)
Zucchini alla Scapece isn’t just another side dish; it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of summer with minimal effort. Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite way to enjoy zucchini:
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Plus, it’s a breeze to scale up for larger gatherings, making it perfect for entertaining.
- You can efficiently cook a substantial amount of zucchini on the grill all at once. Unlike traditional frying methods, which often demand batch cooking, grilling allows you to prepare more vegetables simultaneously, saving you precious time and effort.
- The flavor profile is genuinely delicious and unique. The combination of charred zucchini with the refreshing mint and tangy vinegar creates a taste that your guests or family might not have experienced before, offering a delightful surprise.
- This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with any simple protein, enhancing a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving up savory Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs, flaky Lemon Garlic Broiled Flounder, or a hearty Gorgonzola Grilled Chicken Burger, Zucchini alla Scapece complements them beautifully with its vibrant taste.
Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for Zucchini alla Scapece
Crafting the perfect Zucchini alla Scapece relies on fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and some helpful notes for substitutions:
- Zucchini: While this dish is traditionally made with fresh green zucchini, which offers a mild taste and firm texture, don’t hesitate to experiment! I’ve achieved equally fantastic results by substituting yellow squash. Look for firm, unblemished zucchini, as soft spots can indicate a loss of freshness and lead to a mushy result.
- Fresh Mint: Mint is truly the star of the flavor show in Zucchini alla Scapece. Its bright, peppery coolness is irreplaceable for the authentic taste. However, if you’re looking for a different aromatic profile, you could potentially substitute fresh basil for a delicious, albeit distinct, dish. Always opt for fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- High-Quality Olive Oil: The olive oil you choose can significantly impact the overall flavor of this dish. Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will lend a rich, fruity depth that elevates the entire recipe. Since it’s used generously in the dressing, invest in a good one!
- Vinegar: I typically use red wine vinegar for its balanced acidity and subtle fruity notes, which are traditional in many Italian dressings. However, you can easily substitute white wine vinegar for a crisper, sharper tang, or apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter, fruitier undertone.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds another layer of bright acidity and a wonderful citrus aroma that complements the mint and vinegar beautifully. Always use fresh lemon juice for the best results; bottled juice often lacks the vibrant flavor.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dressing with a pungent, aromatic kick. Adjust the amount to your taste – a little extra never hurt!
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the zucchini before grilling and balancing the flavors in the dressing. Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are always recommended for superior taste.
*Please refer to the detailed recipe card below for exact measurements and further information on each ingredient.
How to Make Authentic Zucchini alla Scapece: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious Neapolitan classic is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled zucchini and a vibrant mint-infused dressing.
Step 1: Prepare the Mint and Vinegar Dressing. In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup of high-quality olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced fresh mint, and finely minced garlic. Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until they are well emulsified and thoroughly combined. This vibrant dressing is what gives Zucchini alla Scapece its signature tangy and refreshing flavor.
Step 2: Slice the Zucchini Evenly. Carefully slice your zucchini into uniform ½ inch thick pieces. Achieving consistent thickness is crucial for this recipe. If your slices are too thin, they’ll become overly soft and mushy during grilling. If they’re too thick, they won’t cook through properly and may remain tough. Even slices ensure every piece cooks to that perfect tender-crisp texture.
Step 3: Season the Zucchini for Grilling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with a generous seasoning of salt and black pepper, along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring each piece of zucchini is lightly coated in the olive oil and seasonings. This step not only adds flavor but also helps prevent sticking to the grill grates and promotes even browning.
Step 4: Grill the Zucchini to Perfection. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully arrange the zucchini slices flat on the grates, ensuring good contact for those desirable char marks. Grill each side for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until the zucchini turns a beautiful golden brown and you start to see small bubbles on the surface. Flip them gently and cook for another 5 minutes to achieve tenderness and a slight crispness. Remove the grilled zucchini from the heat and transfer to a clean bowl.
Step 5: Combine with Dressing and Serve. Immediately transfer the warm, grilled zucchini to the bowl containing the prepared mint dressing. Toss gently until every piece of zucchini is thoroughly coated. The warmth of the zucchini helps it absorb the flavors of the dressing beautifully. Serve your Zucchini alla Scapece immediately, garnished with a scattering of fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness!
Pro-Tips for Perfect Zucchini alla Scapece
Achieving restaurant-quality Zucchini alla Scapece is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Consistent Zucchini Slicing is Key: The most crucial element for the ideal texture in this dish is evenly slicing your zucchini into ½-inch pieces. This precise thickness allows the zucchini to cook through without becoming soggy or undercooked. It ensures each slice develops a lovely char and crispness on the exterior while remaining tender, but not mushy, on the inside. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool for achieving perfect uniformity if you have one, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well!
- Mastering Your Grill for Even Cooking: Every grill has its unique hot spots and nuances. You know your grill best, so use the suggested 4-5 minutes per side as a guideline rather than a strict rule. Focus on visual cues: grill the zucchini until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly bubbling texture. Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can lower the temperature and steam the zucchini instead of charring it. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure optimal heat distribution and perfect results every time.
- Don’t Skimp on Fresh Mint: While substitutes like basil can work, fresh mint is indispensable for the authentic, refreshing taste of Zucchini alla Scapece. Use a generous amount of freshly minced mint for maximum flavor impact.
- Dress While Warm: Tossing the grilled zucchini with the mint and vinegar dressing while it’s still warm is important. The heat helps the zucchini absorb the dressing’s flavors more effectively, creating a more deeply infused and delicious result.
- Quality Olive Oil Matters: Since olive oil is a primary flavor component, especially in the dressing, using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil can significantly elevate the dish. Its fruity notes will shine through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini alla Scapece
The key to avoiding mushy zucchini lies in efficient moisture removal and proper cooking technique. Grilling is an excellent method because the direct heat quickly evaporates water without the zucchini sitting in its own liquid. This allows for a beautiful crisp edge and tender interior. Ensuring your zucchini slices are of even thickness (about ½ inch) and cooking on a preheated, not overcrowded, grill also prevents steaming and promotes that desirable firm texture.
The term “Scapece” originates from the Spanish word “escabeche,” which translates to “pickled” in English. In Italian cuisine, particularly in Southern Italy, it refers to dishes that are lightly fried or grilled and then marinated in a vinegar-based dressing. Essentially, Zucchini alla Scapece is a type of “quick pickled” zucchini, where the hot grilled vegetables absorb the tangy, aromatic marinade immediately, infusing them with flavor without a long brining process.
Absolutely! Frying is a traditional method for making Zucchini alla Scapece, and it yields a slightly different but equally delicious texture. If you choose to fry, I highly recommend salting the zucchini slices first and letting them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before frying them in olive oil until golden brown and tender. You could also air fry them for a healthier, less oily option – just ensure they are lightly coated in oil and cooked until tender-crisp.
Yes, Zucchini alla Scapece is excellent when made ahead! In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen even further after a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. The zucchini will continue to absorb the dressing, becoming even more flavorful. It’s a fantastic dish for meal prep or for preparing in advance for parties. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Store any leftover Zucchini alla Scapece in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, keeping it fresh and flavorful. It’s delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it a convenient and refreshing addition to various meals.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Zucchini alla Scapece
This versatile Italian grilled zucchini dish is incredibly adaptable and can complement a wide array of meals. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy Zucchini alla Scapece:
- This dish is a perfect companion to some of our other Italian grilled favorites, adding a light and fresh contrast. Serve it alongside savory Chicken Spiedini, tender Grilled Stuffed Pork Chops, or the robust flavor of Italian Ring Sausage (Chevalatta)!
- It’s also an excellent addition to a spread of hot and delicious side dishes, enhancing your meal with its tangy zest. Pair it with comforting Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes, a rich plate of Pasta Alla Gricia, or a bright and lemony Lemon Spinach Orzo.
- One of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy Zucchini alla Scapece is served simply on toasted crusty bread, drizzled with a little extra olive oil for a delightful bruschetta-like appetizer. Alternatively, spoon it generously over creamy Grilled Polenta for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian main or side.
- Consider it as part of an antipasto platter alongside olives, cheeses, and cured meats for an authentic Italian starter.
- For a light lunch, toss it with some cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes for a quick and refreshing pasta salad.
Explore More Delicious Italian Vegetable Sides
If you loved the fresh and vibrant flavors of Zucchini alla Scapece, you’ll surely enjoy these other fantastic Italian vegetable side dishes, perfect for complementing any meal.
- Kale and Cannellini Bean Salad
- Sautéed Rapini with Garlic
- Italian Green Bean Salad
- Italian Lacinato Kale Recipe (Tuscan)
Please leave a comment and star rating below in the recipe card! I love to hear what you think of our recipes and how they turn out for you. Feel free to tag us on Instagram @vindelgiudice and share your creations!
📖 Recipe
Zucchini alla Scapece
Vincent DelGiudice
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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1 grill
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1 large bowl
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1 Small bowl
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil (for grilling)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Mint and Vinegar Dressing
- ¼ cup high-quality olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 handful fresh mint, finely minced (about ¼ cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, slice the zucchini into uniform ½-inch thick pieces. Aim for consistency to ensure even cooking.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss well until all the zucchini pieces are lightly coated.
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Carefully place the seasoned zucchini slices flat on the preheated grill grates. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the zucchini turns golden brown and starts to bubble. Flip once and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove from the grill and transfer to a clean large bowl.
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While the zucchini is grilling, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced mint, and minced garlic until thoroughly combined.
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Pour the mint and vinegar dressing over the warm, grilled zucchini. Toss gently until every piece is completely covered. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh mint leaves if desired, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Zucchini alla Scapece!
Notes
- Evenly slicing the zucchini into ½-inch pieces is the absolute key to achieving the perfect texture for this dish. This specific thickness allows the zucchini to become beautifully crisp on the outside while remaining tender, but not mushy, on the inside.
- Remember that every grill has its own hot spots and unique characteristics. While the 4-5 minutes per side is a general suggestion, trust your judgment and grill until the zucchini develops a lovely golden-brown color and a slightly bubbling, tender-crisp texture. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure proper charring rather than steaming.
- For an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation, a final sprinkle of fresh mint leaves just before serving truly elevates this dish.
Nutrition
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