Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter Recipe

If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with bright flavors, you’re going to love this recipe for Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter. These delicate ribbons of tender zucchini and summer squash are infused with a zesty and slightly spicy lemon garlic butter, transforming simple vegetables into a sensational grilled treat that’s perfect for any gathering or a delightful weeknight side. The combination of smoky grill marks, fresh herbs, and that buttery kick makes each bite irresistibly delicious and full of character.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter comes from a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From tender squash to aromatic herbs and vibrant citrus, these components blend beautifully for a dish bursting with color, flavor, and texture.

• 2 medium zucchini squash: These form the main ribbons that become tender and smoky when grilled.
• 2 medium summer squash: Adds subtle sweetness and a lovely contrasting color.
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs: Parsley and basil brighten up the dish and add an herby freshness.
• 6 ounces unsalted butter: Creates the rich, luscious base for the lemon garlic butter coating.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a punch of bold, savory flavor that complements the squash.
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest: Infuses the butter with lively citrus notes essential to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle heat that elevates the flavor complexity.
• Pinch of salt and pepper: Balances all the tastes perfectly.

How to Make Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Squash Ribbons

Start by standing each zucchini and summer squash on its base and use a vegetable peeler or mandolin to create thin, beautiful ribbons. These delicate slices don’t need to be perfect; their rustic charm is part of the appeal. Avoid slicing too thick, or the ribbons might be hard to skewer and grill evenly.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Lemon Garlic Butter

While your ribbons wait patiently, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it gently bubble for a minute or two to marry all the flavors, then remove it from heat. This butter is where the magic begins, bringing richness and a zing to your skewers.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Place your zucchini and summer squash ribbons on a baking sheet or cutting board. Brush one side of each ribbon generously with the spicy lemon butter. Then, fold the ribbons back and forth like a fan and skewer them through the center, fitting about 8 to 10 ribbons per skewer. The key is to keep them closely packed to hold their shape.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil the surface. Place each skewer on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then rotate gently and repeat twice more to get even grill marks and tender ribbons. Brush additional lemon butter over the skewers throughout grilling to keep them juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once grilled to golden perfection, remove the skewers and brush them one last time with the spicy lemon butter. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley and basil on top for an extra pop of flavor and color. You can serve the ribbons straight off the skewer or slide them onto plates for a more elegant presentation.

How to Serve Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even chives take these skewers from delicious to dazzling. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can enhance all the flavors, while a tiny dusting of extra crushed red pepper adds a spicy surprise for those who love heat.

Side Dishes

These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making a bright accompaniment to any summer meal. For a vegetarian twist, serve alongside herbed quinoa, lemony couscous, or a fresh tomato salad to keep things light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive party platter, arrange the skewers on a bed of mixed greens or edible flowers. Alternatively, you can slide off the ribbons and toss them into a Mediterranean-style salad with olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with extra lemon butter for a full-on flavor explosion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover zucchini ribbon skewers with spicy lemon butter, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, but for the best texture, enjoy them soon after grilling.

Freezing

Because the ribbons are delicate and buttery, freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture and flavor. It’s best to prepare just what you need and enjoy fresh.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, gently warm the skewers in a grill pan over medium heat for a few minutes, brushing with additional lemon butter to restore moisture and flavor. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture alive and vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables for these skewers?

Absolutely! Thin ribbons of carrots, zucchini, yellow squash, or even eggplant work wonderfully. Just adjust grilling times since some veggies may cook faster than others.

Is there a substitute for the butter in the spicy lemon butter?

You can use olive oil for a dairy-free version, mixing it with garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. The richness will differ, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

How thin should the zucchini ribbons be sliced?

A thickness of about 1/8 inch is ideal. Too thick, and they’ll be hard to fold and skewer; too thin, and they may break during grilling.

Can I prepare the lemon garlic butter in advance?

Yes, you can make the lemon garlic butter a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before brushing onto the zucchini ribbons.

What grill temperature is best for these skewers?

Medium-high heat works best to get lovely grill marks and a nice tender texture without overcooking or burning the ribbons.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing Zucchini Ribbon Skewers with Spicy Lemon Butter. This recipe is proof that simple ingredients, treated with a bit of love and care, can come together to create an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself, these skewers bring brightness, texture, and that perfect zesty kick to your table. Give them a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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