Mediterranean Honey Garlic Soy Roasted Zucchini
This Mediterranean Honey Garlic Soy Roasted Zucchini is a flavorful side dish that balances sweet, savory, and umami-rich flavors with fresh Mediterranean flair. The zucchini is roasted until tender and caramelized in a marinade of honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon, then finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and optional feta cheese.
It’s quick, healthy, and pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or grain bowls.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
3 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½-inch thick half-moons
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of ½ lemon
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Extra lemon wedges for serving
A drizzle of extra honey (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Toss the Zucchini:
Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the marinade.
Roast the Zucchini:
Spread the zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden, tender, and caramelized.
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the roasted zucchini to a serving platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh herbs, and drizzle with a bit more honey if desired.
Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or lamb.
Serve over couscous, quinoa, or orzo for a light meal.
Use as a topping for Mediterranean grain bowls or wraps.
Tips & Variations
Tips for Success:
Cut Evenly:
Slice zucchini into uniform half-moons (about ½ inch thick) so they cook evenly and caramelize properly.
Use High Heat:
Roasting at 425°F (220°C) helps the honey caramelize and gives the zucchini a beautiful golden edge without becoming soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Spread the zucchini out in a single layer with space between the pieces to ensure even roasting and prevent steaming.
Watch for Burning:
Since honey caramelizes quickly, keep an eye on the zucchini during the last 5 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Serve Immediately:
Roasted zucchini is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the texture is crisp-tender and the flavors are vibrant.
Flavor Variations:
Make It Spicy:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper to the marinade for a sweet-spicy kick.
Swap Soy Sauce:
Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option or to reduce sodium.
Try Balsamic:
Replace the lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a richer, tangier glaze.
Add Nuts or Seeds:
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
Herb Swap:
Use basil, oregano, or dill instead of parsley or mint for different Mediterranean profiles.
Cheese Alternatives:
Use goat cheese crumbles, ricotta salata, or shaved Parmesan if you prefer something other than feta.
Make It a Meal:
Toss the roasted zucchini with cooked orzo, chickpeas, or quinoa for a quick Mediterranean grain bowl.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?
A: Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Watch closely to prevent the honey from burning.
Q: Can I substitute zucchini with other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! This marinade works well with:
Yellow squash
Eggplant slices
Bell peppers
Green beans
Adjust roasting time depending on the vegetable.
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: To make it vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and omit the feta or use plant-based feta.
Q: How do I prevent soggy zucchini?
A: Use high heat (425°F), avoid overcrowding, and pat zucchini dry before tossing with the marinade.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: The zucchini is best fresh, but you can prep the marinade and slice the zucchini in advance. Roast just before serving for best texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup cooked zucchini)
(Based on 4 servings)
Calories: 130
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 320mg
Cholesterol: 5mg
Conclusion:
The Mediterranean Honey Garlic Soy Roasted Zucchini is a simple, flavorful side dish that blends sweet, savory, and herbaceous elements with a Mediterranean twist. The quick marinade creates a glossy, caramelized finish, while fresh herbs and feta add brightness and creaminess.
Perfect for busy weeknights, entertaining, or healthy meal prep, this recipe makes zucchini exciting and crave-worthy!