Courgettes halved lengthways and charred over direct heat until tender and smoky, finished with crumbled feta, fresh mint, and a squeeze of lemon.
smokeandsoil.com/recipes/charred-courgettes-with-mint-and-feta
by L Field
Prep
10 min
Cook
12 min
Total
22 min
Serves
4
Level
Hard
Method
BBQ
Ingredients
High heat transforms courgettes completely. The char isn’t cosmetic — it’s structural, adding a layer of bitterness that balances the natural sweetness beneath the skin. This interplay of flavours is what makes charred courgettes such a compelling side or light main when cooking over fire. The quick, direct grilling softens the flesh while the smoky char adds complexity, making the courgette far more than just a simple vegetable.
Pairing the courgettes with fresh mint and quality feta brings the dish into focus. The brightness and coolness of the mint cut through the smoky richness, while the salty creaminess of the feta adds depth and a satisfying contrast. A squeeze of lemon juice and a touch of zest brighten everything further, lifting the dish and tying all the elements together.
This recipe is a straightforward example of how everyday BBQ can highlight seasonal, homegrown ingredients without fuss. Using clean-burning charcoal and direct heat grilling techniques ensures that the courgettes retain their integrity without being overwhelmed by smoke. It’s a recipe for those who appreciate subtlety and balance, and who see the BBQ as a tool to enhance, rather than mask, the natural qualities of good food.
Ingredients
preferably British-grown and firm
plus extra for dressing
crumbled (e.g., Dodoni or similar)
leaves picked and roughly chopped
Health Notes
This is a vegetable-led dish and a naturally lower-calorie option. Grilling with minimal oil preserves the vegetables' nutritional value while adding flavour through caramelisation and char. High in fibre and micronutrients.
Notes
Seasonal Variations
Nutrition (per serving, estimate)
260
kcal
6g
protein
15g
carbs
18g
fat
Values are estimates and vary with portion size and preparation.
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Prepare the Courgettes and Fire
Slice the courgettes lengthwise into approximately 1cm thick planks. Do not slice them too thinly, as they will cook too quickly and lose structure. In a large bowl, toss the courgette planks with 2 tbsp of olive oil, the sea salt, and black pepper. Light a full chimney of Weber briquettes. Once the briquettes are fully ashed over, pour them onto one side of the charcoal grate to create a high-heat direct zone. Place the cooking grate on the barbecue.
Char the Courgettes
Allow the cooking grate to preheat for 5 minutes over the direct heat zone. Using long-handled tongs, place the courgette planks directly over the lit briquettes. Close the lid and allow to cook for 4-5 minutes. The lid should remain closed to trap heat and smoke, which aids in the charring process.
Turn and Finish
Open the lid and turn the courgette planks. They should have developed deep brown to black char marks. If the char is insufficient, continue cooking for another minute before turning. Once turned, close the lid and cook for a further 4-5 minutes. The courgettes are ready when they are tender but still hold their shape, with a clear char on both sides.
Dress and Serve
Remove the courgettes from the barbecue and place them on a serving platter. While still warm, scatter the crumbled feta and chopped mint over the top. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, the fresh lemon juice, and the lemon zest. Serve immediately as a side dish.
Dress and Serve
Remove the courgettes from the barbecue and place them on a serving platter. While still warm, scatter the crumbled feta and chopped mint over the top. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, the fresh lemon juice, and the lemon zest. Serve immediately as a side dish.
Health Notes
This is a vegetable-led dish and a naturally lower-calorie option. Grilling with minimal oil preserves the vegetables' nutritional value while adding flavour through caramelisation and char. High in fibre and micronutrients.
Per serving (estimate)
260
kcal
6g
protein
15g
carbs
18g
fat
A grill basket is an essential accessory for anyone serious about clean, whole-food cooking over fire. It allows you to cook smaller, delicate items like vegetables and fish fillets without losing them through the grates. This means less waste and more control over your cooking, which fits perfectly with the Smoke & Soil ethos of everyday BBQ using homegrown and seasonal ingredients. The basket keeps your food contained while still exposing it to direct heat and smoke, encouraging a lovely char and smoky flavour without the risk of flare-ups or sticking. Using a grill basket is straightforward but requires a bit of care to get the best results. Always oil the basket before placing food inside to prevent sticking, and avoid overcrowding to ensure proper charring rather than steaming. The design encourages even cooking and makes it easy to turn your food gently, preserving its shape and texture. It is ideal for weeknight cooking when you want a quick, no-fuss way to grill vegetables or fish without the mess or hassle of fiddly flipping. Incorporating a grill basket into your BBQ routine also promotes versatility. You can experiment with different vegetables, marinate fish fillets, or even try delicate items like tofu or halloumi. It’s a simple tool that enhances your ability to cook clean, seasonal food over fire, keeping the process efficient and enjoyable. This accessory aligns with our no-nonsense, confident approach to BBQ and fire cooking, making it a must-have for home cooks who value flavour and practicality.
Written by
L Field
