These grilled zucchini roll ups are one of the easiest and most impressive appetizers you can make. Thin slices of zucchini are kissed on the grill until tender, then rolled around a creamy filling of herbed goat cheese and finely chopped kalamata olives.
The result is a light, fresh, elegant bite that looks like it came from a Mediterranean restaurant — but takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, contributing to a potluck, or looking for a healthy low-carb snack, these stuffed zucchini rolls deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
The secret is starting with quality ingredients. A drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil on the zucchini before grilling adds richness, and real olives bring a briny depth that ties the whole bite together.
Click here to buy your raw, fermented Greek Koutsourelia Olives for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 very large or 3 small zucchini
- Healthy Harvest Greek olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 1/2 oz. herbed goat cheese (We love local Haystack!)
- 1 1/2 oz. (about 7 or 8) kalamata olives, finely chopped
How to Make Zucchini Roll Ups
- Preheat grill to high heat or saute pan to medium-high.
- Slice a strip lengthwise from the zucchini to expose the inside of the vegetable. Discard or reserve for another use. Cut the 2 ends from the zucchini to make straight edges. Cut the zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch strips.
- Brush both sides of the zucchini pieces liberally with Healthy Harvest Greek olive oil. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Lay the zucchini pieces on the grill at a 45-degree angle (for more attractive grill marks). Cook until the zucchini is very tender, but not mushy, about 3 minutes per side.
- Remove zucchini from the grill and drape over cooling rack.
- Place goat cheese in a medium bowl. Stir olives into the goat cheese.
- Spread a layer of the goat cheese mixture onto one side of each zucchini piece. Gently roll each piece of zucchini. Serve.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Roll Ups
- Choose the right zucchini. Pick zucchini that are straight and at least 8 inches long. Larger zucchini yield wider strips that are easier to roll without cracking.
- Slice evenly. A mandoline set to 1/4-inch produces the most consistent strips. If slicing by hand, aim for even thickness so every strip cooks at the same rate.
- Don't skip the grill. Grilling makes zucchini pliable enough to roll and adds smoky flavor that sauteing cannot replicate. If you do not have a grill, a grill pan over high heat works just as well.
- Let the strips cool. Trying to roll hot zucchini will cause the goat cheese to melt and slide out. Five minutes of cooling on a rack is all it takes.
- Pat dry if needed. Zucchini can release water as it sits. Blot the cooled strips with a paper towel before spreading the filling so the cheese adheres properly.
- Spread a thin layer. About 1 tablespoon of filling per strip is the sweet spot. Too much and the rolls will not stay closed; too little and you lose the flavor payoff.
Variations
One of the best things about zucchini roll ups is how adaptable the filling is. Here are several ways to change up the recipe:
- Ricotta and spinach. Swap the goat cheese for a blend of ricotta, a handful of wilted spinach, and a pinch of nutmeg. This combination is a classic for a reason and works beautifully as zucchini ricotta rolls.
- Cream cheese and herbs. Beat softened cream cheese with fresh dill, chives, and a squeeze of lemon juice for zucchini roll ups with cream cheese that are tangy and light.
- Meat filling. Brown Italian sausage with garlic and red pepper flakes, mix with a spoonful of ricotta, and roll for heartier zucchini roll ups with meat that work as a main course.
- Mediterranean style. Use the goat cheese base and add sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and a drizzle of Healthy Harvest olive oil for an extra layer of richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cheese for zucchini roll ups?
Herbed goat cheese is our top choice because it is creamy, tangy, and easy to spread. Ricotta mixed with parmesan is the most popular alternative and works especially well if you plan to bake the rolls with marinara sauce. Cream cheese is another option for a milder flavor.
Can I make zucchini roll ups without a grill?
Yes. You can use a grill pan on the stovetop over high heat, roast the strips in the oven at 425 degrees F for about 8 minutes per side, or even use a panini press. The goal is to soften the zucchini enough to roll without it breaking.
How do I keep zucchini roll ups from falling apart?
The two keys are letting the grilled zucchini cool completely before rolling and not overfilling. About 1 tablespoon of filling per strip gives you a secure roll. You can also secure each roll with a toothpick if serving at a party.