Summer BBQ Essentials: Courgette Grilled Ribs with Spicy Pepperoni Sauce

As summer unfolds, the scent of barbecues wafts through the air, beckoning friends and families to gather and celebrate the warm weather. If you’re looking to elevate your grilling game this season, look no further than these irresistible Courgette Grilled Ribs with Spicy Pepperoni Sauce. This unique dish combines the smoky flavors of grilled courgettes with a zesty sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Ribs:

4 medium courgettes (zucchini)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

For the Spicy Pepperoni Sauce:

1 cup pepperoni slices
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Courgettes

Start by washing the courgettes thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise, creating rib-like shapes that will hold the sauce beautifully.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the cut sides of the courgettes.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Pepperoni Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Toss in the pepperoni slices and cook until they begin to crisp up, releasing their oils.
Add crushed tomatoes, honey, chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Step 3: Grill the Courgettes

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the courgettes cut side down on the grill.
Grill for about 5-7 minutes until they have nice grill marks and are tender but not mushy. Flip them over carefully and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once the courgettes are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill.
Spoon the spicy pepperoni sauce generously over the grilled courgette ribs.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot, inviting everyone to dig in!

Cooking Tips

Choosing Courgettes: Opt for firm courgettes with glossy skin. Smaller courgettes tend to be sweeter and less watery.
Sauce Adjustments: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Alternatively, for an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your courgette ribs with a side of grilled corn on the cob or a fresh summer salad for a complete meal.

Variations

Vegan Option: Substitute pepperoni with tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil, and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sauce.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro to the sauce for an aromatic twist.

Mouthwatering Description

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled courgette ribs, bursting with flavor from the smoky seasoning, balanced by the tangy and spicy pepperoni sauce. The combination of textures—from the tender courgette to the zesty sauce—creates a dish that is truly unforgettable.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant colors of the grilled ribs drizzled with spicy sauce against the backdrop of a summer sunset. Use natural lighting and consider close-up shots to highlight the texture of the courgette and the glistening sauce.

This Summer BBQ Essential combines creativity with comfort, making it a must-try for your next outdoor gathering. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations with family and friends! For more delightful recipes and cooking tips, explore this article on grilling techniques or discover new flavor combinations in our summer recipes collection.

Expand Your Culinary Skills

Experimenting with seasonal ingredients and bold flavors is the essence of summer cooking. For an even deeper dive into the world of grilling and flavor profiles, consider investing in a reliable grill thermometer or a set of quality grilling tools.

Now that you have this delicious Courgette Grilled Ribs with Spicy Pepperoni Sauce recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to fire up the grill and impress your guests. Happy grilling!