Cowboy butter grilled zucchini combines the rich flavors of a compound butter with the smoky char of grilled vegetables. This dish elevates simple zucchini into a mouthwatering side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or stands alone as a vegetarian option.

Cowboy butter is a zesty blend of butter, herbs, spices, and garlic that adds a kick of flavor to any dish. When slathered on zucchini and grilled, it creates a tangy, buttery coating that caramelizes beautifully. The result is a tender yet crisp vegetable with a complex flavor profile.

This recipe is quick to prepare and cook, making it ideal for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The cowboy butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, ready to use whenever the craving for a flavorful side dish strikes. Grilled zucchini with cowboy butter offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce with a unique twist.

Understanding Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter that combines rich, creamy butter with zesty herbs and spices. This versatile condiment adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, and more.

Origin and Composition

Cowboy butter originated in American cuisine as a way to enhance the flavor of grilled dishes. It typically consists of softened butter mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and a variety of herbs and spices.

Common ingredients include:

• Minced garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh parsley
• Chives or green onions
• Red pepper flakes
• Paprika

The exact composition can vary, but these elements create a balanced blend of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.

Culinary Uses

Cowboy butter serves as a versatile condiment in many dishes. It can be used as:

1. A spread for bread or rolls
2. A topping for grilled meats like steak or chicken
3. A flavoring for roasted or grilled vegetables
4. A dipping sauce for seafood

When melted, cowboy butter becomes a rich sauce that can be drizzled over foods just before serving. Its robust flavors complement a wide range of ingredients, making it a popular choice for barbecues and outdoor cooking.

Variations and Substitutes

Cowboy butter can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Some variations include:

• Spicy cowboy butter: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce
• Herb-heavy version: Increase fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
• Citrus-forward: Use more lemon juice or add orange zest

For those avoiding dairy, plant-based butter can be substituted as the base. Olive oil can also be used to create a similar flavor profile, though the texture will differ.

Homemade cowboy butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing for easy meal preparation and flavor enhancement.

Preparation of Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter that elevates grilled dishes like zucchini. This section covers the ingredients, preparation steps, and storage of this versatile condiment.

Ingredients and Measurements

To make cowboy butter, gather the following:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme)

Adjust measurements to taste, especially for heat and salt levels. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 
   

   Soften the butter at room temperature for 30 minutes.

   
   
2. 
   

   In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

   
   
3. 
   

   Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and kosher salt.

   
   
4. 
   

   Mix in chopped fresh herbs.

   
   
5. 
   

   Use a spatula or electric mixer to blend ingredients until evenly distributed.

   
   
6. 
   

   Shape the butter mixture into a log using plastic wrap or parchment paper.

   
   
7. 
   

   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and butter to firm up.

   
   

Storage and Shelf-life

Properly stored cowboy butter maintains its quality for up to two weeks. Keep it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the butter log for up to 3 months.

To use, slice off desired amount and return remainder to storage. Thaw frozen cowboy butter in the refrigerator overnight before use. Bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before spreading on grilled zucchini or other dishes.

Selecting and Preparing Zucchini

Choosing the right zucchini and preparing it properly are crucial steps for creating delicious grilled zucchini. These steps ensure optimal flavor and texture in the final dish.

Choosing the Best Zucchini

Select firm, smooth-skinned zucchini with vibrant dark green color. Aim for medium-sized zucchini, about 6-8 inches long and 1-2 inches in diameter. These are ideal for grilling as they’re tender but not overly seedy.

Avoid zucchini with soft spots, blemishes, or wrinkled skin. Smaller zucchini tend to be sweeter and have fewer seeds. Larger ones can be tougher and more watery.

For a low-carb diet option, zucchini is an excellent choice. It’s versatile and can be used as a pasta substitute when made into zucchini noodles with a spiralizer.

Prepping Zucchini for Grilling

Wash zucchini thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry with paper towels. Trim off both ends.

For grilling, slice zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks. This thickness allows for nice grill marks while maintaining a crisp-tender texture.

Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning. Season with salt and pepper.

For added flavor, marinate zucchini in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic for 15-30 minutes before grilling. Don’t marinate longer, as the zucchini can become soggy.

Grilling Techniques

Mastering the art of grilling zucchini requires proper setup and technique. The right approach enhances flavor and texture while preventing common pitfalls like overcooking or sticking.

Setting Up the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F. Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them to prevent sticking. For gas grills, turn on all burners during preheating, then adjust for direct and indirect heat zones.

Create a two-zone fire on charcoal grills. This allows for both high-heat searing and gentler cooking. Arrange coals on one side for direct heat and leave the other side empty for indirect heat.

Use long-handled tools to safely manage food on the hot grill. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to manage flare-ups quickly.

Grilling for Optimal Flavor

Slice zucchini into 1/4-inch thick planks or rounds for even cooking. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper or a dry rub before grilling.

Place zucchini slices directly over medium-high heat. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.

For added flavor, baste with cowboy butter mixture during the last minute of grilling. This infuses the zucchini with rich, savory notes.

Avoid moving the zucchini too frequently. Allow each side to develop a nice char before flipping. Use tongs to handle the slices gently, preserving their shape and grill marks.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy butter grilled zucchini offers versatile pairing options. This flavorful side dish complements various meats, benefits from herb garnishes, and pairs well with complementary sides.

Pairing with Meats

Grilled zucchini with cowboy butter enhances the flavors of several meat dishes. A juicy grilled ribeye steak pairs exceptionally well, creating a classic steakhouse-inspired meal. The zucchini’s subtle taste balances the steak’s richness.

For a casual outdoor gathering, serve alongside hamburgers. The butter’s herbs complement beef patties nicely. Chicken dishes also benefit from this pairing. Try it with grilled chicken breast or chicken strips for a lighter option.

Cowboy butter chicken, whether as a main dish or in bite-sized pieces, gains extra flavor when served with this zucchini side. The shared butter-based seasoning creates a cohesive meal.

Herb Garnishing Tips

Fresh herbs elevate the presentation and taste of cowboy butter grilled zucchini. Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the dish just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Finely minced chives add a mild onion taste that complements the butter sauce. For a bolder flavor, consider adding fresh thyme leaves.

Create an herb mix by combining equal parts chopped parsley, chives, and thyme. Sprinkle this mix over the zucchini for a visually appealing and flavorful garnish.

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

Pair cowboy butter grilled zucchini with complementary sides for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the butter sauce.

Grilled corn on the cob makes an excellent companion, especially when brushed with the same cowboy butter. For a starch option, consider roasted baby potatoes or crusty bread to soak up extra butter sauce.

When entertaining, create a vegetable platter featuring the grilled zucchini alongside other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, and mushrooms. This colorful spread works well for both casual backyard barbecues and more formal dinner parties.

Cowboy Butter Variations for Different Dishes

Cowboy butter can be customized to complement various dishes and dietary preferences. Creative adaptations allow for exciting flavor profiles and versatile applications in cooking.

Spicing Up Cowboy Butter

Cayenne and paprika add a smoky heat to cowboy butter. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of each into softened butter for a spicy kick. Garlic powder enhances savory notes – use 1/2 teaspoon per stick of butter.

For a bolder flavor, incorporate 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. This variation pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon) brings an herbal aroma that complements poultry dishes. Experiment with other spices like cumin or smoked paprika to create unique flavor profiles.

Cowboy Butter in Vegetarian Cuisine

Vegetarian dishes benefit from cowboy butter’s rich flavors. Drizzle over grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted cauliflower steaks for a savory boost.

For a vegan option, use plant-based butter as the base. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that enhances veggie-centric meals.

Herb-infused cowboy butter elevates simple vegetable sides. Mix in finely chopped fresh basil, oregano, and parsley for a Mediterranean twist.

Try spreading cowboy butter on corn on the cob or tossing it with roasted root vegetables for a comforting side dish.

Using Cowboy Butter in Sauces

Cowboy butter serves as an excellent base for flavorful sauces. Melt it and whisk in lemon juice and white wine for a quick pan sauce.

For a spicy garlic butter chicken sauce, combine melted cowboy butter with minced garlic and a splash of sriracha. Simmer briefly to meld flavors.

Create a cowboy butter pasta sauce by mixing melted butter with pasta cooking water and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss with al dente noodles for a quick meal.

Use as a finishing sauce for grilled steaks or seafood. Spoon the melted butter over the protein just before serving for added richness and flavor.