Broiled Smashed Zucchini with Garlicky Yogurt

Ingredients

• 2 lb zucchini (preferably 7 to 12 ounces each)
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 4 tsp lemon juice
• 2.25 tsp kosher salt (divided)
• 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp water
• 0.5 tsp garlic (minced)
• 0.25 cup hazelnuts (toasted, skinned, and chopped)
• fresh herbs (chopped fresh dill, basil, parsley, or chives)
• Aleppo pepper (to taste)

Steps

1. 1

   Adjust the oven rack to 5 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler.

2. 2

   Using a meat pounder or rolling pin, firmly but gently smash the zucchini until they are flattened and cracked lengthwise.

3. 3

   Trim and discard the ends of the zucchini, then break each zucchini into 2 to 4 large pieces.

4. 4

   Transfer the zucchini pieces to a large bowl, including any smaller shards created during smashing. Add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 4 teaspoons of lemon juice, tossing until the zucchini is evenly coated.

5. 5

   Arrange the zucchini pieces, skin side down, on an aluminum foil–lined rimmed baking sheet.

6. 6

   Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, ensuring you season the thicker pieces more heavily than the thinner pieces.

7. 7

   Broil until the zucchini are lightly charred in spots, about 9 to 12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through the broiling time.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven and let the zucchini cool until they are warm to the touch, about 15 to 20 minutes.

9. 9

   While the zucchini cools, stir the Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of water, minced garlic, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt together in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

10. 10

    Spread the yogurt mixture onto a serving platter.

11. 11

    Cut the cooled zucchini into bite-size pieces and arrange them on top of the yogurt mixture.

12. 12

    Sprinkle with the chopped hazelnuts, fresh herbs, and Aleppo pepper. Drizzle with additional extra-virgin olive oil and serve.

Notes

If using a gas broiler, adjust the oven rack to 4 inches from the broiler element. Instead of rotating the pan, use tongs to rearrange the zucchini pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even charring.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• vegetarian
• gluten-free
• broiled
• summer
• zucchini
• healthy