Grilled vegetables make a tasty side dish that’s colorful and full of flavor! Just toss your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms with some olive oil and seasonings before grilling.
I love how the grill brings out the natural sweetness in the veggies. Plus, it’s super easy—just skewer and cook! Perfect for a summer BBQ or a healthy dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggplant: This veggie gives a great texture and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t like eggplant, you can swap it for portobello mushrooms, which also grill nicely.
Zucchini: It adds a lovely mild taste. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works wonderfully too!
Bell Pepper: I love the sweetness of red or yellow peppers, but green peppers are a great alternative if you prefer something more tangy.
Olive Oil: It’s fantastic for grilling due to its flavor and smoke point. For a different taste, try avocado oil, which is also great for high heat.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley are my favorites. For a twist, you might consider thyme or rosemary for their bold flavors.
How Do I Grill Vegetables Without Them Sticking?
Getting veggies to grill without sticking is key! Here are some steps to ensure success:
- Make sure your grill is clean. Any leftover residue can cause sticking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before putting the veggies on it. A hot grill helps sear and prevents sticking.
- Brush both the grill grates and the vegetables with a little olive oil before grilling. This adds flavor and reduces sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill, as that can lead to steaming instead of grilling. Give each vegetable space to cook properly.
Using these tips, your grilled vegetables should come out perfectly charred and delicious every time!
Delicious Grilled Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into quarters
- 1 red onion, sliced into thick rings
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
For The Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes for marinating the vegetables. You can expect to spend an additional 15-20 minutes grilling, depending on your grill’s heat. So, in total, you’re looking at around 60 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you want a tangy flavor), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and set it aside for now.
2. Marinate the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss in all the sliced vegetables: eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and asparagus. Drizzle the marinade over your veggies and use your hands or a spoon to gently toss everything until the vegetables are nicely coated. Let them sit for at least 15-30 minutes to soak up all that flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your vegetables are marinating, it’s time to preheat the grill. Set it to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F to 450°F. This will ensure that your veggies get a nice char without burning.
4. Grill the Vegetables:
Now for the fun part! Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Here’s how long to grill each one:
- Eggplant: Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side until soft and charred.
- Zucchini: Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until tender and marked.
- Bell Pepper: Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until soft and charred.
- Red Onion: Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until slightly caramelized.
- Asparagus: Grill for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and bright green.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove the vegetables from the grill and arrange them on a lovely serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an added burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your colorful, healthy grilled vegetables!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for Grilling?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any of your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, corn on the cob, or cherry tomatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type and size of the vegetables you choose.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Vegetables?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or toss them on a skillet for a few minutes to warm them up while keeping their flavor intact!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using, as the ingredients may settle. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
How Can I Make the Grilled Vegetables Extra Flavorful?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or a sprinkle of your favorite spice blend to the marinade. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist!
