Easy Grilled Vegetables are a simple yet flavorful side dish featuring a colorful array of fresh veggies lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection. This recipe captures the natural sweetness and smokiness that grilling brings out in vegetables, making them an ideal accompaniment for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even as a main for a light, vegetarian meal.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these grilled vegetables are quick, healthy, and adaptable for whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Key Ingredients & Their Role
- Vegetables (Zucchini, Bell Peppers, Asparagus, Mushrooms): Choose a mix of colorful veggies for flavor and visual appeal.
- Olive Oil: Coats the vegetables, helping them grill evenly and adding richness.
- Garlic and Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme): Enhances the flavor, adding aromatic and earthy notes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Grilled Vegetables
1. Prep the Vegetables – For Even Cooking
- Slice 1 zucchini, 1 yellow squash, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 red onion into uniform pieces. Trim 1 bunch of asparagus and remove stems from 1 cup of mushrooms.
2. Season the Vegetables – Adding Flavor
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetables. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme). Toss to coat evenly.
3. Preheat the Grill – Preparing for a Quick Cook
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Use a grill basket if desired for easy handling.
4. Grill the Vegetables – Achieving the Perfect Char
- Place vegetables on the grill or in the grill basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve Warm
- Transfer grilled vegetables to a platter, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Easy Grilled Vegetables are versatile and pair well with grilled meats, Quinoa Salad, or as a topping for Grilled Flatbread. They’re also delicious with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Vegetables
- Use a Grill Basket: For easy handling, especially with smaller vegetables like mushrooms.
- Keep Vegetables Uniform: Slice vegetables into even pieces for even cooking.
- Add Fresh Herbs After Grilling: For a brighter flavor, add fresh herbs right before serving.
EASY GRILLED VEGETABLES
These Easy Grilled Vegetables are a flavorful and colorful side dish that’s perfect for summer grilling. With a variety of fresh veggies seasoned simply, they’re quick to make and pair well with any main course.
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 1 yellow squash sliced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 red onion sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus trimmed
- 1 cup mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary and thyme optional
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables: Slice zucchini, squash, bell pepper, and onion. Trim asparagus and prepare mushrooms.
- Season: In a bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (about 400°F).
- Grill Vegetables: Place veggies on the grill or in a grill basket, cook 8-10 minutes, turning until charred.
- Serve: Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.
Notes
For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.