Grilling vegetables might sound simple, but adding a balsamic glaze brings a whole new level of flavor. I love how this dish takes everyday produce and transforms it into something special, with a tangy-sweet marinade that caramelizes perfectly on the grill. It’s healthy, colorful, and versatile for any meal, but the best part is how easy it is to make. Want to know the secret to getting those veggies just right? Let’s get started.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This balsamic glazed grilled vegetables recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish. You’ll love it because of its simplicity, vibrant taste, and versatility.
- Easy Preparation: Requires minimal prep and grilling time for a hassle-free meal.
- Rich Flavor: The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy depth that enhances the natural taste of the vegetables.
- Customizable: Swap or add your favorite vegetables to suit your preferences or seasonal availability.
Recipe
Grilling vegetables with a balsamic glaze adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances their natural sweetness, making this dish a perfect side or main course for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the vegetables in the balsamic mixture until evenly coated.
- Place the vegetables on the grill in a single layer, reserving the balsamic mixture.
- Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
- Brush the vegetables with the reserved balsamic glaze during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Notes:
For added depth, marinate the vegetables in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serving:
Serves 4
Calories:
Approx. 120 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Equipment
To prepare balsamic glazed grilled vegetables, you’ll need a few essential tools to guarantee the process is smooth and the results are flavorful. The equipment required includes:
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Brush or basting tool
Nutrition
Balsamic glazed grilled vegetables are a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this dish offers a healthy way to enjoy seasonal produce.
- Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
- High in vitamins A and C, supporting immunity and skin health.
- Contains potassium and magnesium, essential for heart health.
- Low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.
- Provides antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I serve balsamic glazed grilled vegetables, I like to pair them with grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost, and a side of quinoa or couscous adds a hearty grain option. A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette keeps things light, while a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese adds a creamy touch. Don’t forget warm crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that delicious glaze!
Complementary Proteins
While balsamic glazed grilled vegetables are delicious on their own, I love pairing them with complementary proteins to make the meal more satisfying. I often add plant protein sources like chickpeas or lentils, which are rich in amino acids and balance the veggies perfectly. Grilled tofu or tempeh also works wonders, giving that extra heft without overshadowing the dish’s natural flavors. It’s a simple, flexible way to elevate your meal!
Side Grain Options
A great grain can turn balsamic glazed grilled veggies into a complete, hearty meal. I love pairing them with quinoa options—like tri-color or red quinoa—for a nutty, protein-packed base. Rice varieties, such as jasmine or wild rice, also work wonders, adding a fluffy texture that soaks up the glaze perfectly. Mixing grains keeps things interesting, letting you explore flavors while keeping it simple and satisfying.
Fresh Salad Pairings
Fresh salads are the perfect way to brighten up a plate of balsamic glazed grilled vegetables, adding a crisp, invigorating contrast to the rich, smoky flavors. I love experimenting with ingredient combinations like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, or spinach, strawberries, and almonds. Light salad dressings, such as lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard, keep things fresh without overpowering the dish. It’s a simple, freeing way to elevate your meal.
Cheese Accents
Adding cheese to balsamic glazed grilled vegetables can take the dish to a whole new level, and I’ve found that it’s all about choosing the right type to complement the flavors. I love experimenting with cheese varieties like creamy goat cheese, tangy feta, or sharp Parmesan for flavor enhancement. Each adds its own unique twist, letting you customize the dish to your taste while keeping it fresh and exciting.
Warm Bread Choices
Serving warm bread with balsamic glazed grilled vegetables can turn a simple dish into a hearty meal, and I’ve found it’s all about picking the right kind. Artisan baguettes, with their crisp crust and soft center, are a go-to for me. Ciabatta choices, toasted and lightly brushed with olive oil, add texture and soak up the glaze. Both let you savor every bite freely, making the meal complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh?
I’d say you can use dried herbs instead of fresh, but remember dried vs fresh affects herb potency. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so I’d use about half the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is Store-Bought Balsamic Glaze Acceptable?
I’ve found store-bought brands of balsamic glaze are perfectly acceptable if you’re short on time. While homemade alternatives let me control the flavor, I often rely on pre-made options for convenience without sacrificing quality.
How Long Can I Store the Grilled Vegetables?
I’d store grilled veggies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep their vegetable freshness. For storage tips, I’d refrigerate them promptly and reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
I can use frozen veggies for grilling, but I’ll adjust my frozen veggie prep and grilling techniques—thawing and patting them dry helps. I find freedom in experimenting, even with frozen options, for flavorful results.
What’S the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
I’d reheat leftovers by choosing between the microwave method for speed or oven reheating for better texture. The microwave’s quick, but the oven keeps food crisper—it’s all about what works best for me in the moment.
