I know what you’re thinking—grilled veggies sound boring, but trust me, these skewers are anything but. The smoky flavor from the grill, paired with the tang of balsamic and the sweetness of caramelized veggies, makes every bite a little celebration. I love how easy it is to customize them with whatever’s in season, and they always end up being the star of the table. Wait until you see how simple it is to make them sing.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Grilled veggie skewers are a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for summer barbecues or healthy weeknight dinners. They’re quick to prepare and packed with smoky, charred goodness that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to Customize – Use your favorite vegetables or whatever’s in season for endless variations.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins and fiber, these skewers are as good for you as they are delicious.
- Perfect for Crowds – Great for entertaining, these skewers cook quickly and pair well with any protein or side.
Recipe
Grilled veggie skewers are a vibrant and healthy addition to any meal, perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. Packed with colorful vegetables and a hint of smoky flavor, this dish is both nutritious and easy to prepare. Let’s explore the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the vegetables to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the marinade.
- Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating the pieces for variety.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Notes:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Customize the skewers with your favorite vegetables, such as eggplant, asparagus, or corn.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Serves: 4
- Calories: Approximately 120 per skewer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment
To make perfect grilled veggie skewers, having the right tools is essential. The right equipment guarantees even cooking and easy handling.
- Metal or bamboo skewers (soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs for turning skewers
- Basting brush for oil or marinade
- Cutting board and knife for prepping veggies
- Mixing bowl for seasoning vegetables
Nutrition
Grilled veggie skewers are a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they make a healthy addition to any meal.
- Rich in antioxidants from colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini
- High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health
- Low in calories, making them a great option for weight management
- Provides essential vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A
- Contains minerals such as potassium and magnesium for overall wellness
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly, suitable for various dietary needs
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my grilled veggie skewers with sides that add variety and flavor, like grilled corn for a smoky sweetness or a fresh salad for a crisp contrast. Garlic bread is always a hit, especially when you want something warm and comforting, and rice pilaf makes the meal feel more filling. Don’t forget a cool tzatziki sauce for dipping—it’s creamy, tangy, and perfect with the veggies! This meal is perfect for quick weeknight dinners due to its minimal ingredient requirements while still providing a flavorful dish.
Grilled Corn
When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly grilled corn, especially when it’s paired with veggie skewers. I love experimenting with corn varieties, like sweet yellow or bi-color, to keep things exciting. For grilling techniques, I husk it, brush with oil, and toss it on the grill until charred. It’s simple, smoky, and adds a touch of freedom to any outdoor feast.
Fresh Salad
Pairing grilled veggie skewers with a fresh salad is a great way to balance out the smoky flavors with something light and crisp. I love using seasonal ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a vibrant mix. A simple lemon vinaigrette ties the flavor combinations together perfectly. It’s invigorating, easy to throw together, and lets the veggies shine. Plus, it’s a dish that feels as free as summer itself!
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side that effortlessly complements grilled veggie skewers, adding a cozy, buttery touch to the meal. I love how its crispy edges soak up any leftover marinade. Garlic benefits include a flavor boost and immune support, but if you’re not a fan, try garlic substitutes like roasted shallots or chives. It’s simple, satisfying, and lets your skewers shine. You can’t go wrong!
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is one of my go-to sides for grilled veggie skewers because it’s hearty without stealing the spotlight. I love playing with rice pilaf variations, adding herbs, toasted nuts, or citrus zest for a unique twist. It’s light yet satisfying, making it one of the perfect pairings for smoky, charred veggies. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so I can make it fit any mood or meal.
Tzatziki Sauce
There’s something magical about tzatziki sauce—it’s cool, creamy, and just the right balance of tangy and fresh. I love how it pairs with grilled veggie skewers, adding a revitalizing kick. Packed with health benefits like probiotics from yogurt, it’s a win-win. Traditional variations use dill or mint, so feel free to experiment. It’s simple, versatile, and lets you play with flavors your way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
I can use frozen vegetables, but I’ll notice texture differences compared to fresh. For grilling tips, thawing methods like draining or patting dry help. Using frozen saves time, though I’ll accept a slightly softer result.
How Long Do Skewers Need to Marinate?
I’d marinate skewers for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in, but an hour’s better for peak flavors. If I’m in a rush, I’ll skip it—freedom’s key, and they’ll still taste great.
Are Wooden Skewers Better Than Metal?
I’ve found it’s a coincidence how wooden durability feels natural yet fleeting, while metal heat conductivity guarantees consistency. I prefer wooden skewers for their earthy charm, but metal’s efficiency can’t be ignored when I crave reliability.
Can I Grill Veggie Skewers in the Oven?
I can grill veggie skewers in the oven if I don’t have a grill. I’ll set the oven to broil or high heat for a charred effect, or bake at 400°F for even cooking—grilling alternatives work just fine.
How Do I Prevent Veggies From Sticking to the Grill?
I’ve learned the secret to keeping veggies from sticking lies in grill preparation—preheating and oiling the grates is key. I also choose firmer vegetable selections, like zucchini or peppers, and brush them lightly with oil before grilling.
