If you're a fan of grilled vegetables or looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this blog post is crafted for you. Grilling vegetables can bring out unique flavors and offer a delightful twist to your usual veggie preparations. Here's our selection of the top 5 grilled veggie recipes that will make your taste buds celebrate.
Grilled Eggplant with Herb Gremolata
Let's start with an Italian twist on grilled veggies. Eggplant, when grilled, becomes tender and flavorsome. Here's how you can make it:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
- For the Gremolata:
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon of finely chopped garlic
- 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
Begin by seasoning the eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat until char marks appear and the eggplant is soft. Meanwhile, prepare the Gremolata by mixing parsley, garlic, and lemon zest.
Once the eggplant is grilled, top each slice with a spoonful of the Gremolata for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. This dish is perfect for an appetizer or side.
💡 Note: Don't skip salting the eggplant slices before grilling to reduce bitterness.
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Caps
Mushrooms, especially portobellos, are a grilling favorite for their meaty texture. Here's a simple yet flavorful recipe:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems removed
- Marinade:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper
Combine marinade ingredients and brush onto the mushroom caps. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. Grill mushrooms gill side up first, then flip after char marks form. Brush with remaining marinade for extra flavor.
Serve as a burger substitute, or slice for a stir-fry or salad.
Grilled Zucchini with Lemon and Parmesan
Zucchini is another veggie that takes beautifully to grilling. Here’s how to give it a Mediterranean flair:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil (optional)
Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Grill until tender and slightly charred. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese immediately after grilling, allowing it to melt slightly. Garnish with basil if desired.
🍋 Note: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end enhances the flavors immensely.
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
Corn on the cob is an all-time classic, but with this recipe, it gets a spicy twist:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- Butter, softened
- Chili powder
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- Salt
Mix butter with chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Spread generously over the corn before grilling or serve as a topping after grilling. Cook until kernels are charred. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Kebabs
Our final recipe combines a medley of vegetables for a colorful and flavorful dish:
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mushrooms, stems removed
Thread vegetables onto skewers alternately. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Serve with a dip like tzatziki or hummus for an extra Mediterranean touch.
In summing up, these five grilled vegetable recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of grilling vegetables. Whether you’re looking for something light, or aiming to impress at your next barbecue, these recipes are all you need. They offer not just flavors but also health benefits, making your meal a feast for the senses and nutritious too.
What are the health benefits of grilling vegetables?
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Grilling vegetables can retain more nutrients than other cooking methods as it uses less water and retains the vegetables’ natural flavors, enhancing their appeal which can lead to better dietary habits. Additionally, the charring can add some beneficial antioxidants like AGEs (Advanced Glycation End-products) but in moderation.
Can I grill vegetables in an oven if I don’t have a barbecue grill?
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Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C). Use a grilling pan or a broiling pan to mimic the effects of outdoor grilling. This method still gives you that chargrilled taste while adding smokiness with a dash of liquid smoke if desired.
Are there any vegetables that shouldn’t be grilled?
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Most vegetables can be grilled, but leafy greens like spinach or delicate greens might not work well due to their structure. Also, unless you use a grilling basket, smaller vegetables might fall through the grill.
