These Grilled Veggie Skewers are a perfect dish for a summer BBQ or a healthy side for any meal. Packed with a variety of colorful vegetables, these skewers are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The smoky char from the grill combined with the savory marinade makes these veggies a must-try. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a family dinner, these veggie skewers will impress everyone at the table.
Let’s get grilling!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 large zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mushrooms, cleaned and left whole
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
Tools:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill or grill pan
- Small bowl for marinade
- Tongs or brush for basting
Pro Tips for the Best Veggie Skewers
- Use wooden skewers? If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Marinate for extra flavor – Let the veggies marinate for at least 15–30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Grill at the right temperature – Aim for medium-high heat to ensure the vegetables cook evenly and get a nice char without burning.
- Cut uniform sizes – This ensures all veggies cook at the same rate.
Substitutions and Variations
- Add Protein: Toss some tofu or grilled chicken on the skewers for added protein.
- Herb Variations: Swap dried oregano for thyme, rosemary, or basil to give the skewers a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for some heat.
- More Veggies: You can also include eggplant, yellow squash, or even baby potatoes.
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Veggies
Start by cutting all the vegetables into uniform-sized chunks so that they cook evenly on the grill. Slice the zucchini into rounds, cut the bell pepper, red onion, and broccoli into chunks, and keep the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms whole. This helps with consistent grilling.
2. Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The marinade should be tangy, savory, and a bit garlicky to enhance the natural flavors of the veggies.
3. Marinate the Veggies
Place all the prepared vegetables into a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the veggies and toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15–30 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
4. Assemble the Skewers
Once the vegetables have marinated, thread them onto your skewers, alternating between the different vegetables for a colorful and varied skewer. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and lightly charred. If you’re using a grill pan, make sure to brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once the veggies are grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: You can reheat them in the microwave or on a grill pan for a few minutes to restore their char.
How to Serve Grilled Veggie Skewers
- As a Side Dish: Serve with grilled meats or tofu for a well-rounded meal.
- On a Salad: Toss the grilled veggies on top of a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them as a light snack or appetizer with a yogurt or tahini dipping sauce.
Conclusion
These Grilled Veggie Skewers are the perfect way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and colorful dish. The smoky flavor, combined with the tangy marinade and tender vegetables, makes this recipe an easy yet impressive option for any meal.
