Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a celebration of summer’s bounty. With their vibrant colors and smoky flavors, they make a perfect side dish for any meal or a delicious main course on their own. This recipe is simple yet versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite seasonal produce. Fire up the grill and prepare to enjoy this healthy, tasty dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 red onion, cut into wedges
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): Calories: 150, Protein: 2g, Carbohydrates: 9g, Fat: 12g, Fiber: 3g. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. 2. Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into even pieces. 3. In a large bowl, combine the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. 4. Toss the vegetables until evenly coated. 5. Place the vegetables in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates. 6. Grill the vegetables for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred. 7. Check for doneness; they should be slightly softened and have grill marks. 8. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. 9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. 10. Serve warm as a side dish or over a bed of grains for a main course. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute zucchini with eggplant or use any seasonal vegetables like corn or mushrooms. Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Grilled vegetables pair beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or can be served on a bed of quinoa or rice. They also make a great addition to salads or sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover grilled vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcrowding the grill can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not preheating the grill can prevent proper charring.
- Using too much oil can cause flare-ups.
- Forgetting to season can lead to bland flavors.
- Cutting vegetables unevenly will result in uneven cooking.
- Grilling on too low heat may not achieve the desired char.
- Neglecting to turn the vegetables can cause burning on one side.
Helpful Tips
- Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- Marinate the vegetables for 30 minutes for enhanced taste.
- Use a grill basket for smaller pieces to prevent loss.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for variety.
- Let the grilled vegetables rest for a few minutes to enhance flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for grilling?
While fresh vegetables yield the best results, you can use frozen vegetables. Thaw and pat dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture.
What grill temperature is best for vegetables?
Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling vegetables, as it allows for a nice char without burning them.
How do I know when my vegetables are done?
Vegetables should be tender and have visible grill marks. A fork should easily pierce them without resistance.
Can I grill vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill them ahead of time and reheat them later. They are also delicious served cold in salads.
What are some good vegetable combinations?
A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and asparagus works wonderfully together, but feel free to get creative with your favorites.
Conclusion
Grilled vegetables are not only a healthy option but also a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish can complement any meal or stand as a delightful main course. Enjoy the vibrant colors and smoky flavors, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or seasonings to make it your own!
Grilled Vegetables
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 red onion cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup asparagus trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into even pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Toss the vegetables until evenly coated.
- Place the vegetables in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the vegetables for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred.
- Check for doneness; they should be slightly softened and have grill marks.
- Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish or over a bed of grains for a main course.