Grilled Veggie Recipe: A Summertime Delight
Summer is grilling season, and what better way to enjoy the bounty of fresh vegetables than by grilling them? This recipe is simple, flexible, and delivers incredibly flavorful grilled vegetables perfect as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or even a topping for your favorite protein.
What You'll Need:
This recipe is highly adaptable, feel free to swap out veggies based on what's fresh and in season! Here's a suggestion for a great mix:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into large chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut into large chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch thick wedges
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 ears of corn, shucked
- Olive oil: About 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Optional herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano add amazing flavor! (About 1 tablespoon chopped)
Preparing Your Veggies for Grilling Perfection:
- Even Slicing/Chunking is Key: Consistent size ensures even cooking. Aim for similar sized pieces for all your vegetables.
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of grilling. Work in batches if necessary.
- Prepping your grill: Make sure your grill is clean and heated to medium-high heat.
The Grilling Process:
- Toss with oil and seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs. Make sure all the vegetables are nicely coated.
- Grill the veggies: Place the vegetables on the preheated grill. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Corn on the cob will typically take 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep a close eye on your veggies to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Marinade Magic: For even more intense flavor, marinate your veggies in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the finished grilled vegetables for a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the finished grilled vegetables for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish Superstar: This grilled veggie medley is a fantastic side dish for any grilled meat or fish.
- Vegetarian Main Course: Serve the grilled vegetables over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Pizza Topping Powerhouse: Use the grilled veggies as a delicious and healthy topping for your homemade pizza.
- Salad Addition: Add the grilled vegetables to your favorite salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
Enjoy Your Delicious Grilled Vegetables!
This versatile recipe is a perfect way to showcase the natural flavors of summer vegetables. Experiment with different vegetable combinations and seasonings to find your own perfect grilled veggie masterpiece! Remember to share your creations! Use the hashtag #grilledveggies to show off your culinary skills.
