Introduction
Grilling is one of the best ways to bring out the natural flavors of fresh vegetables, and this colorful vegetable skewer recipe does just that. Pairing a variety of vibrant vegetables with a flavorful marinade creates a dish that is not only visually appealing but also delicious and healthy. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal, these skewers can be customized with your favorite seasonal vegetables.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 orange bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
2 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
2 yellow zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 eggplant, sliced into thick rounds
For the sauce:
¼ cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy these grilled vegetable skewers as a delightful side dish or as a main course for a vegetarian meal. The combination of colors, tastes, and textures will make every bite a memorable experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other vegetables or herbs based on your preferences and seasonal availability!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure that the vegetables cook evenly and achieve that desirable char.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will be used for basting the vegetables.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
Thread the cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper chunks, orange bell pepper chunks, yellow bell pepper chunks, red onion chunks, sliced zucchini, sliced yellow zucchini, and sliced eggplant onto skewers, ensuring an even distribution of colors and types of vegetables.
Step 4: Marinade the Skewers
Brush the prepared olive oil mixture onto the skewers. Allow the skewers to sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors of the marinade.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the skewers, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly charred all over, approximately 10-12 minutes. Use the reserved marinade to baste the vegetables as needed for added flavor and moisture.
Step 6: Serve
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately while they are still warm.
Notes
Note 1: Vegetable Preparation
Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Thick rounds for zucchini and eggplant help them withstand the grilling process.
Note 2: Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the vegetables to prevent burning on the grill.
Note 3: Additional Flavor
Feel free to add other vegetables or seasoning of your choice to customize the skewers. Bell peppers can be replaced with other types of peppers for variation.
Note 4: Serving Suggestion
These grilled vegetable skewers make a great side dish for grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian main course with a side of rice or quinoa.
Cook techniques
Grilling
Grilling is a popular cooking method that uses direct heat to cook food. It imparts a smoky flavor and can create a delicious char on the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Marinating
Marinating enhances the flavor of vegetables by soaking them in a mixture of oil, herbs, and spices. This process allows the ingredients to penetrate the vegetables, resulting in more flavorful and tender outcomes.
Threading
Threading vegetables onto skewers helps in even cooking and makes it easier to handle them on the grill. It’s also a fun presentation method for serving grilled dishes.
Basting
Basting involves brushing or spooning a marinade or sauce over the food as it’s cooking. This helps to keep the vegetables moist and adds layers of flavor throughout the cooking process.
Charring
Charring occurs when food is cooked at high heat until it develops a dark brown exterior. This technique enhances the flavors through caramelization and adds a delightful texture to grilled vegetables.
FAQ
What can I use as a substitute for cherry tomatoes?
You can use grape tomatoes, diced larger tomatoes, or any small variety of tomatoes as substitutes for cherry tomatoes.
Can I use other vegetables for skewering?
Yes, you can use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, asparagus, or even chunks of pineapple.
How long should I marinate the vegetables?
Marinating for 10-15 minutes is sufficient for this recipe to infuse flavor into the vegetables.
What type of skewers should I use?
You can use either metal skewers or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetables and marinade ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Make sure to skewer the vegetables shortly before cooking.
Conclusion
Grilled vegetable skewers are a vibrant and delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables. The combination of cherry tomatoes, colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, all enhanced by a savory garlic and Dijon mustard marinade, creates a satisfying dish perfect for summer barbecues or healthy meal prep.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Vegetable Medley Salad
Combine leftover grilled vegetables with mixed greens, feta cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Use the same vegetables in a quick stir-fry with your choice of protein, served over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Pasta Primavera
Toss grilled vegetables with cooked pasta, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a delightful pasta primavera.
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Mix grilled vegetables with quinoa, avocado, and a squeeze of lemon for a nutritious grain bowl.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Chop leftover grilled vegetables and mix with rice, beans, and cheese to stuff into halved bell peppers, then bake until heated through.
