Summer is the perfect time to gather around the grill and enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors straight from the garden. While grilled meats may take center stage at most barbecues, veggies deserve a spot on the grill, too. Grilling enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky, charred touch that’s hard to resist. In this post, we’ll explore a variety of grilled vegetable recipes that are as delicious as they are nutritious, perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their summer cookouts.

Why Grill Veggies?

Grilling vegetables not only brings out their natural sweetness but also adds a unique depth of flavor. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, creating a smoky, slightly charred finish that enhances the taste. Plus, grilled veggies are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish, the main event, or even incorporated into wraps, salads, and pizzas.

Here’s a collection of our favorite summer grilled veggie recipes that are sure to impress everyone at your next barbecue.

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs: A Colorful and Flavorful Treat

There’s something special about skewering vibrant vegetables and watching them sizzle on the grill. Grilled vegetable kabobs are a simple, yet satisfying option for a summer meal. You can mix and match your favorite veggies, creating endless combinations that suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• Bell peppers (red, yellow, and green)
• Zucchini
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Red onions
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley)

Instructions:

1. Cut the vegetables into uniform-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
2. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for visual appeal.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
4. Grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are lightly charred and tender.

Serving Tip: These kabobs pair well with grilled tofu or serve them over a bed of couscous for a more substantial meal.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: A Smoky Twist on a Summer Classic

No summer barbecue is complete without corn on the cob. While boiling corn is the traditional method, grilling it takes this side dish to the next level. The smoky char from the grill, combined with the creamy richness of garlic herb butter, makes this dish irresistible.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn on the cob (husks removed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the corn with olive oil and place directly on the grill grates.
3. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even charring.
4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic and parsley.
5. Once the corn is grilled to perfection, brush generously with the garlic herb butter and season with salt and pepper.

Serving Tip: Add a sprinkle of cotija cheese or chili powder for a Mexican street corn-inspired variation.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: A Meaty, Plant-Based Option

Portobello mushrooms are a fantastic alternative to meat, especially when grilled. Their rich, savory flavor and meaty texture make them a hit among vegetarians and carnivores alike. Marinating them in balsamic vinegar and herbs enhances their taste, making them a great addition to any barbecue spread.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Remove the mushroom stems and brush both sides of the caps with the marinade.
3. Let the mushrooms sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill the mushrooms over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and juicy.

Serving Tip: Serve these grilled mushrooms as a main dish, or slice them up and use them as a topping for salads or sandwiches.

Grilled Eggplant Steaks: A Flavorful and Filling Vegetarian Dish

Eggplant takes on a smoky, caramelized flavor when grilled, making it the perfect base for a satisfying summer meal. Grilled eggplant steaks, topped with fresh herbs and feta cheese, are a showstopper dish that’s both hearty and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (oregano, basil)
• Feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions:

1. Slice the eggplants into thick steaks (about 1/2 inch thick).
2. Brush each slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant for 4-5 minutes per side, until caramelized and tender.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs before serving.

Serving Tip: Pair these eggplant steaks with a fresh tomato salad for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Stuffed bell peppers are always a hit, and grilling them adds an extra layer of flavor. This recipe combines quinoa, black beans, corn, and cheese for a filling and nutritious summer meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and veggie-lovers alike.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture and place them on the grill.
4. Grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Serving Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an added burst of flavor.

Grilled Veggie Pizzas: A Fun Twist on a Classic Dish

Who says you need a pizza oven to enjoy homemade pizza? Grilling pizza gives it a crispy, charred crust and a deliciously smoky flavor. Top it with your favorite grilled veggies for a summer meal that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Assorted grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh basil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and brush with olive oil.
3. Place the dough directly on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, until grill marks form.
4. Flip the dough, add the cheese and grilled vegetables, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Serving Tip: For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey.

Grilled Asparagus Spears: A Simple and Elegant Side Dish

Asparagus spears grill beautifully, becoming tender with a slight char. Drizzle them with lemon garlic butter for a simple, yet sophisticated side dish that’s perfect for summer dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the garlic and lemon juice.
4. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter over the grilled asparagus before serving.

Serving Tip: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a bit of extra richness.

Grilled Veggie Wraps: A Portable and Nutritious Meal

Grilled veggies make a perfect filling for wraps, especially when combined with creamy avocado and hummus. These grilled veggie wraps are a great option for a light, nutritious lunch or dinner that you can take on the go.

Ingredients:

• Assorted grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
• Whole wheat tortillas
• Hummus
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Mixed greens

Instructions:

1. Spread a generous layer of hummus on each tortilla.
2. Layer the grilled veggies, avocado slices, and mixed greens on top.
3. Roll up the wraps tightly and cut in half before serving.

Serving Tip: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion: Fire Up the Grill and Enjoy the Flavors of Summer

Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor that’s perfect for summer meals. Whether you’re making a simple side dish or a hearty main course, these grilled veggie recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. So, fire up the grill, savor the fresh flavors of summer, and enjoy the