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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This vegetable adds a nice crispness. If you don’t have zucchini, summer squash works well too. Both will hold up nicely on the grill.
Bell Pepper: I love using red or yellow bell peppers for their sweetness. You could swap in green peppers for a slightly more bitter taste, or use other colors for variety.
Red Onion: These give a great flavor punch. If you prefer something milder, try sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions for a fresh twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: They burst with flavor when grilled. If you don’t have them, any small tomato variety works, but cherry tomatoes are the best for their juiciness!
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are perfect for skewers. If you’d like a different flavor, portobello or cremini mushrooms can be a great substitute.
Potatoes: They add heartiness to the skewers; feel free to replace them with sweet potatoes or even skip them altogether! They require longer cooking, so consider pre-cooking them if you include them.
How Do You Get The Perfect Grill Marks on Vegetables?
Grilling vegetables just right can make them even more appetizing. The trick is in managing the heat and timing. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled veggies.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This is essential for good grill marks.
- Arrange your skewers on the grill without overcrowding. Leave some space between them to allow air flow.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes. This keeps them from burning and ensures even cooking.
- Look for soft but slightly firm veggies with beautiful char marks, usually after about 10-12 minutes, depending on your grill.
Don’t rush; good things take time. Enjoy watching those grill marks appear!
How to Make Easy Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz button mushrooms, whole or halved if large
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes (optional)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and about 10-12 minutes to grill. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 20-30 minutes beforehand. You’ll have a tasty grilled vegetable dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps to prevent them from burning when grilled. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well so all the ingredients are combined into a tasty marinade.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and potatoes (if you’re using them) into the bowl with the marinade. Gently stir until all the vegetables are well-coated. This step gives your veggies lots of flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While your veggies are soaking up the flavor, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the skewers cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
5. Thread the Skewers:
Carefully thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers. Alternate the vegetables to create a colorful and eye-catching presentation. Don’t overcrowd them; leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Grill the vegetables for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when they’re tender and have those lovely grill marks!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled vegetable skewers warm, either as a side dish or a tasty vegetarian main course!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables like asparagus, eggplant, or even corn on the cob. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for denser veggies like carrots or potatoes, so cut them smaller or parboil them beforehand.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Vegetable Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat. For a tasty addition, toss them in a salad or wrap them in a tortilla!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers up to a day in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Vegetable Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. They’re also great alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian barbecue spread. Enjoy!
