Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Veggie Skewers recipe is an absolute lifesaver for busy days when you want a quick, healthy meal without compromising on flavor. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or as a side to a summer meal. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and can easily be adjusted to suit most dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while making them exciting and flavorful!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), stems trimmed
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare Your Vegetables
Wash all vegetables thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Cut your zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion into even chunks (around 1-1.5 inches). Leave cherry tomatoes whole and trim the stems off the mushrooms. - Create the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The balsamic vinegar gives the veggies a sweet and savory glaze, but it’s optional. - Toss and Coat
Add all your prepared vegetables to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Let the veggies sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare your grill or grill pan. - Assemble the Skewers
Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between colors and textures for a more visually appealing presentation. For even cooking, try to group similar-density vegetables together, like onions and peppers. - Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, rotating them once or twice until the vegetables have light grill marks and are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (2 skewers per person)
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
Variations
- Marinade Options: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for a smoky flavor. You could also use lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar for a more citrusy touch.
- Vegetable Substitutes: Feel free to swap out or add other veggies like eggplant, asparagus, or baby carrots depending on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.
- Add a Protein: You can add chunks of tofu or tempeh to the skewers for a more filling meal, or even pieces of chicken or shrimp for a non-vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: These veggie skewers are best enjoyed immediately after grilling, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or warm them on the grill for a couple of minutes. You can also microwave them, though this may slightly soften the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh vegetables for grilling, as frozen veggies may release too much moisture and affect the texture of the skewers.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and marinate them up to 4 hours ahead of grilling. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What type of skewers should I use?
You can use either wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
How do I prevent the vegetables from overcooking?
Keep an eye on them while grilling. Rotate the skewers every 2-3 minutes, and remove them as soon as the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Can I grill these on a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a grill pan works just as well! Just make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on it.
Can I use other seasonings in the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, or even a dash of chili flakes for some heat.
Are these skewers gluten-free?
Yes, these grilled veggie skewers are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Can I add cheese to the skewers?
Yes, you can thread small cubes of mozzarella or feta cheese onto the skewers for an added burst of flavor.
What can I serve these skewers with?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a simple green salad. They also make a great side dish to grilled meats or fish.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or even a regular non-stick skillet to cook the skewers.
Conclusion
Easy Grilled Veggie Skewers are the perfect summer dish: colorful, full of flavor, and ready in no time. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a healthy and delicious side dish or light meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these skewers are sure to impress without requiring hours of prep. Keep the ingredients simple and the flavors fresh, and you’ve got yourself a winning recipe!
Easy Grilled Veggie Skewers: 10-Minute Summer Fix
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These Grilled Veggie Skewers are quick, healthy, and flavorful, perfect for a summer meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, they’re full of vibrant, roasted vegetables and can easily be customized for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
2 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into wedges
8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), stems trimmed
12 cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for extra flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
8 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Cut your zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion into even chunks (around 1-1.5 inches). Leave cherry tomatoes whole and trim the stems off the mushrooms.
- Create the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The balsamic vinegar gives the veggies a sweet and savory glaze, but it’s optional.
- Toss and Coat: Add all your prepared vegetables to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Let the veggies sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare your grill or grill pan.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between colors and textures for a more visually appealing presentation. For even cooking, try to group similar-density vegetables together, like onions and peppers.
- Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, rotating them once or twice until the vegetables have light grill marks and are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch.
Notes
Marinade Options: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for a smoky flavor. You could also use lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar for a more citrusy touch.
Vegetable Substitutes: Feel free to swap out or add other veggies like eggplant, asparagus, or baby carrots depending on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.
Add a Protein: You can add chunks of tofu or tempeh to the skewers for a more filling meal, or even pieces of chicken or shrimp for a non-vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
