These grilled veggie skewers are packed with colorful, fresh vegetables marinated in a zesty garlic herb dressing for maximum flavor. Perfect for barbecues, summer gatherings, or a light and healthy meal, these skewers bring out the best in each vegetable, making them deliciously smoky and tender-crisp.
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Key Information:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Number of Servings: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
Ingredients List:
For the Veggie Skewers:
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 yellow squash, sliced into thick rounds
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes
- 8 button mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
- 8 metal or wooden skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
For the Garlic Herb Marinade:
- 60ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the Garlic Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the red and yellow bell peppers into roughly 1-inch pieces. Slice the zucchini and yellow squash into thick rounds. Quarter the red onion into wedges, keeping some of the layers together for easy skewering.
- Marinate the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and let the vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the types of veggies for a colorful presentation.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C / 400°F). Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have a slight char. Brush any remaining marinade over the skewers during grilling for extra flavor.
- Serve Hot: Remove the veggie skewers from the grill and serve immediately, either as a side dish or as the main course with a side of rice or a salad.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Try to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: Leave some space between the skewers on the grill so that the heat can circulate evenly around the vegetables.
- Brush with Marinade While Grilling: For more flavor, keep some of the marinade aside and brush it onto the skewers during grilling.
- Use Fresh Herbs if Available: If you have fresh herbs like basil or oregano on hand, chop them finely and mix them into the marinade for a fresh twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make these veggie skewers in the oven? Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- What other vegetables can I use? You can add vegetables like asparagus, cauliflower, eggplant, or even pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
- How can I make the skewers more filling? Add cubed tofu, halloumi cheese, or even pre-cooked potatoes to the skewers for extra protein and substance.
- Can I prepare the skewers in advance? Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to keep them covered until ready to grill.
- Can I use a different type of oil for the marinade? Yes, avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be used as alternatives to olive oil, especially if you prefer a higher smoke point.
These grilled veggie skewers are a delightful way to enjoy fresh vegetables with a smoky, charred flavor that's perfect for any barbecue or outdoor gathering. Whether you serve them as a side or a main dish, their vibrant colors and zesty garlic herb marinade will impress even the pickiest eaters. Try them out and elevate your grilling game!