Perfect for summer cookouts or any time you're craving something fresh and vibrant, these grilled vegetable skewers bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables with a smoky char and a flavorful herb garlic marinade. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, these skewers are the ideal side dish or light main course for vegetarians and grill enthusiasts alike!
Key Information:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Number of Servings: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 2-3 skewers
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
Ingredients List:
For the Skewers:
- 1 large zucchini (about 200 g / 7 oz), cut into thick rounds
- 1 large red bell pepper (about 150 g / 5 oz), cut into squares
- 1 large yellow bell pepper (about 150 g / 5 oz), cut into squares
- 1 large red onion (about 150 g / 5 oz), cut into wedges
- 200 g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes
- 1 large eggplant (about 250 g / 9 oz), cut into thick rounds
- 200 g (7 oz) button mushrooms, whole
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing skewers)
For the Herb Garlic Marinade:
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and cut all vegetables into uniform-sized pieces. The zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers should be in thick rounds or squares, while the red onion should be cut into wedges. Leave the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms whole.
- Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types to make them visually appealing. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Make the Herb Garlic Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, parsley, basil, rosemary, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the skewers on a baking sheet or shallow dish and generously brush the marinade over the vegetables. Let them marinate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Grill the Skewers:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C / 400°F).
- Place the vegetable skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred. Brush with additional marinade or olive oil during grilling if needed.
- Once done, remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Serve:
- Serve the grilled vegetable skewers hot, either on their own or alongside your favorite grilled meats, grains, or a light salad. They are also great with a side of tzatziki or hummus for dipping.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure the vegetables are cut into even sizes so they cook uniformly. Softer vegetables like cherry tomatoes and mushrooms should be left whole to avoid overcooking.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from catching fire on the grill. If you grill frequently, consider using metal skewers.
- Use High Heat: Grilling at a high temperature helps achieve a nice char on the vegetables without overcooking them, preserving their crunch and texture.
- Extra Flavor Tip: For an added depth of flavor, you can sprinkle the grilled skewers with a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving.
- Marinate Longer for Stronger Flavors: While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating the vegetables for up to 2 hours can intensify the herb garlic flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I prepare these skewers in advance? Yes! You can assemble the skewers and marinate them for up to 2 hours in the fridge. Just grill them when you're ready to serve.
- What if I don't have an outdoor grill? You can easily make these vegetable skewers using a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven. Just make sure to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even charring.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Vegetables like asparagus, corn, or even firm tofu can be added to these skewers. Just keep in mind that harder vegetables may take slightly longer to cook.
- How do I prevent the vegetables from sticking to the grill? Make sure the grill is properly preheated and brush the grates with oil before placing the skewers. You can also lightly oil the vegetables just before grilling.
- Are these skewers vegan and gluten-free? Yes! These skewers are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.