These easy grilled vegetable skewers are colorful and tasty! You’ll love the mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, all perfectly charred on the grill.
Grilling brings out the sweetness in the veggies, making them fun to eat! I like to enjoy these skewers as a light meal or a side at BBQs with friends—delicious and healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Sliced zucchini adds a nice texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too and has a similar taste.
Bell Pepper: Use red or yellow for sweetness. Green bell pepper can substitute, but it has a more bitter flavor. If you’re looking for a colorful addition, try using mini sweet peppers!
Cherry Tomatoes: They burst with flavor when grilled. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned whole tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes are great alternatives.
Red Onion: This onion variety is sweeter when grilled. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia or white onions.
Mushrooms: Whole or halved mushrooms work great. If you can’t find fresh, canned mushrooms can be used, but their texture may differ after grilling.
Potato: They add heartiness. You can use sweet potatoes instead for a different flavor profile, or replace with firm veggies like eggplant or carrots for a lighter version.
Olive Oil: This is key for flavor and to prevent sticking. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different twist.
How Do You Grill Vegetables Perfectly on Skewers?
Grilling vegetables on skewers is all about balancing the cooking times and ensuring everything is evenly cooked. Here are some tips for success:
- Start with firm vegetables like potatoes; they take longer to cook. For quicker cooking veggies like zucchini or bell pepper, cut them into larger pieces to match the cooking time.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season them well before grilling; it helps enhance flavors and prevent sticking.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes for even cooking and nice grill marks. Aim for around 10-15 minutes total, adjusting for your grill’s heat.
With these techniques, you’ll have beautiful, perfectly grilled vegetable skewers ready to enjoy!
How to Make Easy Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup mushrooms, whole or halved
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cut into cubes
Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 20 minutes of prep time and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. In total, you should set aside half an hour to enjoy these delicious vegetable skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your skewers get those beautiful grill marks and cook properly.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced zucchini, bell pepper chunks, cherry tomatoes, red onion pieces, mushrooms, and potato cubes. Make sure everything is mixed well!
3. Season the Vegetables:
Drizzle the olive oil over your vegetable mixture and sprinkle in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until all the veggies are nicely coated with the seasoning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to thread the vegetables onto your skewers! Alternate between different types of vegetables for beautiful colors and variety. This not only looks lovely but ensures a mix of flavors in each bite.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place your assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them until they become tender and have those lovely grill marks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for a moment. These skewers make a perfect warm side dish or light main course. Enjoy your delicious grilled vegetable skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in These Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any vegetables for your favorites. Good options include bell peppers, asparagus, eggplant, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or toss them back on a hot grill for a few minutes until warmed through. They’re great in salads or wraps, too!
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to grill, bring them to room temperature before cooking for best results.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Vegetable Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes! Try serving them with quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad. They also make a tasty addition to a sandwich or wrap. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled proteins like chicken or tofu.
