Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated! Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings out the smoky sweetness of fresh vegetables, this recipe for Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated! is exactly what you need. It’s a celebration of garden-fresh produce, kissed by the grill’s char and enhanced by a zesty, herby marinade that seeps deeply into every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a healthy, colorful side, these grilled vegetables deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds and elevate your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component plays a crucial role in building an irresistible medley of tastes, colors, and textures. From the vibrant bell peppers to the earthy mushrooms, and the tangy, aromatic marinade, each element enhances the dish’s overall appeal.

• 2 red capsicum/bell peppers: Provide sweetness and a beautiful pop of red color when grilled.
• 2 yellow capsicum/bell peppers: Add bright, sunny notes and a slightly different sweetness.
• 2 red onions: Give a mild sharpness that softens and caramelizes on the grill.
• 1 eggplant (halved and sliced): Offers a creamy texture and soaks up the marinade beautifully.
• 2 zucchini (sliced diagonally): Bring a tender bite and subtle richness with grilled grill marks.
• 2 bunches asparagus (ends trimmed): Deliver a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast.
• 200g button mushrooms: Provide earthy depth and a juicy bite.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing): Essential for grilling and adding richness.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the vegetable flavors.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuse a punch of fragrant, savory intensity.
• 1/4 cup parsley (roughly chopped): Adds fresh herbal brightness to finish.
• Marinade ingredients: 1/3 cup lemon juice, 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tsp sugar, 2 garlic cloves minced, salt, pepper, dried herbs (basil, parsley, oregano, thyme), and chilli flakes for a touch of heat.

How to Make Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated!

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

The magic of Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated! starts with the dressing that brightens and enriches the vegetables. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, sugar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried herbs, and chili flakes in a jar. Shake it up and set it aside for at least 10 minutes. This vibrant dressing will coat the smoky vegetables later, blending warmth and freshness in every bite.

Step 2: Cut the Vegetables for Grilling

Keep your pieces large and hearty to make handling on the grill easy, and to prevent them from falling through the grates. Remove the walls from the capsicum and slice diagonally into generous chunks. For onions, peel, halve, and then slice into wedges, keeping the root end intact to hold them together. Slice eggplant into thick semi-circles, zucchini diagonally into firm slices, and trim asparagus. This prep ensures even cooking with ample char and tender centers.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

Brush the BBQ grill lightly with oil and preheat it to high heat, or set your oven to 250°C (480°F) for roasting. Toss all vegetables in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic—make sure to use your hands here; it feels like the best part! Grill each veggie according to its texture: asparagus and zucchini for 2 minutes per side; capsicum, mushrooms, and onion for 3 minutes per side; and eggplant for 4 minutes per side. The goal is tender-crisp with beautifully charred edges. Transfer them into a large bowl while they’re still piping hot.

Step 4: Marinate and Rest

While the vegetables remain warm, drizzle the prepared marinade over the bowl. Toss gently so every piece is kissed with the zesty, herb-infused flavors. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to soak in all that goodness. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a final touch of color and brightness. This resting step transforms simple grilled veggies into something truly remarkable.

How to Serve Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated!

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives add vibrant color and a burst of herbaceous freshness. For an extra layer of indulgence, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze or add crumbled feta cheese, which lends a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor.

Side Dishes

These grilled vegetables shine as a main or a side. Pair them with fluffy couscous, herby quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the juices and marinade. They also complement grilled meats, fish, or tofu perfectly, bringing a fresh, smoky balance to heartier proteins.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual vibe, serve the veggies family-style in a big rustic platter, inviting everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, arrange them artistically on individual plates with a drizzle of extra marinade and sprinkle of nuts or seeds for a delightful crunch. Wrap the marinated vegetables in warm pita bread with some hummus for a delicious handheld meal, or toss them through a warm pasta with a splash of the dressing for a quick vegetable-packed dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated! keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain the marinade’s flavors and the vegetables’ texture. The flavors might even deepen after resting overnight, making them a perfect make-ahead side or salad base.

Freezing

While grilling releases moisture, these vegetables can be frozen if needed, but texture may slightly soften upon thawing. Flash freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Use them within 1 to 2 months for best flavor and reheat gently to avoid mushiness.

Reheating

Reheat the grilled vegetables gently in a hot pan or oven rather than microwave to keep their texture intact. Pull them out just before serving and toss with a bit more fresh herbs or a splash of fresh lemon juice to revive their vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables besides the ones listed?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies like sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli florets. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary depending on the density of the vegetable.

Do I need to peel the vegetables before grilling?

Most vegetables hold their flavor and texture best with the skins on. Onions and eggplant skin add to the char and taste, so just make sure to wash everything thoroughly.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing the marinade a few hours or even a day in advance helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just give it a good shake before tossing with the warm vegetables.

How spicy will this dish be with the chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a gentle heat that complements the smoky vegetables without overwhelming them. You can adjust the amount from 1/2 to 1 teaspoon or omit them altogether if you prefer mild flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Definitely! This dish is naturally vegan and vegetarian-friendly, packed with plant-based goodness and nothing animal-derived, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the simple joy of biting into perfectly grilled veggies, bursting with smoky char and a bright, tangy marinade. I truly encourage you to give this Incredible BBQ Grilled Vegetables – marinated! recipe a go. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors that will brighten any meal and bring everyone back for seconds. Happy grilling!

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