Grilled vegetable skewers are one of the easiest ways to bring color, nutrition, and flavor to your table. They’re made with a mix of fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes, all brushed with a simple olive oil and balsamic marinade that enhances their natural sweetness. When cooked on the grill, the vegetables take on a lightly charred, smoky taste that makes them even more delicious.
This recipe is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and works perfectly for outdoor barbecues, weeknight dinners, or as a healthy side dish. Since the vegetables are cut into chunks and threaded onto skewers, they cook evenly and are easy to serve. Whether you follow a vegetarian diet, want a lighter option, or simply need a colorful side dish, these skewers are a recipe worth keeping on hand.
Why You’ll Love These Skewers
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables, this recipe is a smart addition to any balanced diet.
- Quick preparation: With only about 15 minutes of prep time and under 15 minutes of grilling, you can have them ready in less than half an hour.
- Customizable: You can swap or add vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even pineapple to match your taste preferences.
- Perfect for any meal: These skewers pair well with grilled meats, fish, or plant-based proteins, but they’re also satisfying enough to serve on their own.
- Vegan and gluten-free: Naturally plant-based and free from gluten, they’re suitable for a wide range of dietary needs without any adjustments.
- Family-friendly: Bright colors, simple flavors, and an easy-to-eat skewer format make them appealing for both kids and adults.
Ingredients Needed
To make these grilled vegetable skewers, you’ll need a handful of fresh, colorful vegetables along with a simple marinade. Here’s the full list with details to help you get the best results:
- Zucchini (1 medium, sliced into rounds): Choose a firm zucchini and cut it into thick slices. This ensures it holds its shape on the grill without becoming too soft.
- Red bell pepper (1, cut into chunks): Adds sweetness and vibrant color. Cut into even chunks so they cook evenly.
- Yellow bell pepper (1, cut into chunks): Balances flavor and brings a pop of brightness to the skewers.
- Red onion (1, cut into chunks): Offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor once grilled. Cut into layers that can be threaded onto skewers without breaking apart.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy and quick to cook, they add freshness and balance.
- Mushrooms (1 cup, optional): Whole button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well. They soak up the marinade and develop a savory, earthy taste.
- Olive oil (1/4 cup): Helps vegetables cook evenly and prevents them from sticking to the grill.
- Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy sweetness that complements the vegetables.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings depth and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish): Parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be sprinkled over the skewers before serving.
- Skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 20–30 minutes to prevent burning, while metal skewers can be used directly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in a bowl of water for at least 20–30 minutes before threading the vegetables. This step keeps them from burning on the grill.
- Metal skewers can be used immediately.
2. Wash and Cut the Vegetables
- Rinse all vegetables under cold water.
- Slice zucchini into thick, even rounds.
- Cut bell peppers and onion into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly.
- Keep cherry tomatoes and mushrooms whole to prevent them from falling apart while grilling.
3. Make the Marinade
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- This marinade will coat the vegetables and give them a balanced, smoky-sweet flavor when grilled.
4. Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for both presentation and balanced cooking.
- Place the skewers on a tray or plate and brush generously with the prepared marinade.
- For stronger flavor, let the skewers sit for 15–30 minutes before grilling, although this step is optional.
5. Preheat the Grill
- Heat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Skewers
- Place the skewers directly on the grill.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Vegetables should be tender and slightly charred on the edges.
- Brush with extra marinade while grilling if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer skewers to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme if using.
- Serve immediately while warm, either as a side dish or a light vegetarian main.
Tips for Best Results
- Add variety: Try adding mushrooms, eggplant, or even pineapple chunks for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Marinate vegetables for 30 minutes before grilling for richer taste.
- Cooking indoors: Use a grill pan or oven broiler if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
Vegan Colorful Grilled Vegetable Skewers Recipe
Description
Grilled vegetable skewers are a healthy, colorful, and delicious recipe made with zucchini, bell peppers, onion, cherry tomatoes, and a simple olive oil and balsamic marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or as a vegetarian main dish. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Instructions
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If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
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Wash and cut the vegetables: slice zucchini into rounds, chop bell peppers and onion into chunks, and keep cherry tomatoes and mushrooms whole.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
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Thread vegetables onto skewers, alternating types and colors.
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Brush the skewers with the marinade. For stronger flavor, let them rest for 15–30 minutes.
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Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
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Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
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Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
