Grilling isn’t just for burgers and hot dogs; vegetables love the heat, too. When cooked over a flame, veggies take on a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that makes them taste even better. Some veggies become tender and juicy, while others get crispy and charred just right.
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Grilled vegetables are the way to go if you want to eat more greens or mix things up at your next barbecue. They’re easy to prepare, cook quickly, and can be seasoned in countless ways. Here are some of the top vegetables that taste amazing on the grill.
Zucchini
Zucchini is a summertime favorite for the grill. Its mild flavor pairs well with garlic, herbs, and a touch of olive oil. When sliced lengthwise or into thick rounds, zucchini holds together well on the grill.
The edges get a little crispy while the inside stays tender. Zucchini grills quickly, usually in about 4 to 5 minutes per side. It’s perfect for tossing into pasta or serving as a side dish.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers come in red, yellow, orange, and green, all grilled. Their natural sweetness gets even stronger when cooked over a flame. Cut them into thick strips or large quarters to keep them from falling through the grate.
They get soft and a little charred, adding color and flavor to any meal. You can eat them plain, stuff them, or mix them into fajitas and salads. Grilled bell peppers are a cookout must.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms soak up marinades and get extra juicy on the grill. Portobello mushrooms are large and meaty, making them a good choice for vegetarian burgers. Smaller varieties like button or cremini can be skewered for easy flipping.
When grilled, mushrooms become tender and full of umami flavor. They only need a little oil, salt, and pepper to shine. Depending on their size, they cook in about 8 to 10 minutes.
Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic cookout favorite. When cooked over high heat, the kernels get caramelized and slightly crispy. Depending on how smoky you want it to taste, you can grill it with or without the husk.
Brushing it with butter, lime, or chili powder makes it even better. The sweetness of the corn really comes through when it's grilled. It’s fun to eat and always a crowd-pleaser.
Eggplant
When grilled, eggplant becomes soft and creamy, with a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Slice it into thick rounds or long strips to stay firm on the grill. It absorbs marinades really well and tastes great with olive oil, garlic, or balsamic vinegar.
Let it grill until the flesh is tender and the skin has a nice char. Grilled eggplant is tasty in wraps, pasta dishes, or on its own. It’s a bold and satisfying veggie choice.
Asparagus
Asparagus is quick and easy to grill. The spears get a little crispy on the outside but stay tender inside. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and they’re ready for the grill.
You can cook them directly on the grates or use a grill basket. They’re done in just a few minutes and taste great with lemon juice or Parmesan cheese. Grilled asparagus is a light, fresh side that pairs with almost anything.
Onions
Grilling brings out the onions' natural sweetness. You can cut them into thick rings or wedges and grill until soft and golden. Red, white, and sweet onions all work well on the grill.
A little char adds a delicious smoky flavor. Grilled onions are great on burgers, in salads, or just on the side. They add depth to any grilled meal.
Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes might be small, but they pack a punch on the grill. Skewer them to keep them from rolling away. The heat blisters their skins, intensifying their flavor.
When cooked, they become juicy and almost saucy. Grilled cherry tomatoes are delicious on skewers, in pasta, or as a simple side. Their pop of color looks beautiful on the plate.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower holds up surprisingly well on the grill. Slice it into thick “steaks” or break it into large florets. It gets crispy on the edges and tender in the middle.
The flavor becomes nutty and slightly smoky. You can season it simply or add barbecue sauce for extra kick. Grilled cauliflower is hearty and filling, perfect for plant-based eaters.
Carrots
Carrots take a bit longer to grill but are well worth the wait. Their natural sweetness comes out as they caramelize over the flame. Slice them lengthwise so they cook evenly.
A light coating of oil and seasoning helps them brown nicely. Grilled carrots pair well with honey, cumin, or a squeeze of lemon. They make a colorful, tasty addition to your grill lineup.
Broccolini
Broccolini is a thinner, more tender cousin of broccoli, and it grills beautifully. The stalks stay firm while the tops get crispy and flavorful. Just drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt before grilling.
It only takes a few minutes on each side. The result is a bright, fresh-tasting veggie with a bit of crunch. Grilled broccolini adds a gourmet touch to any meal.
Cabbage
Grilled cabbage may surprise you. Cut into thick wedges, it holds together and chars on the edges while staying tender inside. The heat softens its flavor and gives it a rich, smoky taste.
A bit of olive oil and garlic makes it shine. You can eat it plain, use it in tacos, or serve it with grilled meats. It’s a hearty, affordable veggie that transforms on the grill.
Green Beans
Green beans are quick to cook and easy to grill in a basket or on skewers. The heat makes them blister slightly and gives them a roasted flavor. They keep a bit of crunch, which makes them satisfying to eat.
Grilled green beans are simple and always delicious. Toss them with garlic, lemon zest, or soy sauce for extra flavor. They’re done in just a few minutes.
Brussels Sprouts
When grilled, Brussels sprouts become crispy and nutty. Slice them in half and toss with oil and seasoning. You can cook them in a basket to prevent them from falling through the grate.
The outside gets crispy while the inside stays soft. Grilled Brussels sprouts go great with balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan. They’re a bold, flavorful side that wins people over.
Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes are hearty and satisfying. Slice them into rounds or wedges for even cooking. The heat brings out their natural sugars, creating a caramelized surface.
They taste amazing with chili powder, cinnamon, or smoked paprika. Grilled sweet potatoes are filling and full of flavor. They’re a comforting, nutrient-packed choice for the grill.
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