Summer is the perfect season for firing up the grill and enjoying delicious meals outdoors with friends and family. But what if you’re looking to keep your cookout vegetarian-friendly without compromising on flavor?
You’re in luck! Grilling isn’t just for meat lovers — it’s a fantastic way to bring out the natural smoky sweetness of vegetables, fruits, and plant-based proteins.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to mix up your BBQ routine, these 18 vegetarian grilling recipes will impress everyone at your next cookout.
From charred veggie skewers to flavorful stuffed mushrooms and grilled halloumi, each recipe is packed with vibrant ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Plus, grilling adds that irresistible smoky touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
So, grab your tongs and let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that celebrate the best of vegetarian grilling!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These 18 vegetarian grilling recipes are designed to make your cookout lively, colorful, and packed with nutrition. They are:
- Easy to prepare: Most recipes require simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Perfect as main dishes, sides, or snacks.
- Full of flavor: Grilling adds a smoky depth that makes veggies irresistible.
- Healthy and colorful: Great for anyone wanting a nutritious and vibrant meal.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy backyard BBQ, these recipes will cater to all taste buds and satisfy your vegetarian guests without missing the sizzle.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers (assorted colors) – 4 medium
- Portobello mushrooms – 6 large caps
- Zucchini – 3 medium
- Eggplant – 2 medium
- Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups
- Red onion – 2 large
- Halloumi cheese – 400g (optional)
- Firm tofu – 400g (extra firm)
- Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, parsley) – 1 bunch each
- Olive oil – 1 cup
- Lemon juice – 1/4 cup
- Garlic – 6 cloves, minced
- Smoked paprika – 2 tsp
- Cumin powder – 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Skewers – 12 (soaked if wooden)
- BBQ sauce – 1/2 cup (optional)
- Pineapple slices – 8 rings
- Sweet corn – 4 ears
- Fresh corn husks – optional, for grilling
- Spinach leaves – 2 cups (for wraps)
- Black beans – 1 can (for bean patties)
- Chickpeas – 1 can (for falafel)
- Ground flaxseed – 2 tbsp (vegan egg substitute)
- Whole wheat buns – 6 (for veggie burgers)
- Avocado – 2 medium (for topping)
Equipment
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Grill tongs
- Grill brush (for cleaning)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Mixing bowls
- Basting brush
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional, for grilling delicate items)
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness of grilled cheese/tofu)
- Serving platters
Instructions
- Prep your grill: Clean the grill grates thoroughly using a grill brush, then preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
- Marinate your veggies and proteins: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and tofu cubes in the marinade. Let them rest for at least 20 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Assemble skewers: Thread the marinated veggies and tofu alternately onto skewers. For a colorful look, mix red onion slices, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- Grill the corn and pineapple: Place the sweet corn (in husks or wrapped in foil) on the grill. Turn occasionally until slightly charred, about 15-20 minutes. Grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Grill the skewers and halloumi: Place the veggie and tofu skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until tender and charred. Grill halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Prepare bean patties or falafel: Mash black beans or chickpeas with flaxseed and herbs, form into patties or balls, and grill on a lightly oiled grate for 5-7 minutes per side until crisp.
- Toast buns: Lightly brush whole wheat buns with olive oil and toast on the grill for 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
- Assemble burgers and wraps: Layer grilled patties, halloumi or tofu, avocado slices, spinach, and other toppings inside buns or wraps. Add your favorite condiments or BBQ sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy: Transfer all grilled items to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an added burst of freshness.
Tips & Variations
“For the best grilling experience, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.”
- Use firm tofu or tempeh for grilling as they hold shape better than soft varieties.
- Try swapping halloumi with paneer or a plant-based cheese alternative for vegan options.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a handful of soaked wood chips to your charcoal grill.
- Experiment with different marinades like teriyaki, balsamic glaze, or spicy chipotle for variety.
- Make a batch of grilled vegetable salad using leftover grilled veggies tossed with arugula and vinaigrette.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Veggie Skewer + 1 slice Halloumi | 180 kcal | 12g | 10g | 9g | 3g |
| 1 Black Bean Patty | 150 kcal | 8g | 20g | 3g | 5g |
| Grilled Pineapple Slice | 50 kcal | 0.5g | 13g | 0g | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
These vegetarian grilled delights pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled breads, or even a chilled corn and tomato salsa. For a refreshing drink pairing, try a Blueberry Mule with Blueberry Vodka to complement the smoky flavors.
Serve alongside some homemade chips or try our Blackstone Asparagus Recipe for a crisp, green side. If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast option after an evening cookout, check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe to keep the vegetarian theme going strong.
Conclusion
Grilling vegetarian dishes is a fantastic way to bring new life to your cookouts, offering a colorful, flavorful, and healthy alternative to traditional BBQ fare. By using fresh, vibrant ingredients and simple marinades, you can create dishes that satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
These 18 recipes provide a versatile range of options, from skewers and patties to grilled fruits and cheeses, ensuring that every bite is bursting with smoky goodness.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, a family gathering, or just enjoying a quiet dinner on the patio, these vegetarian grilling recipes will make your meal memorable and delicious. So next time you fire up the grill, remember how easy and exciting vegetarian grilling can be — your taste buds and your guests will thank you!
📖 Recipe Card: Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Description: A colorful mix of marinated vegetables grilled to perfection and served with a zesty chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful vegetarian cookout option.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 8 oz mushrooms, whole or halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread vegetables onto skewers alternating colors and types.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper to make chimichurri sauce.
- Brush skewers with some chimichurri sauce.
- Grill skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve hot with remaining chimichurri sauce on the side.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 12 g
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