BBQ Party Vegetarian Recipes for a Flavorful Feast

Updated On: October 5, 2025

There’s nothing quite like gathering friends and family for a sun-soaked BBQ party in your backyard. The sizzle of the grill, the laughter, and the clink of glasses are summer’s essential soundtrack.

For vegetarians or anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their cookout, BBQs can sometimes feel limiting. But the truth is, vegetarian BBQ recipes are far from bland or boring!

With vibrant veggies, smoky marinades, and creative twists, you can serve up a colorful array of dishes that will have everyone—meat-eaters included—coming back for seconds.

In this post, I’m excited to share a collection of BBQ party vegetarian recipes that will turn your next cookout into a plant-powered feast. From hearty grilled mains to crowd-pleasing sides and even a sweet treat, these recipes are designed to impress.

Whether you’re hosting seasoned vegetarians or simply want to offer more diverse flavors at your BBQ, these dishes are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to make your gathering memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-Packed: Each recipe is thoughtfully seasoned and grilled to bring out the best in every ingredient.
  • Healthy and Satisfying: Full of nutrients, fiber, and plant-based protein to keep you energized throughout your party.
  • Colorful and Festive: These dishes look as good as they taste, adding a vibrant touch to your BBQ table.
  • Easy to Prepare: With clear instructions and simple equipment, even novice grillers can achieve delicious results.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Designed for gatherings, these recipes are easily doubled or tripled for larger crowds.
  • Meat-Eater Approved: The bold flavors and hearty textures will satisfy everyone, regardless of dietary preference.

BBQ Party Vegetarian Recipes List

Below, you’ll find three standout vegetarian recipes perfect for your next BBQ party:


Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers with Herb Aioli

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Portobello mushroom caps 4 large
Olive oil 3 tbsp
Balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced 2
Salt and black pepper To taste
Burger buns 4
Fresh lettuce 4 leaves
Tomato, sliced 1 large
Red onion, sliced 1 small
Swiss or provolone cheese (optional) 4 slices
For Herb Aioli:
Mayonnaise (vegan or regular) 1/2 cup
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp
Fresh chives, chopped 1 tbsp
Garlic, minced 1 clove

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Basting brush
  • Spatula or grill tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the portobello mushroom caps with a damp cloth and remove the stems. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate: Place the mushroom caps in a shallow dish and brush the marinade over both sides. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes for maximum flavor.
  3. Make the Herb Aioli: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, chives, and minced garlic. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Mushrooms: Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill, gill side down. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until tender and juicy. Add cheese slices for the last 2 minutes if desired.
  6. Toast the Buns: Place the burger buns cut side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
  7. Assemble: Spread herb aioli generously on the buns. Layer with grilled mushroom, lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Top with the bun and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

  • Make It Vegan: Use vegan mayo and skip the cheese or opt for a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Add Extra Toppings: Avocado slices, grilled bell peppers, or pickles make delicious additions.
  • Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the mushrooms overnight in the fridge.
  • Tip: Portobello mushrooms shrink slightly as they cook, so choose larger caps for your burgers.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 310
Protein 9g
Fat 16g
Carbohydrates 32g
Fiber 4g

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with your favorite BBQ sides, like Half Runner Beans or a tangy coleslaw.
  • Pair with crispy oven-baked fries or grilled sweet potato wedges.
  • For a complete summer spread, add homemade drinks like the Green Goodness Juice.

Rainbow Veggie Skewers with Smoky Marinade

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Red bell pepper 1, cut into chunks
Yellow bell pepper 1, cut into chunks
Zucchini 1 medium, sliced
Red onion 1, cut into wedges
Cherry tomatoes 1 pint
Mushrooms (button or cremini) 8 oz, whole
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 2 tbsp
Smoked paprika 2 tsp
Garlic powder 1 tsp
Dried oregano 1 tsp
Salt and black pepper To taste

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill or grill pan
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Basting brush
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

  1. Prep the Veggies: Wash and cut all vegetables into bite-sized pieces suitable for skewering.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Marinate the Veggies: Add the chopped vegetables to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Thread the Skewers: Alternate the vegetables on the skewers for a vibrant, rainbow effect.
  5. Grill: Heat grill to medium-high. Place skewers on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes. Brush with extra marinade as they cook. Grill for 8-12 minutes or until veggies are tender and slightly charred.
  6. Serve: Remove from grill and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Use What You Have: Substitute with seasonal vegetables like eggplant, summer squash, or asparagus.
  • Add Protein: Include cubes of halloumi cheese or extra-firm tofu for a heartier skewer.
  • Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per 2 Skewers
Calories 120
Protein 3g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 4g

Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary based on vegetable selection.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside Green Chile Cheese Bread for a flavorful side.
  • Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra zest.
  • Great as a main dish or a vibrant addition to a larger BBQ spread.

Chili-Lime Grilled Corn on the Cob

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Fresh corn, husked 6 ears
Olive oil or melted butter 2 tbsp
Chili powder 1 1/2 tsp
Lime juice 2 tbsp
Salt To taste
Chopped cilantro (optional) 2 tbsp
Crumbled cotija or feta cheese (optional) 1/4 cup

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Preheat grill to medium-high. Remove husks and silk from corn.
  2. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or butter), chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on the grill. Cook, turning every 2 minutes, until kernels are lightly charred and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Season: Brush the warm corn with the chili-lime mixture. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and cheese if using.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

  • Make It Vegan: Use olive oil and skip cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your heat preference.
  • Tip: For a creamy twist, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the corn before sprinkling with chili powder and cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Ear
Calories 110
Protein 3g
Fat 3g
Carbohydrates 21g
Fiber 2g

Values include cheese topping. For vegan version, calories and fat will be slightly lower.

Serving Suggestions


Conclusion

Hosting a BBQ party as a vegetarian—or for guests who are—doesn’t mean sacrificing bold, smoky flavors or festive favorites. These BBQ party vegetarian recipes prove that the grill is just as much for veggies as it is for anything else.

With dishes like Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers, Rainbow Veggie Skewers, and Chili-Lime Grilled Corn, you’ll create a menu that’s colorful, nutritious, and utterly delicious.

Don’t be surprised if even the biggest meat lovers go back for seconds! You can easily mix and match these recipes or add your own favorite sides and salads.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a fun brunch addition or the Kohlrabi Recipes Grilled for another unique grilling idea. With a little creativity and these tried-and-true recipes, your next BBQ party will be a plant-powered hit everyone will love!

📖 Recipe Card: Grilled Veggie Skewers with BBQ Glaze

Description: Colorful skewers of marinated vegetables grilled to perfection and brushed with a tangy BBQ glaze. A crowd-pleasing vegetarian option for any BBQ party.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 6 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
  • 12 button mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (vegetarian)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss the chopped vegetables in the marinade until evenly coated.
  4. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating types for color.
  5. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
  6. Brush BBQ sauce onto skewers during the last 2-3 minutes of grilling.
  7. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 13 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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