BBQ Recipes Vegetarian Barbecue Recipes for Delicious Grilling

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Nothing says summer quite like the smoky aroma of a BBQ wafting through the air, the sound of laughter, and the sizzle of delicious food on the grill. But who says barbecues are only for meat lovers?

Vegetarian barbecue recipes are taking center stage, transforming veggies, cheeses, and plant-based proteins into irresistible, crowd-pleasing dishes. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your cookout, these BBQ recipes will revolutionize the way you think about grilling.

From juicy marinated mushrooms to zesty grilled corn and hearty veggie skewers, vegetarian barbecue brings vibrant flavors, bold textures, and endless creativity to your next gathering. Get ready to discover vegetarian BBQ recipes so delicious, even the most committed carnivores will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-Packed: Marinated veggies and plant-based proteins absorb smoky, tangy BBQ flavors beautifully.
  • Simple Ingredients: Most recipes use easy-to-find produce and pantry staples.
  • Quick & Versatile: Many vegetarian BBQ recipes come together in less than 30 minutes and can be customized with your favorite veggies or sauces.
  • Healthy & Satisfying: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, these dishes leave you feeling full and energized.
  • Crowd-Pleasers: Great for mixed-diet gatherings—everyone will find something to love!

Ingredients

Recipe Ingredients
BBQ Veggie Skewers
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, stems removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (vegan or regular)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter
  • 4 ears of corn, husked
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or vegan butter, softened
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
BBQ Portobello Mushroom Steaks
  • 4 large portobello mushroom caps, cleaned
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp BBQ sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
Grilled Halloumi & Veggie Sandwiches
  • 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
  • 1 small eggplant, sliced into rounds
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 sandwich buns (try homemade sourdough buns)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp pesto (optional)

Equipment

  • Grill: Gas or charcoal grill, or a grill pan for stovetop use
  • Skewers: Metal or wooden (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use)
  • Basting brush: For applying marinades and sauces
  • Tongs: For turning vegetables and proteins easily
  • Mixing bowls: For tossing veggies and making marinades
  • Knife and cutting board: For prepping ingredients
  • Aluminum foil: Optional, for grilling delicate items

Instructions

BBQ Veggie Skewers

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Thread the bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and mushrooms onto skewers, alternating for color and texture.
  3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until veggies are tender and lightly charred.
  5. Baste with BBQ sauce in the last 2-3 minutes of grilling.
  6. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter

  1. Combine softened butter, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Mix well.
  2. Brush corn with a little olive oil and grill over medium-high heat, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred (about 10 minutes).
  3. Remove from grill, slather with chili-lime butter, and serve immediately.

BBQ Portobello Mushroom Steaks

  1. Whisk together olive oil, BBQ sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Brush both sides of the mushroom caps with the marinade. Let sit for 10-15 minutes for maximum flavor.
  3. Grill mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade as needed, until tender and juicy.
  4. Slice and serve as steaks or in a sandwich.

Grilled Halloumi & Veggie Sandwiches

  1. Toss eggplant and bell pepper slices with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  2. Grill veggies for 3-4 minutes per side until soft and lightly charred.
  3. Grill halloumi slices for 2 minutes per side until golden and slightly melted.
  4. Assemble sandwiches: Layer grilled veggies and halloumi on buns, add fresh basil, and a spoonful of pesto if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Marinate Ahead: For deeper flavor, marinate veggies and mushrooms for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
  • Mix & Match: Swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables—try asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.
  • Go Vegan: Use vegan BBQ sauce and vegan cheese alternatives when needed.
  • Spice It Up: Add cayenne, smoked paprika, or chipotle powder to marinades for extra heat.
  • Make It a Meal: Serve grilled veggies with grains like quinoa or brown rice, or stuff them into pita pockets.
  • Use Leftovers: Chop up leftover grilled veggies for salads, pasta, or pizza toppings the next day.
  • Pair with Homemade Bread: Try your hand at a Green Chile Cheese Bread for a flavorful BBQ side!

“Vegetarian BBQ isn’t just an alternative—it’s a whole new way to experience the grill!”

Nutrition Facts

Recipe Calories Protein Fiber Fat Carbs
BBQ Veggie Skewers (per 2 skewers) 120 3g 4g 5g 18g
Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter (per ear) 150 3g 2g 6g 24g
BBQ Portobello Steaks (per cap) 95 4g 2g 7g 7g
Grilled Halloumi & Veggie Sandwich (per sandwich) 350 16g 3g 15g 36g

Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Mix and Match: Serve a platter with all four BBQ recipes alongside classic sides like potato salad, slaw, and fresh fruit.
  • DIY BBQ Bowls: Let guests build their own bowls with grains, greens, grilled veggies, and toppings like feta, avocado, or nuts.
  • Pair with Refreshing Drinks: Try a pitcher of homemade Green Goodness Juice for a vibrant, healthy pairing.
  • Add a Sweet Finish: Complete your cookout with a summery dessert such as Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce or fresh fruit skewers.
  • Sandwich Bar: Offer a selection of grilled veggies, cheeses, and sauces so everyone can craft their perfect sandwich.

Conclusion

Vegetarian BBQ recipes open up a world of flavor, color, and creative possibilities for your next cookout. With these easy, crowd-pleasing recipes, you’ll discover that the grill is just as much at home with juicy mushrooms, vibrant peppers, and hearty cheeses as it is with traditional meats.

Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a festive backyard bash, you’ll love how these vegetarian barbecue dishes bring everyone together around the fire.

Remember, the key to a memorable barbecue is not just what’s on the grill—it’s the laughter, the company, and the joy of sharing a meal. So fire up your grill, invite your favorite people, and savor the delicious journey of vegetarian barbecue.

Happy grilling!

More Vegetarian BBQ Recipes to Try

Ready to explore even more delicious vegetarian barbecue options? Here’s a listicle of creative, must-try recipes for your next cookout:

Grilled Stuffed Peppers

  • Halve and deseed bell peppers; stuff with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese.
  • Grill over indirect heat until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

  • Simmer canned jackfruit with onions, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce until tender. Shred and serve on buns with coleslaw.

Tandoori Cauliflower Steaks

  • Slice cauliflower into thick steaks, marinate in yogurt and tandoori spices, then grill until charred and tender.

Grilled Sweet Potato Planks

  • Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise, toss with olive oil and smoked paprika, and grill until caramelized and soft inside.

Vegan Sausage & Pepper Hoagies

  • Grill vegan sausages and sliced bell peppers, then pile into hoagie rolls with spicy mustard or vegan mayo.

Grilled Kohlrabi Steaks

  • Slice kohlrabi, brush with olive oil, and grill until golden. Top with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. (Try this recipe!)

Charred Romaine Salad

  • Halve romaine hearts, brush with olive oil, grill briefly, then top with shaved Parmesan, lemon, and a drizzle of Caesar dressing.

BBQ Tofu Skewers

  • Cube extra-firm tofu, marinate in BBQ sauce, and grill alongside veggies for a protein-packed skewer.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

  • Grill pineapple slices, then dice and toss with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime for a sweet-spicy salsa.

Vegan “Elote” Street Corn

  • Grill corn and slather with vegan mayo, lime, chili powder, and nutritional yeast for a plant-based spin on a classic favorite.

Let your creativity run wild—the grill is your playground! For even more vegetarian inspiration, check out these crowd-pleasing recipes: Kosher Vegetarian Recipes, Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe, and Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to round out your next barbecue feast.

📖 Recipe Card: Grilled Vegetable Skewers with BBQ Glaze

Description: Colorful vegetable skewers are brushed with a tangy BBQ glaze and grilled to perfection. A delicious and easy vegetarian barbecue recipe for any outdoor gathering.

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

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, stems trimmed
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (vegetarian)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes if using.
  3. In a large bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Thread vegetables onto skewers, alternating types for color.
  5. Brush skewers with half of the BBQ sauce.
  6. Grill skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  7. Brush with remaining BBQ sauce during the last 3 minutes of grilling.
  8. Serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 160 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 20 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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