There’s something magical about gathering around a grill, skewers in hand, and the aroma of smoky vegetables wafting through the air. BBQ veg kebabs are a celebration of color, flavor, and freshness—a perfect dish for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a lighter, vibrant option for their next cookout.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, or want to impress at a potluck, these kebabs deliver every time. With a medley of marinated veggies threaded onto skewers and charred to perfection, this recipe is simple but packed with zesty flavors.
If you’re new to grilling or a seasoned BBQ enthusiast, you’ll find this recipe approachable, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.
Plus, these kebabs are endlessly versatile. Use the vegetables you love, experiment with spices, or add a protein.
In a world where plant-based grilling is gaining momentum, this BBQ veg kebab recipe will become your go-to for smoky, juicy, and irresistible results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Colorful & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based goodness, these kebabs are as healthy as they are beautiful.
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple prep and quick grilling.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the spices, or add tofu, paneer, or tempeh for added protein.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for BBQs, picnics, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Naturally accommodating for many dietary needs.
- Delicious Leftovers: Great cold in salads, wraps, or sandwiches the next day.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 large |
| Yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 large |
| Zucchini, sliced into thick rounds | 1 medium |
| Red onion, cut into chunks | 1 large |
| Mushrooms, whole (button or cremini) | 8-10 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 10-12 |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp (or to taste) |
| Black pepper, freshly ground | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tbsp |
Equipment
- Grill (gas, charcoal, or indoor grill pan)
- Mixing bowls
- Skewers (metal or bamboo; soak bamboo in water for 30 minutes)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Basting brush (optional)
Instructions
-
Prep the Vegetables:
Wash and dry all the vegetables. Cut the bell peppers into 1-inch squares, slice the zucchini into thick rounds, chop the onion into chunks, and leave the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes whole.
Try to keep pieces similar in size for even cooking.
-
Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
-
Marinate the Veggies:
Add all the chopped vegetables to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well so every piece is coated.
Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Tip: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor. Overnight is even better if you have time!
-
Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
-
Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers, alternating colors and varieties for visual appeal. Don’t overcrowd—leave a little space between pieces for even charring.
-
Grill the Kebabs:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-14 minutes, rotating every 3-4 minutes so all sides get a nice char.
Baste with extra marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
Watch closely—the veggies should be lightly charred but not burnt. Adjust grilling time based on the heat and your veggie choices.
-
Serve:
Remove kebabs from the grill and transfer to a platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Serve hot with your favorite dips, sauces, or a squeeze of lemon.
Tips & Variations
- Add Protein: Thread cubes of paneer, tofu, or tempeh for a heartier kebab. Marinate them with the veggies for best flavor.
- Switch Up the Veggies: Try eggplant, baby corn, asparagus, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower florets. Use what’s in season or what you love most!
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of harissa to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Saucy Finish: Serve with tzatziki, chimichurri, vegan ranch, or a garlic yogurt dip for added flavor.
- Indoor Option: No grill? Use a grill pan on the stovetop or roast the skewers in the oven at 425°F for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Make-Ahead: Marinate veggies up to 24 hours ahead for easy entertaining.
Pro Tip: Try brushing the kebabs with a mixture of olive oil and maple syrup just before removing from the grill for a subtle, glossy finish!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 kebabs) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 240mg |
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the exact vegetables and quantities used.
Serving Suggestions
- With Grains: Serve kebabs over fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
- In Wraps: Stuff the veggies into a warm pita or flatbread with a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.
- As a Salad Topper: Remove veggies from the skewers and toss with greens, chickpeas, and a lemony vinaigrette.
- With Dips: Pair with hummus, baba ghanoush, or a spicy harissa dip for extra flavor.
- BBQ Feast: Make it a party with sides like Half Runner Beans Recipe, Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe, or finish on a sweet note with Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.
Conclusion
BBQ veg kebabs are more than just a dish—they’re an invitation to get creative with your favorite vegetables and make the most of grilling season. With their vivid colors, smoky flavors, and endless possibilities, they turn any meal into a festive occasion.
Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, a curious omnivore, or just looking for a way to eat more veggies, these kebabs deliver on taste and satisfaction.
Try this recipe at your next gathering and watch the skewers disappear! Don’t forget to experiment with different marinades and veggies to keep things exciting.
If you loved this BBQ veg kebab recipe, you might also enjoy exploring other plant-forward favorites like Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or a refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe for a nutritious finish to your meal.
Happy grilling and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: BBQ Veg Kebab
Description: Colorful vegetables marinated in spices and grilled to perfection on skewers. A delicious and healthy BBQ appetizer for all occasions.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup paneer, cubed
- 1/2 cup red onion, cut into large chunks
- 1/2 cup zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices.
- Add the vegetables and paneer to the marinade and toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Thread marinated veggies and paneer onto skewers alternately.
- Preheat BBQ grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or lemon wedges.
Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 14 g
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