These Easy Grilled Vegetable Skewers are colorful and tasty! Packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, they make the perfect summer treat.
Not only are they simple to make, but they also add a fun twist to your barbecue. I love tossing these on the grill and watching everyone enjoy the deliciousness! 🌶️🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This veggie adds a mild flavor and soft texture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash for a similar taste and texture. You might also try eggplant, but it will have a different flavor.
Bell Pepper: Use red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness. If these aren’t available, try green bell peppers or even cubed butternut squash for a fun twist. My favorite is red for its natural sweetness!
Red Onion: Red onions have a nice sharpness that mellows when grilled. If you want less bite, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions for a milder flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of juice and sweetness! If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work well too. Regular tomatoes, cut into larger chunks, can be used, but keep in mind they might break apart more easily.
Mushrooms: I love using button mushrooms, but feel free to substitute portobello or cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor. Just slice portobellos; they’re a bit larger.
Potato: Potatoes add heartiness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using sweet potatoes or even cubed carrots for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Skewers for Grilling?
Getting your skewers ready is key for a successful grill! If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning while cooking. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
- Soak wooden skewers in water; this helps them last on the grill.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This ensures even cooking.
- Start threading your veggies on the skewers. Mixing different vegetables not only looks great but also adds diverse flavors.
- Leave a little space between pieces on the skewer to allow heat to circulate.
How to Make Easy Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mushrooms, whole or halved
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cut into cubes
Seasoning and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers:
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
The preparation takes about 15 minutes, and you’ll need to soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes if you use them. Grilling takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes. All together, expect about 1 hour to enjoy these delicious vegetable skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, place them in a bowl of water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Get the Grill Ready:
While the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium heat. This ensures that your vegetables will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
3. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, gather the sliced zucchini, bell pepper chunks, red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes, whole or halved mushrooms, and potato cubes. Combine them all generously for a colorful veggie mix.
4. Season the Veggies:
Drizzle the olive oil over the mixed vegetables. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, to taste. Toss everything together gently until the veggies are fully coated with the oil and seasoning.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to thread the vegetables onto the skewers! Alternate the types of vegetables to create a vibrant presentation. For example, you can start with a potato cube, followed by a cherry tomato, then some zucchini, and keep going until the skewer is filled. It’s fun to create your own pattern!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the assembled skewers on your preheated grill. Cook them for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’re looking for the veggies to become tender and have a nice char on the outside.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Let them cool for a moment. Then, serve warm as a tasty side dish or a delightful appetizer. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for These Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Harder vegetables, like carrots, may need a bit of pre-cooking to soften them up.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Vegetable Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave, making sure not to overcook them to maintain their texture.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. For best results, avoid adding olive oil and seasoning until just before grilling to prevent sogginess.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Vegetable Skewers?
These skewers are fantastic on their own or served with a dip like tzatziki or hummus. They also make a great accompaniment to grilled meats, or you can toss them into a salad for added color and flavor!
