The best vegetables for grilling range from corn and asparagus to mushrooms, tomatoes, zucchini, and more!
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a perfectly charred vegetable. If you’re trying to eat healthier or simply looking for new ideas, vegetables are an excellent option.
But not all vegetables are created equal when it comes to grilling. Some hold up better and absorb more flavor than others. The last thing you want is your veggies falling apart and slipping through the grill grates!
From sweet corn to eggplant, I’ve rounded up the best vegetables to throw on the grill. Let’s take your cookouts to the next level, shall we?
Best Vegetables for Grilling
1. Corn
As someone who loves to grill, I can confidently say that corn on the cob is a must-have. It’s a crowd-pleaser and is incredibly easy to prepare.
When grilled to perfection, the corn’s natural sweetness is intensified. This creates a delicious flavor. It simply cannot be replicated!
Plus, grilling corn allows you to add a smoky dimension to the dish. You can’t achieve that through other cooking methods.
2. Asparagus
Asparagus has a unique flavor and texture. And grilling is the best way to highlight these flavors and add a bit of sweetness.
When you grill asparagus, it becomes tender with a slightly smoky and charred taste. This always adds an extra level of depth to any dish.
Grilled asparagus is delicious, and so healthy, too! It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to cook on the grill.
3. Mushrooms
For extra flavor and texture in grilled dishes, turn to mushrooms. There’s something special about their earthy flavor and meaty texture. They always add extra oomph to any dish.
Mushrooms are also incredibly versatile. They can be simply seasoned and grilled on their own.
They’re also incredibly healthy. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
4. Eggplant
Eggplant is another veggie that easily stands up to the heat of the grill! It’s a versatile vegetable and can be flavored in a variety of different ways. It’s also a great substitute for meat in vegetarian dishes.
Grill it with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and top it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a real treat. You can also slice it up and add it to a salad for a flavorful crunch.
5. Tomatoes
Grilling tomatoes is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this summer favorite.
Tomatoes are packed with lycopene. It’s a powerful antioxidant and can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
The unique smoky flavor of grilled tomatoes adds depth to all dishes. Include it in salads, pastas, pizzas, sandwiches, and more.
Plus, tomatoes are incredibly simple to prepare. Just slice them in half and brush them with olive oil, then them season with salt and pepper.
6. Zucchini
Zucchini is another veggie winner for the grill. Brush slices of zucchini with oil before grilling them to give them a nice flavor. Season them with salt and pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices you like.
Grill the slices for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re lightly charred and tender. To make a delicious meal, add grilled zucchini to tacos, salads, or pasta dishes.
7. Peppers
Grilling peppers is a great way to bring out their flavor and make them more enjoyable. Cooked on the grill, peppers become tender, yet still retain their crunchy texture.
To add even more flavor, top them with butter, herbs, or olive oil. No matter how you choose to serve them, grilled peppers will tantalize your tastebuds!
8. Broccoli
When cooked on the grill, broccoli takes on a smoky taste. It’s so easy to prepare, too.
Lightly brush it with olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper on top before grilling. Char it for about 5 minutes per side or until the desired doneness is achieved. The result is tender, juicy florets packed with flavor.
Serve grilled broccoli as a side dish or enjoy it as a standalone meal. Top it with your favorite sauce or cheese for a little something extra!
9. Cauliflower
Grilling cauliflower is a great way to enjoy the nutritious vegetable.
It brings out the natural sweetness. And grilling gives cauliflower an amazing smoky flavor, too. It just can’t be replicated in the oven or on the stovetop.
You can grill chunks of cauliflower, whole heads, or even florets on skewers. They’re all delicious!
10. Onions
Onions have a sweet, mild flavor that’s accentuated by the grill. Slice them thick or thin, depending on how you want them to taste.
Keeping them thicker gives them more substance and texture when grilled.
11. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are another strong contender for grilling. It makes them even tastier! Plus, it’s a great way to trick kids into getting their daily dose of greens.
Toss Brussels sprouts in some olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder and pop them on the grill. Once they’re done, serve them with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra zest.
12. Carrots
Carrots are naturally sweet. So when they’re cooked over an open flame, the sugars caramelize. This creates an even sweeter taste.
Grilled carrots can be served as a side dish or included in stir-fries and salads.
To grill carrots, cut them into thick slices (about 1/2 inch). Then, place them on the preheated grill for about 8 minutes. Grill them until they’ve developed charred edges and become tender.
You can also season them with garlic, herbs, or spices before serving. Enjoy!
13. Romaine Lettuce
Grilled romaine lettuce retains its crisp texture on the outside, while the heat gently wilts the inner leaves. This gives it a delightful contrast. The grilling process also brings out the natural sweetness of the lettuce.
Drizzle the grilled romaine with a tangy dressing, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a creamy Caesar.
Another option is to use the grilled romaine as a base for toppings. Add grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a balsamic glaze.
Tips for the Best Grilled Vegetables
- Preheat and oil the grill: Be sure your grill is pre-heated to medium-high heat before adding the vegetables. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and help achieve those desirable grill marks.
- Cut vegetables into even sizes: To ensure even cooking, cut your vegetables into similar-sized pieces. This will allow them to cook at the same rate and prevent some pieces from becoming overcooked or undercooked.
- Marinate or season the vegetables: Enhance the flavor of your grilled vegetables by marinating them beforehand. Use a simple marinade of olive oil, herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Sprinkle your vegetables with your favorite seasoning blend before grilling.
- Use skewers or grill baskets: To prevent small or thin vegetables from falling through the grill grates, use skewers or use a grill basket. This will make flipping and handling the vegetables much easier.
- Cook them with the right technique: Place the vegetables directly on the grill grates or in the grill basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Grill them until they’re slightly charred and tender, flipping them occasionally for even cooking. The cooking time will vary depending on the vegetables and their size. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcook them: Grilled vegetables are best when they retain some crispness and texture. Avoid overcooking them to the point of being too soft. Aim for vegetables that are cooked but still have a slight bite to them.
- Serve them immediately: Grilled vegetables are at their best when served hot off the grill. Enjoy them as a side dish, add them to salads, or use them as a delicious topping for sandwiches or wraps.
13 Best Vegetables for Grilling That Hold Up to the Heat
Zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, eggplant, and corn are some of the best vegetables for grilling. All stand up well against the heat!
Ingredients
Corn
Asparagus
Mushrooms
Eggplant
Tomatoes
Zucchini
Peppers
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Onions
Brussels Sprouts
Carrots
Romain Lettuce
Instructions
- Select your favorite vegetables.
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep a delicious grilled meal in 30 minutes or less!
