Grilling isn’t just for meat—it’s the perfect way to cook up some seriously tasty vegetables. If you haven’t tried throwing some veggies on the BBQ yet, you’re missing out. The smoky char, the crispy edges, and the intense flavours that come from grilling make vegetables more exciting than you could ever imagine. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ pro or just looking to change things up, here’s why vegetables belong on the grill.
1. Unmatched Flavour
One of the main reasons to BBQ your vegetables is the flavour. When you cook over an open flame, something magical happens. The heat chars the outside, locking in the natural sweetness and creating a smoky, caramelised crust. Grilled vegetables often have a depth of flavour that you just can’t get from roasting or steaming. Here’s what happens:
2. Quick and Easy to Cook
Grilling vegetables is straightforward and fast—perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without a lot of hassle. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal BBQ, the process is pretty simple:
- Prep Time: Most vegetables just need a little oil, seasoning, and maybe a few minutes of marinating.
- Cook Time: Vegetables cook quickly on the BBQ, with many taking just 5-10 minutes to get that perfect texture. No long waits like you might have with meat.
Plus, you can grill your veggies alongside your steak, sausages, or burgers, saving time and effort.
3. Perfect for Every BBQ
If you’re already cooking up a storm with burgers, steaks, and sausages, then it’s time to add some veggies to the mix. Grilled vegetables are the perfect accompaniment to any BBQ spread. Here’s why:
- Great Side Dishes: Vegetables like corn on the cob, sweet potatoes, and asparagus are perfect as sides. They’re filling, healthy, and full of flavour.
- Vegan or Vegetarian Guests: If you’ve got friends or family who prefer a plant-based diet, grilling vegetables ensures there’s something for everyone. You can even make veggie kebabs for a fun, interactive meal.
4. Healthy and Nutritious
We all know that vegetables are good for us, but grilling them actually makes them even better. Here’s how:
- Retains Nutrients: Unlike boiling, which can cause some nutrients to leach out, grilling helps vegetables retain their vitamins and minerals.
- Low in Fat: Most vegetables are naturally low in fat, and grilling them with just a small amount of olive oil keeps them light and healthy.
5. Easy to Experiment With Flavours
When it comes to grilling vegetables, the flavour possibilities are endless. You can keep things simple or get creative with marinades, rubs, and seasonings. Here are a few ways to mix it up:
- Herbs and Spices: A sprinkle of rosemary, thyme, or paprika can add depth to your veggies.
- Marinades: Olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and balsamic vinegar make an easy marinade that’ll bring out the natural sweetness in veggies.
- Cheese and Sauces: Top your grilled veggies with a little grated parmesan, crumbled feta, or drizzle with pesto for an extra burst of flavour.
- Kebabs: Thread your favourite vegetables (and maybe some halloumi cheese) onto skewers for easy grilling and even easier serving.
No matter what time of year it is, there’s always a vegetable that will taste amazing on the grill.
What to Grill? Some Top Veggie Picks
- Peppers: Bell peppers are fantastic on the grill. The skin chars beautifully, and the sweetness intensifies.
- Asparagus: Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill for a few minutes. Simple and delicious.
- Mushrooms: Large portobello mushrooms are great for grilling—tender with a lovely smoky flavour.
- Corn on the Cob: Wrap in foil and toss on the grill. The smoky flavour is unbeatable.
- Sweet Potatoes: Slice into thick wedges, season, and grill. Sweet, smoky, and crispy.
If you’re not yet grilling your vegetables, now’s the time to start. With minimal effort, you can create a side dish that’s bursting with flavour and nutrition. Whether you’re having a BBQ with the lads or a family get-together, grilled vegetables add a delicious and healthy touch to any meal.
So next time you fire up the BBQ, don’t forget to throw some veggies on there. You’ll be amazed at how tasty, satisfying, and easy it is. Give it a go, and take your BBQ game to a whole new level!
