Name: Herb Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds; 1 bell pepper cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole; 1 cup mushrooms, halved; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced finely; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper; optional fresh herbs for garnishing; as needed skewers (soaked wooden or sturdy metal)

Get ready to brighten up your summer meals with my Herb Grilled Vegetable Skewers! This simple dish bursts with flavor and can be loved by everyone. I’ll guide you through choosing the best veggies, making a tasty marinade, and grilling techniques to get that perfect char. Let's dive in and create a delicious dish that is easy enough for any day of the week!

$- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds - 1 bell pepper (any color: red, yellow, or green), cut into bite-sized chunks - 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole - 1 cup mushrooms, halved (button or cremini work well) These vegetables add color and flavor. You can mix and match based on what you like. Zucchini is mild and absorbs the marinade well. Bell peppers bring sweetness. Red onion adds a sharp bite. Cherry tomatoes burst with juice. Mushrooms provide a nice earthiness. - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced finely - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste The marinade is key to great flavor. Olive oil keeps things moist and adds richness. Garlic gives a lovely aroma. Dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil bring depth. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Mix them well to coat every vegetable. - Wooden vs. Metal - Soaking Requirements You can use wooden or metal skewers. Wooden skewers are lighter and cheaper but need soaking. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This stops them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and easy to handle. They do not require soaking. Choose what works best for you! {{ingredient_image_2}} Soaking Wooden Skewers Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning on the grill. If you skip this step, you risk charred skewers. Safety Tips for Grilling Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling. Make sure your grill is stable and away from flammable items. Use long-handled tools to avoid burns. Combining Ingredients In a big bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper. Whisk until it is well combined. This marinade adds great flavor to your veggies. Importance of Marinating Times Let the veggies sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes. This time allows them to soak up all the tasty flavors. If you marinate too long, they may get too soft. Threading Vegetables on Skewers Carefully thread the marinated veggies on the soaked skewers. Alternate the colors for a pretty look. This not only makes them attractive but also helps them cook evenly. Grilling Time and Temperature Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes. Turn them often for even cooking. You'll know they are done when they are tender and have nice grill marks. Temperature Management To get great grill marks, set your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the veggies. Make sure it is hot enough before adding the skewers. If the grill is too cool, the veggies will steam instead of grill. That means no nice marks! Turning the Skewers Turn the skewers every few minutes. This helps cook them evenly and gives you those perfect grill marks. Use tongs for safe handling. If you see the veggies starting to brown, it’s time to turn! Additional Herbs and Spices You can add more flavor with fresh herbs or spices. Try rosemary, cilantro, or even a pinch of chili flakes for heat. Fresh herbs can give a bright taste. Mix and match to find your favorite combos. Marinating Time Recommendations Let the vegetables marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This is key for great flavor. If you have more time, letting them sit longer will deepen the taste even more. Just don’t go overboard, or the veggies may get too soft. Garnishing Options For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh herbs on top when serving. Chopped parsley or basil works wonderfully. You can also add some lemon zest for brightness. These small touches make a big difference! Complementary Dipping Sauces Serve your skewers with tasty dips. A tangy yogurt sauce or balsamic glaze pairs well. These dips can enhance the flavors of the grilled veggies. Set them on the table for a fun way to enjoy your meal! Pro Tips Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Selecting vegetables that are in season will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure freshness and optimal texture for grilling. Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to mix up the herbs and spices in your marinade. Adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can brighten up the flavors even more. Keep Skewers Moist: If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling will prevent them from burning and ensure they hold the vegetables securely. Don't Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between the vegetables on the skewers to allow for even cooking and to achieve those beautiful grill marks. {{image_4}} You can mix and match veggies for your skewers. Use what's fresh and in season. Some great options include: - Eggplant - Asparagus - Carrots - Sweet corn These veggies add new flavors and colors to your dish. You can even add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. Switching up your marinade can change the taste. Fresh herbs work well. Try basil, parsley, or cilantro. You can also use different oils. Instead of olive oil, try avocado or sesame oil. Each oil gives a unique flavor to the veggies. You can make these skewers in several ways. If you don’t have a grill, try baking them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes. Stovetop grilling is another option. Use a grill pan on medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning often. This method gives you nice grill marks and keeps the veggies tender. After you enjoy your herb grilled vegetable skewers, you might have leftovers. To store them, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can keep the skewers in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain their taste and texture, avoid stacking them too tightly. If you can, store each skewer flat. This helps prevent squishing and keeps the veggies looking good. You can freeze your vegetable skewers as well. For best results, freeze them before grilling. Just place the marinated skewers on a baking sheet. Then, put them in the freezer until they are solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. If you freeze them after grilling, allow them to cool first. This prevents ice crystals from forming. You can store them in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, move the skewers to the fridge overnight. For faster results, you can use the microwave on the defrost setting. When you want to enjoy your skewers again, reheating them is simple. The best way to do this is in an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This helps keep them moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. Check to ensure they are hot all the way through. Another option is using a grill or stovetop. Just warm them on low heat, turning often. This keeps the flavors intact and avoids drying them out. Yes, you can! Feel free to mix and match. Here are some great options: - Bell peppers (any color) - Zucchini or yellow squash - Red or yellow onion - Cherry or grape tomatoes - Mushrooms (button or portobello) - Eggplant, cut into cubes - Asparagus or green beans These choices add color and flavor to your skewers. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Soaking also allows them to hold moisture. This way, they cook the veggies evenly without catching fire. Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time. Here are some tips: - Marinate the veggies a few hours before grilling. - Assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge. - Grill them fresh when ready to serve. This saves time and lets the flavors develop. Enjoy making this tasty dish! This blog post covered how to create delicious vegetable skewers. You learned about key ingredients, from veggies to marinades, and how to prepare and grill them. I shared tips for perfect grilling as well as variations to keep your skewers fresh and exciting. Don’t forget about safe storage and reheating methods for leftovers. Enjoying these tasty skewers is simple and fun. I hope you feel inspired to try them out with your favorite veggies. Happy grilling!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Vibrant Colors: The combination of colorful vegetables makes these skewers visually appealing and perfect for any gathering.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, anyone can whip these up for a quick meal or BBQ side.
Flavorful Marinade: The blend of herbs and garlic in the marinade infuses the vegetables with delicious flavors that are hard to resist.
Healthy and Nutritious: These skewers are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Ingredients

List of Vegetables

1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 bell pepper (any color: red, yellow, or green), cut into bite-sized chunks
1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole
1 cup mushrooms, halved (button or cremini work well)

These vegetables add color and flavor. You can mix and match based on what you like. Zucchini is mild and absorbs the marinade well. Bell peppers bring sweetness. Red onion adds a sharp bite. Cherry tomatoes burst with juice. Mushrooms provide a nice earthiness.

Seasoning and Marinade

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced finely
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

The marinade is key to great flavor. Olive oil keeps things moist and adds richness. Garlic gives a lovely aroma. Dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil bring depth. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Mix them well to coat every vegetable.

Skewers

Wooden vs. Metal
Soaking Requirements

You can use wooden or metal skewers. Wooden skewers are lighter and cheaper but need soaking. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This stops them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and easy to handle. They do not require soaking. Choose what works best for you!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Skewers

Soaking Wooden Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning on the grill. If you skip this step, you risk charred skewers.

Safety Tips for Grilling

Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling. Make sure your grill is stable and away from flammable items. Use long-handled tools to avoid burns.

Making the Marinade

Combining Ingredients

In a big bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper. Whisk until it is well combined. This marinade adds great flavor to your veggies.

Importance of Marinating Times

Let the veggies sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes. This time allows them to soak up all the tasty flavors. If you marinate too long, they may get too soft.

Assembling and Grilling

Threading Vegetables on Skewers

Carefully thread the marinated veggies on the soaked skewers. Alternate the colors for a pretty look. This not only makes them attractive but also helps them cook evenly.

Grilling Time and Temperature

Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes. Turn them often for even cooking. You'll know they are done when they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Grill Marks

Temperature Management

To get great grill marks, set your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the veggies. Make sure it is hot enough before adding the skewers. If the grill is too cool, the veggies will steam instead of grill. That means no nice marks!

Turning the Skewers

Turn the skewers every few minutes. This helps cook them evenly and gives you those perfect grill marks. Use tongs for safe handling. If you see the veggies starting to brown, it’s time to turn!

Flavor Enhancements

Additional Herbs and Spices

You can add more flavor with fresh herbs or spices. Try rosemary, cilantro, or even a pinch of chili flakes for heat. Fresh herbs can give a bright taste. Mix and match to find your favorite combos.

Marinating Time Recommendations

Let the vegetables marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This is key for great flavor. If you have more time, letting them sit longer will deepen the taste even more. Just don’t go overboard, or the veggies may get too soft.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing Options

For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh herbs on top when serving. Chopped parsley or basil works wonderfully. You can also add some lemon zest for brightness. These small touches make a big difference!

Complementary Dipping Sauces

Serve your skewers with tasty dips. A tangy yogurt sauce or balsamic glaze pairs well. These dips can enhance the flavors of the grilled veggies. Set them on the table for a fun way to enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Selecting vegetables that are in season will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure freshness and optimal texture for grilling.
Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to mix up the herbs and spices in your marinade. Adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can brighten up the flavors even more.
Keep Skewers Moist: If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling will prevent them from burning and ensure they hold the vegetables securely.
Don't Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between the vegetables on the skewers to allow for even cooking and to achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Variations

Different Vegetable Combinations

You can mix and match veggies for your skewers. Use what's fresh and in season. Some great options include:

Eggplant
Asparagus
Carrots
Sweet corn

These veggies add new flavors and colors to your dish. You can even add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

Marinade Alternatives

Switching up your marinade can change the taste. Fresh herbs work well. Try basil, parsley, or cilantro.

You can also use different oils. Instead of olive oil, try avocado or sesame oil. Each oil gives a unique flavor to the veggies.

Cooking Methods

You can make these skewers in several ways. If you don’t have a grill, try baking them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes.

Stovetop grilling is another option. Use a grill pan on medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning often. This method gives you nice grill marks and keeps the veggies tender.

Storage Information

Refrigeration

After you enjoy your herb grilled vegetable skewers, you might have leftovers. To store them, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can keep the skewers in the fridge for up to three days.

To maintain their taste and texture, avoid stacking them too tightly. If you can, store each skewer flat. This helps prevent squishing and keeps the veggies looking good.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze your vegetable skewers as well. For best results, freeze them before grilling. Just place the marinated skewers on a baking sheet. Then, put them in the freezer until they are solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag.

If you freeze them after grilling, allow them to cool first. This prevents ice crystals from forming. You can store them in the freezer for up to three months.

To thaw, move the skewers to the fridge overnight. For faster results, you can use the microwave on the defrost setting.

Reheating Recommendations

When you want to enjoy your skewers again, reheating them is simple. The best way to do this is in an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This helps keep them moist.

Heat for about 10 minutes. Check to ensure they are hot all the way through. Another option is using a grill or stovetop. Just warm them on low heat, turning often. This keeps the flavors intact and avoids drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables for skewers?

Yes, you can! Feel free to mix and match. Here are some great options:

Bell peppers (any color)
Zucchini or yellow squash
Red or yellow onion
Cherry or grape tomatoes
Mushrooms (button or portobello)
Eggplant, cut into cubes
Asparagus or green beans

These choices add color and flavor to your skewers.

How long should I soak wooden skewers?

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Soaking also allows them to hold moisture. This way, they cook the veggies evenly without catching fire.

Can these skewers be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time. Here are some tips:

Marinate the veggies a few hours before grilling.
Assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge.
Grill them fresh when ready to serve.

This saves time and lets the flavors develop. Enjoy making this tasty dish!

This blog post covered how to create delicious vegetable skewers. You learned about key ingredients, from veggies to marinades, and how to prepare and grill them. I shared tips for perfect grilling as well as variations to keep your skewers fresh and exciting. Don’t forget about safe storage and reheating methods for leftovers. Enjoying these tasty skewers is simple and fun. I hope you feel inspired to try them out with your favorite veggies. Happy grillin

Herb Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Delicious and colorful vegetable skewers marinated in herbs and grilled to perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 bell pepper cut into bite-sized chunks
1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole
1 cup mushrooms, halved
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced finely
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
optional fresh herbs for garnishing
as needed skewers (soaked wooden or sturdy metal)

Instructions

If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for a minimum of 30 minutes to prevent them from catching fire on the grill.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add the sliced zucchini, bell pepper chunks, red onion wedges, whole cherry tomatoes, and halved mushrooms to the bowl containing the marinade. Gently toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated. Allow them to marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
While the vegetables are marinating, heat your grill to medium-high.
Carefully thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the types to create a vibrant arrangement.
Once the grill is ready, place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until the vegetables are tender and display grill marks.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs on top of the skewers.

Notes

Serve with a side of dipping sauce for added flavor.

Keyword grilled vegetables, herb marinade, vegetable skewers

Herb Grilled Vegetable Skewers Tasty and Simple Dish

Why I Love This Recipe