Healthy Dinner Grilled Veggie Plate
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love creating vibrant and healthy meals, and this Grilled Veggie Plate is one of my favorites. It's a colorful combination of fresh vegetables that are grilled to perfection, enhancing their natural flavors. I often serve it on busy weeknights as a light yet fulfilling dinner option that leaves me feeling energized. With a blend of olive oil, herbs, and a sprinkle of seasoning, this dish not only satisfies my cravings but also helps meet my daily veggie intake. It’s an easy go-to for anyone looking to eat healthier!
When experimenting with grilling vegetables, I discovered that marinating them beforehand truly elevates the flavor. I often create a quick marinade with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and my favorite herbs, allowing the veggies to soak up all that goodness. During grilling, the caramelization adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky charred edges.
One of my best tips is to use seasonal vegetables for an even better taste. In summer, zucchini and bell peppers shine, while in fall, squash and root veggies bring their own unique flavors to the table. I love serving this plate with a drizzle of tahini sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect blend of smoky and fresh flavors
- Colorful presentation that impresses at any gathering
- Quick and easy preparation ideal for busy nights
Choosing the Right Vegetables
Selecting the right mix of vegetables can elevate your Grilled Veggie Plate. I recommend using fresh, seasonal produce for the best flavor and texture. Zucchini and bell peppers are excellent choices as they grill beautifully and become tender without losing structure. For added variety, consider integrating seasonal vegetables like asparagus or eggplant, which can be grilled alongside the others for a delightful twist.
Don’t shy away from experimenting with different types of onion, such as sweet or white, for a contrasting flavor. Additionally, incorporating a handful of mushrooms can provide an earthy depth that complements the overall dish. Just be sure to cut your veggies into similar sizes for even cooking on the grill, ideally around 1-inch pieces.
Grilling Technique Tips
To achieve perfect grill marks and a smoky flavor, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the vegetables on it. For gas grills, give it at least 10-15 minutes to heat up. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are white-hot. This high temperature not only chars the vegetables nicely but also locks in their juices, enhancing the overall flavor.
Flip the vegetables only once during grilling to avoid losing moisture. You’ll know they’re ready to turn when they easily lift from the grill grates and have visible grill marks, around 5-7 minutes per side. If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to leave them on the grill a bit longer, just be cautious not to overcook, as they can quickly become mushy.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Grilled Vegetables
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
Marinate the Vegetables
Add the sliced zucchinis, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Preheat the Grill
While the vegetables are marinating, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the Vegetables
Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled veggies from the grill and serve hot. Enjoy as a side or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover grilled vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They make a wonderful addition to salads, omelets, or sandwiches. To keep them flavorful, try not to overcook them initially; they’ll retain better texture during reheating. If you want to add a bit more moisture, a light drizzle of olive oil before reheating can help rejuvenate them.
For longer storage, consider freezing the grilled veggies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them gently on the stovetop to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Veggie Plate can be served in numerous ways. For a quick meal, serve the vegetables over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which adds a wholesome grain component. You can also top it with feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and flavor contrast.
To add a refreshing twist, try garnishing the grilled veggies with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This not only brightens the flavors but also introduces a refreshing element that balances the smoky notes of the grilled veggies beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with any seasonal vegetables you prefer.
→ How long can I store the grilled veggies?
You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses only vegetables and olive oil.
→ What should I serve with this grilled veggie plate?
It pairs well with grains like quinoa or brown rice, and also makes a great addition to tacos or wraps.
Healthy Dinner Grilled Veggie Plate
I absolutely love creating vibrant and healthy meals, and this Grilled Veggie Plate is one of my favorites. It's a colorful combination of fresh vegetables that are grilled to perfection, enhancing their natural flavors. I often serve it on busy weeknights as a light yet fulfilling dinner option that leaves me feeling energized. With a blend of olive oil, herbs, and a sprinkle of seasoning, this dish not only satisfies my cravings but also helps meet my daily veggie intake. It’s an easy go-to for anyone looking to eat healthier!
Created by: Lydia Spencer
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Grilled Vegetables
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
Add the sliced zucchinis, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
While the vegetables are marinating, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
Remove the grilled veggies from the grill and serve hot. Enjoy as a side or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g