Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers

Name: Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 8 cherry tomatoes; 8 mushrooms, halved; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love making Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers, especially during the warmer months when I can fire up the grill. The colorful array of vegetables, soaked in a flavorful marinade, transforms into a smoky and slightly charred treat that you simply can't resist. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully as a hearty appetizer or a light main course, and I always find myself experimenting with different combinations of veggies and herbs to elevate the flavors. Join me in this culinary adventure that brings out the best of fresh produce!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:50:28.482Z

The first time I made these skewers, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a delightful dish. I started by mixing olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a variety of herbs to marinate the veggies, and within minutes, I had a vibrant mixture ready to go. After letting them soak up those flavors for about 15 minutes, I placed them on the grill, and the aroma was absolutely intoxicating.

What I love most about these skewers is their adaptability. I've tried various vegetable combinations, from bell peppers to zucchini, and each time they come out delicious thanks to the marinade. A small tip: let the skewers sit just a bit longer in the marinade for an even deeper flavor. Enjoying them right off the grill is sheer bliss!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The vibrant colors and flavors make every bite exciting.
Healthy and packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables.
Perfect for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners.

Selecting the Best Vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables is crucial for achieving the perfect flavors and textures in your Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers. Opt for vegetables that hold up well on the grill, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. These produce a delightful char while retaining their juicy essence. Try to pick organic where possible, as they tend to be fresher and more flavorful. Additionally, consider seasonal vegetables like asparagus or eggplant, as these can add both novelty and richness to your dish.

Make sure to cut your veggies into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents smaller pieces from charring too quickly. For larger vegetables, like zucchini, cut thicker slices or quarters, while bell peppers and onions can be chopped into 1-2 inch chunks. If you're pressing for time, you can also use pre-cut veggies from the grocery store, but nothing beats the freshness of cutting them yourself. Remember, the goal is a mix of flavors and textures that complement each other on the skewer.

Perfecting Your Marinade

The marinade is the heart of these skewers, providing depth and flavor. It’s essential to whisk the marinade ingredients together until they’ve emulsified, creating a glossy texture that will coat the vegetables evenly. If you want to experiment, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, which can enhance the overall freshness of your dish. Remember to allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 15 minutes; this time lets the flavors penetrate deeper.

If you're looking to customize your marinade, try swapping the balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate flavors of the vegetables; balance is key. Additionally, be mindful of salt when seasoning your marinade, as some ingredients, like soy sauce, can add more saltiness than you expect. Taste as you go to find your perfect flavor balance.

Grilling Techniques and Serving Suggestions

Grilling is an art that, when done right, brings out the smokiness in your vegetables and adds that irresistible char. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F to 450°F, and make sure to clean the grates thoroughly for a nice non-stick surface. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Grill your skewers for about 6-8 minutes, rotating occasionally until you see golden-brown char marks, which indicates perfect cooking.

For serving, consider pairing your Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers with a side of quinoa salad or a refreshing yogurt dip, which complements the smoky flavors beautifully. Don't hesitate to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an added burst of flavor. These skewers are also great as leftovers—just reheat them lightly on the grill for a quick meal prep option. Storing them in an airtight container in the fridge extends their life for up to 3 days.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your skewers:

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
8 cherry tomatoes
8 mushrooms, halved

Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to soak your wooden skewers in water if you are using them, to prevent burning on the grill.

Instructions

Let's get grilling! Follow these easy steps:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Vegetables

Add chopped vegetables to the marinade and toss well to coat. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Skewer the Vegetables

Thread the marinated veggies onto skewers, alternating between different types for a colorful presentation.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until veggies are charred and tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the grill, let cool slightly, and enjoy your delicious Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers!

These skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the marinade just before grilling.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to tailor this recipe to suit dietary preferences or simply use what you have on hand, there are plenty of vegetable substitutes. For instance, bell peppers can be replaced with sweet corn or eggplant, which can add a different texture. Broccoli florets or even cubed firm tofu can also stand in perfectly, creating a heartier option for plant-based lovers. Don’t shy away from adding fruits too—pineapple chunks can introduce a sweet contrast that works beautifully on the grill.

For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or marinated artichoke hearts to your skewers. If you're catering to a gluten-free audience, ensure that any added sauces are certified gluten-free to keep everyone safe. Remember, the beauty of veggie skewers lies in their versatility—mix and match to discover your favorite combinations that align with your taste and nutritional needs.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Making your Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers ahead of time can save you grilling time on busy weeknights. You can marinate the vegetables a few hours in advance—just ensure you store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you're meal-prepping for a barbecue, you can assemble the skewers the night before. Just cover them with plastic wrap and keep them chilled until it's time to grill, ensuring you season them just before cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors.

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use these grilled veggies in salads, sandwiches, or even as a topping for pizzas. To reheat, simply toss them back on the grill for a few minutes to revive their charred goodness, or sauté them in a pan for a quick warm-up to preserve those fantastic flavors.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when grilling veggie skewers is overcooking, which leads to mushy veggies. To avoid this, ensure your vegetables are cut into uniform sizes and keep a close eye on them as they grill. The ideal cooking time is around 6-8 minutes, but this can vary depending on your grill's heat level and the size of the vegetable pieces. Always use a pair of tongs to turn them gently, which prevents them from breaking apart.

If you find that your vegetables are not charred enough, you might not have preheated your grill adequately. Another trick is to brush the skewers lightly with oil before grilling to promote browning. In the rare case that your skewers are sticking to the grill, consider using a grill basket or grilling mat to make the flipping easier and maintain their integrity, especially for those smaller pieces.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

→ How long can I marinate the vegetables?

You can marinate them for up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F and roast the skewers for about 15-20 minutes.

→ What can I serve with these veggie skewers?

They pair perfectly with a side salad, rice, or grain bowls for a complete meal.