When you think ‘grill’, do you think burgers and hotdogs? Grilling is a staple of any carefree summer weekend, and vegetables are an easy, delicious addition. Keep your guests impressed this summer by learning the most efficient ways to cook vegetables on the grill.
Any vegetable can be cooked on the grill. Depending on the type of vegetable you are cooking, and the result you desire, you will need to decide what method to use. Vegetables can be cooked directly on the grill, in a vegetable basket, wrapped up in foil, or arranged on a skewer. Either way, vegetables have their own wonderful tastes, and do not require much else than a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Directly on the Grill
Grilling vegetables directly on the grates gives vegetables succulent grill lines that will add summertime ambiance to your backyard barbeque. If you are going to put vegetables on the grill grates, be sure that they will not fall through as they cook and become softer. When preparing, cut vegetables at least ¼ of an inch thick. Vegetables suitable for cooking right on the grill are thick slices of eggplant, thick slices of portabella mushrooms, and thick strips of zucchini.
Vegetable Basket
Vegetable baskets make grilling super easy. Vegetable baskets are great for smaller vegetables, such as broccoli florets, but just about any vegetables can be cut into medium size cubes, marinated, piled in the basket, and grilled. Be sure to not fill the basket too high though, as you will need to toss the vegetables to ensure even cooking.
Foil
Vegetables that do well in foil are any vegetable that you would normally roast inside your oven. Potatoes and corn do well in foil, and if you do not have a vegetable basket, foil is an easy alternative for grilling smaller size vegetables. Add onions, or even garlic chunks to your foil pockets to create mouth-watering flavors.
Skewers
Vegetable skewers are a great summertime option. Skewers enable you to prepare a variety of grilled vegetables on one, easy to serve skewer. Cut up a variety of vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes, onions, and zucchini. Skewers can even be customized and assembled on the spot by your guests. Put vegetable skewers directly on the grill, turning occasionally until vegetables are lightly browned.
Most vegetables do not take long to cook, only about 2-5 minutes per side on medium heat. As they cook, they will get softer and softer, so watch closely to be sure to attain the desired consistency. Grilled vegetables can be mixed with pasta, tossed in a salad, or served alone. The possibilities for grilled vegetables are endless.
Grilled vegetables make a great addition for any burger and hotdog barbeque. Grilling vegetables is easy, healthy, and most of all—delicious.
