Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A Summertime Delight

Summer evenings call for vibrant flavors and easy meals, and what could be more perfect than succulent, smoky balsamic grilled vegetables? This recipe transforms simple seasonal produce into a culinary masterpiece, bursting with sweetness and tang. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish to accompany grilled meats or a satisfying vegetarian main course, these balsamic grilled vegetables are sure to impress. The beautiful char marks and the intense balsamic glaze create a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Imagine the aroma of grilling vegetables mingling with the rich scent of balsamic vinegar – a truly unforgettable summer experience. This recipe is incredibly versatile; it’s easy to adapt to whatever vegetables are freshest at your local market. So, fire up your grill and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire.

Delicious Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe creates perfectly grilled vegetables with a tangy balsamic glaze. A healthy and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Grill
• Large bowl
• Basting Brush

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 large Red Bell Pepper cored, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large Yellow Bell Pepper cored, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium Zucchini trimmed and cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 1 medium Yellow Squash trimmed and cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 1 medium Red Onion cut into 1-inch thick wedges
• 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grill grates to prevent sticking.
• In a large bowl, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
• Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat all vegetables evenly.
• Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Larger vegetables (peppers and onions) may require longer grilling time.
• For even cooking and to prevent burning, use tongs to turn the vegetables frequently during grilling. Consider basting with extra balsamic vinegar halfway through.
• Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
• Serve immediately as a side dish. Arrange attractively on a platter, alternating colors for visual appeal. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the vegetables for 30 minutes before grilling. You can also add other vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or mushrooms. Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking.

Keyword balsamic, easy recipe, grilled vegetables, healthy, side dish, summer, vegetarian

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Grilled Vegetables Recipe

There’s so much to love about this recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables! First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple. With minimal prep work, you can have a delicious and healthy dish on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The beautiful presentation is another key element; the vibrant colors of the grilled vegetables make this a truly stunning dish, perfect for impressing guests or simply adding a touch of elegance to your everyday meals. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the balsamic glaze and the smoky char from the grill creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe is incredibly healthy. Grilling vegetables helps to preserve their nutritional value, and the addition of balsamic vinegar adds antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. This makes it a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced and healthy diet. The recipe is incredibly adaptable too! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. This recipe is easily customizable to create unique flavor profiles, making it a great option for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this recipe is fun! Grilling is a relaxing and enjoyable process, and the whole family can participate. It’s a fantastic way to connect with loved ones while creating a delicious and healthy meal together. This recipe will become a summer tradition for your family. This recipe is truly the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and health; the ultimate summer side dish.

Why You Should Try This Balsamic Grilled Vegetables Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and versatile side dish, then you absolutely need to try this recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables. This dish transcends the typical “side dish” status; it’s so flavorful and satisfying that it could easily serve as a main course, especially for vegetarian or vegan diets. The incredible flavor combination is what sets this recipe apart. The sweetness of the peppers and squash beautifully balances the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar, and the char from the grill adds a depth of flavor you won’t find anywhere else. This recipe will quickly elevate your everyday meals.

Beyond the exceptional taste, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of seasonal vegetables. Using in-season produce not only guarantees the best possible flavor but also ensures that you’re getting the most nutritional benefit from your ingredients. You can also customize this recipe using different vegetables based on personal preference or what’s readily available – adding endless possibilities for experimentation and delicious discoveries. This simple recipe is surprisingly adaptable, offering plenty of room for customization.

Let’s not forget the ease and speed of preparation. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights; it takes minimal time to prep and cook, and the cleanup is a breeze. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate simplicity and efficiency without compromising on taste. Finally, this recipe is an excellent way to introduce your family and friends to the joys of grilling vegetables. It’s a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress, making it a great option for summer barbecues or casual gatherings. This recipe is a winner for its simplicity, versatility, and of course, delicious flavor.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables is simple, yet the quality of ingredients significantly impacts the final result. Choosing ripe, high-quality vegetables will elevate the overall flavor. Here’s a detailed list:

• Vegetables:
• 1 large red bell pepper (choose a firm, brightly colored one)
• 1 large yellow bell pepper (similarly, choose a vibrant and firm pepper)
• 1 zucchini (look for one that’s firm and unblemished)
• 1 yellow squash (similar quality checks apply as for zucchini)
• 1 red onion (a sweet red onion adds a milder flavor than a white or yellow onion)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (on-the-vine cherry tomatoes add a nice touch)
• Marinade/Dressing:
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high-quality olive oil significantly enhances flavor)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (look for a good quality balsamic vinegar – a darker, aged balsamic will have a more intense flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (fresh oregano is even better, if available)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt adds a nice crunch)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground black pepper is always recommended)

Utensils: The right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large bowl for mixing the vegetables
• Grill (gas, charcoal, or even a grill pan will work)
• Grill tongs for turning the vegetables
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving platter or large bowl for presentation
• Optional: Basting brush for extra balsamic glaze

Detailed Recipe Steps for Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables is straightforward, but attention to detail will maximize flavor and presentation.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Remove the core, seeds, and stem from the bell peppers. Cut the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion into roughly 1-inch pieces or slices. Halve or quarter larger onions if needed for even cooking. The cherry tomatoes require no preparation other than a gentle wash.
2. Create the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the marinade is well-combined. The quality of your balsamic vinegar really shines through here.
3. Marinate the Vegetables: Add the prepared vegetables to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to ensure that all the vegetables are evenly coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if time allows. This step is crucial for infusing the vegetables with flavor.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and tender vegetables. It’s ready when you can hold your hand about 6 inches above the grates for only 3-4 seconds.
5. Grill the Vegetables: Place the marinated vegetables on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Larger vegetables like the peppers and onion will require longer grilling times. Smaller vegetables like the cherry tomatoes will cook more quickly. Use tongs to carefully turn the vegetables so they cook evenly. If using a gas grill, you may need to adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
6. Check for Doneness: The vegetables are done when they are tender and slightly charred, and have developed those beautiful grill marks. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the vegetables to continue to cook slightly and retain their juices. Arrange them attractively on a platter, alternating colors for visual appeal. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze, if desired, for added flavor and richness.

Important Tip: Don’t overcrowd the grill. This will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning and charring. Work in batches if necessary for even cooking.

Tips and Variations for Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables is incredibly versatile. Here are a few tips and variations to experiment with:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as eggplant, asparagus, mushrooms, or bell peppers of different colors. Experiment with seasonal favorites for an ever-changing flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Try other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in addition to, or instead of, oregano. Fresh herbs always deliver the most vibrant flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the marinade for extra brightness.
• Balsamic Glaze: A high-quality balsamic glaze drizzled over the finished vegetables adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian.
• Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked vegetables will be mushy. Keep a close eye on them while they are grilling to prevent this.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the vegetables space to cook evenly and get those beautiful char marks.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables is packed with nutrients and offers numerous health benefits. While precise nutritional values will vary based on the specific vegetables used and portion sizes, here’s a general overview:

Nutritional Highlights: This dish is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while zucchini and squash provide vitamin A. Red onion is a good source of antioxidants. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits. The olive oil adds healthy fats, contributing to overall heart health. Balsamic vinegar provides antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

Health Benefits: The high fiber content aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The antioxidants protect your cells from damage. The vitamins and minerals contribute to overall health and well-being. Grilling preserves many of the nutrients found in the vegetables, unlike boiling or steaming, which can leach out vital nutrients.

Note: This is a general overview. For precise nutritional information, you can use an online nutritional calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.

FAQs

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe for balsamic grilled vegetables offers a delightful combination of simplicity, flavor, and health benefits. From the easy preparation to the stunning presentation and the unforgettable taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, using whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. It’s a perfect side dish for any occasion and a healthy addition to your weekly meal plan.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary creations with us! Leave a comment below to let us know how you enjoyed it or if you have any questions. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – and tag us on social media! And for more delicious recipes, visit our blog at Recipes Lora and check out our Pinterest board for more grilling inspiration: Recipes Lora’s Pinterest. Happy grilling!