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Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe

Marinated grilled vegetable kabobs are a delightful way to enjoy a rainbow of fresh vegetables with a burst of flavor. These kabobs are perfect for summer cookouts or a healthy weeknight dinner, offering a delicious and colorful addition to your grilling menu.

Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe
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Photos of Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe

Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice might not always be on hand, but they are essential for the tangy and zesty marinade. Make sure you have honey as it adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon juice and mustard. Fresh or dried basil, parsley, and oregano are also key for the herbaceous notes.

Ingredients For Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Vegetables: A mix of your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in blending the marinade.

Fresh lemon juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor to the marinade.

Water: Helps to dilute the marinade slightly so it coats the vegetables evenly.

Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor to the marinade.

Honey: Balances the tanginess of the mustard and lemon juice with a touch of sweetness.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory flavor to the marinade.

Basil: Offers a sweet, aromatic herbal note.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.

Oregano: Provides a warm, slightly bitter taste.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the marinade.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness and depth.

One reader, Corbett Oleary says:

star icon star icon star icon star icon star icon

These marinated grilled vegetable kabobs are fantastic! The marinade adds a delicious depth of flavor, and the veggies come out perfectly tender and smoky. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's great for any barbecue. Highly recommend!

Corbett Oleary

Techniques Required for Making Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

How to soak wooden skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. How to wash and chop vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly under running water and chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. How to combine marinade ingredients: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, water, dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large ziplock bag. How to marinate vegetables: Add the chopped vegetables to the marinade in the ziplock bag, seal it, and let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight, turning occasionally to ensure even coating. How to thread vegetables onto skewers: Carefully thread the marinated vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating types of vegetables for variety. How to preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat before placing the vegetable skewers on it. How to grill vegetable skewers: Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.

How To Make Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs

Take your pick of vegetables and have them grilled into these vegetables kabobs. The veggies are prepared with a citrusy marinade that’s full of herbs.

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 15 minutes
Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • 8cupsvegetables,(such as onions, mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, potatoes, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes)

For Marinade:

  • cupolive oil
  • ¼cupfresh lemon juice
  • ¼cupwater
  • 3tbspdijon mustard
  • 2tbsphoney
  • 2clovesgarlic,minced
  • 1tspbasil
  • 1tspparsley
  • 1tsporegano
  • ½tspsalt
  • ½tspfreshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Wash and chop all veggies into bite sized pieces.

  3. Combine all marinade ingredients in a large Ziplock bag. Add in veggies and allow to marinate 4 hours or as long as overnight, turning occasionally. (If you pressed for time, just toss and let sit 15 minutes but longer is better).

  4. Thread the veggies onto skewers.

  5. Preheat grill to medium and grill skewers 10 minutes or until done.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 168.10kcal
  • Fat: 9.70g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.35g
  • Trans Fat: 0.00g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6.73g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.21g
  • Carbohydrates: 17.89g
  • Fiber: 4.02g
  • Sugar: 4.57g
  • Protein: 3.37g
  • Sodium: 253.58mg
  • Calcium: 31.92mg
  • Potassium: 220.04mg
  • Iron: 1.12mg
  • Vitamin A: 232.40µg
  • Vitamin C: 12.91mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

To ensure even cooking and a beautiful char on your vegetable kabobs, make sure to cut all the veggies into uniform bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate and makes for a visually appealing presentation. Additionally, when threading the vegetables onto the skewers, leave a little space between each piece to allow the heat to circulate and cook them evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the marinade ingredients the night before to save time on the day of grilling.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop all vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use metal skewers: Opt for metal skewers to skip the soaking step required for wooden ones.

Quick marination: If short on time, marinate the veggies for at least 15 minutes while prepping the grill.

Batch grilling: Grill multiple kabobs at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe

  • vegetables - Substitute with tofu cubes: Tofu absorbs the marinade well and provides a different texture and protein content.

  • olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.

  • fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, adding a slightly different but refreshing taste.

  • water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

  • dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard provides a similar tangy flavor with a bit more texture.

  • honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.

  • garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic.

  • basil - Substitute with thyme: Thyme offers a different but complementary herbal note.

  • parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that can enhance the overall taste.

  • oregano - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram has a similar but slightly sweeter and milder flavor compared to oregano.

  • salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with umami, enhancing the overall flavor.

  • freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat with a slightly different flavor profile.

Presentation Tips for Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

  1. Select vibrant vegetables: Choose a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and mushrooms to create a visually appealing and colorful presentation.

  2. Uniform chopping: Ensure all vegetables are chopped into uniform bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and a consistent look on the plate.

  3. Elegant skewering: Thread the vegetables onto skewers in a deliberate pattern, alternating colors and shapes to create a visually striking arrangement.

  4. Marinade infusion: Allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 4 hours, ensuring they absorb the flavors of the marinade made from olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, garlic, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  5. Grill marks perfection: Preheat the grill to medium and cook the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve perfect grill marks and ensure the vegetables are tender yet slightly crisp.

  6. Artful plating: Arrange the grilled vegetable kabobs on a large, pristine white platter. Consider laying them in a fan shape or in parallel lines for a clean, professional look.

  7. Garnish with herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top of the vegetable kabobs to add a touch of freshness and a pop of green color.

  8. Drizzle of marinade: Lightly drizzle some of the reserved marinade over the vegetable kabobs just before serving to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.

  9. Accompany with a dipping sauce: Serve the vegetable kabobs with a side of tzatziki or hummus for an added layer of flavor and a creamy contrast to the grilled vegetables.

  10. Final touch: Add a few edible flowers or microgreens around the platter for an extra touch of elegance and to impress the culinary professionals with your attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Making Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

  • Wooden skewers: Used for threading the marinated vegetables to create kabobs. Soak them in water to prevent burning on the grill.

  • Large ziplock bag: Essential for mixing and marinating the vegetables with the marinade ingredients. It allows for easy turning and even coating.

  • Knife: Necessary for chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

  • Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the vegetables.

  • Measuring cups: Used to measure the olive oil, lemon juice, and water accurately for the marinade.

  • Measuring spoons: Used to measure the dijon mustard, honey, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper accurately.

  • Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

  • Mixing bowl: Useful for combining all the marinade ingredients before transferring them to the ziplock bag.

  • Grill: The primary cooking tool for grilling the vegetable kabobs to perfection.

  • Tongs: Essential for turning and handling the skewers on the grill safely.

  • Basting brush: Optional but useful for applying any extra marinade to the vegetables while grilling.

Storing and Freezing Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

  • If you have any leftover marinated grilled vegetable kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • To reheat, you can either microwave the kabobs for a minute or two or place them back on the grill until heated through.
  • For longer storage, you can freeze the kabobs for up to 2-3 months:
    • Allow the kabobs to cool completely before freezing.
    • Place the kabobs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
    • Once frozen, transfer the kabobs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
    • Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
  • To reheat frozen kabobs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the grill or in the microwave until heated through.
  • Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor should still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover vegetable kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the kabobs with a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

  • For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the vegetable kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the vegetables, as they may become mushy.

  • If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the vegetable kabobs over medium-high heat. Brush the kabobs with a little olive oil and place them on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the vegetables are heated through and slightly charred.

  • For a flavorful twist, create a quick stir-fry with your leftover vegetable kabobs. Remove the vegetables from the skewers and heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil or sesame oil, then toss in the vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also add some soy sauce, garlic, or ginger for extra flavor.

  • If you want to enjoy your leftover vegetable kabobs cold, simply remove the vegetables from the skewers and toss them with some fresh greens, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious and refreshing salad.

Interesting Fact About Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

A random fact about this recipe is that marinating the vegetables not only enhances their flavor but also helps to retain their moisture during grilling, resulting in a more succulent and tasty kabob.

Is Making Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs at Home Cost-Effective?

This marinated grilled vegetable kabobs recipe is quite cost-effective. Using seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes can keep costs low. The marinade ingredients such as olive oil, lemon juice, and dijon mustard are pantry staples. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$15 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs Healthy?

The marinated grilled vegetable kabobs recipe is a healthy and nutritious option for several reasons:

  • The main ingredient is vegetables, which are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Using a variety of vegetables ensures a wide range of nutrients.
  • The marinade consists of healthy ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and herbs. These ingredients provide healthy fats, antioxidants, and flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar.
  • Grilling the vegetables is a low-fat cooking method that helps retain their nutritional value and natural flavors.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil in the marinade. While olive oil is a healthy fat, reducing the quantity slightly could help lower the overall calorie content without compromising flavor.

To boost the protein content and make the kabobs more filling, consider adding tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms to the skewers. These plant-based options would complement the vegetables nicely.

For an extra nutritional boost, try incorporating more colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, yellow squash, or purple eggplant. The more diverse the colors, the wider the range of phytochemicals and antioxidants.

If you're watching your sodium intake, consider reducing the amount of salt in the marinade or using a low-sodium dijon mustard. You can always add a pinch of salt to the finished kabobs if needed.

Finally, to make the most of the marinade, reserve any leftover liquid after removing the vegetables. Brush it on the kabobs while grilling for an extra burst of flavor without the need for additional oil or salt.

Editor's Opinion on Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs Recipe

This marinated grilled vegetable kabobs recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The marinade, with its combination of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey, adds a tangy and slightly sweet profile that complements the vegetables beautifully. The inclusion of garlic and herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano enhances the overall taste, making each bite aromatic and flavorful. Grilling the marinated veggies brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky char. This recipe is versatile, healthy, and perfect for a summer barbecue or a light, nutritious meal.

Enhance Your Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mediterranean Couscous Salad: Pair your marinated grilled vegetable kabobs with a vibrant Mediterranean Couscous Salad. The fluffy couscous, mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, will complement the smoky flavors of the kabobs. A drizzle of lemon vinaigrette ties it all together, making each bite a refreshing delight.
Garlic Herb Quinoa: Elevate your meal with Garlic Herb Quinoa. This nutty and fluffy quinoa is infused with garlic and fresh herbs, providing a perfect balance to the grilled vegetables. The subtle flavors will enhance the kabobs without overpowering them.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add a creamy and tangy touch with Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. This smooth hummus is blended with roasted red peppers, giving it a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the grilled veggies. Serve with pita bread or fresh veggie sticks for a delightful contrast.
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf: Complement your kabobs with Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf. This fragrant rice pilaf is infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs, creating a light and zesty side dish. The citrusy notes will harmonize with the marinade, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: For a sweet and smoky twist, serve Grilled Pineapple Slices. The caramelized pineapple adds a tropical flair to your meal, balancing the savory grilled vegetables with a hint of sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can elevate this side dish to new heights.

Similar Recipes to Marinated Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Grilled Vegetable Panini: Imagine the smoky flavors of your marinated grilled vegetable kabobs pressed between two slices of crusty bread, oozing with melted cheese. This panini is a perfect way to repurpose leftover veggies into a delightful sandwich.
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Transform your marinated veggies into a hearty quinoa salad. Toss the grilled vegetables with cooked quinoa, a handful of fresh herbs, and a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious main course.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Take those marinated vegetables to the stovetop for a quick and easy stir-fry. Add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Vegetable Fajitas: Spice up your dinner with vegetable fajitas. Sauté your marinated veggies with some onions and bell peppers, then serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, and salsa for a vibrant and flavorful feast.
Vegetable Pizza: Top a homemade or store-bought pizza crust with your marinated grilled vegetables, a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden for a delicious vegetarian pizza.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant stuffed mini bell peppers. The peppers are filled with a creamy cheese mixture that includes goat cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon zest. Add a touch of fresh herbs like basil and parsley for an aromatic finish. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient yet impressive choice.
Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with caprese skewers. These skewers feature cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve these skewers chilled for a refreshing start to your meal. They are easy to assemble and visually appealing, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Desserts:
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the decadence of a molten center with this rich treat. Imagine cutting into a warm, chocolate cake to reveal a gooey, flowing core of melted chocolate. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation.
Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the perfect balance of tart and sweet with this classic dessert. A buttery crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue. The lemon curd provides a zesty punch that is beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the meringue. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For an added twist, consider incorporating a hint of lavender or thyme into the crust to surprise and delight your guests.

Why trust this Marinated Grilled Vegetables Kabobs Recipe:

This recipe is a surefire way to elevate your grilling game. The marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, and dijon mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Marinating the vegetables ensures they are infused with deliciousness, making each bite a burst of taste. Plus, grilling brings out the natural sweetness and adds a smoky touch. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and the joy it brings to any meal.

Want to share your own marinated grilled vegetable kabob recipes or discuss techniques for perfect kabobs? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!
FAQ:
How long should I marinate the vegetables?
Ideally, you should marinate the vegetables for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. If you're in a rush, 15 minutes will do, but longer is definitely better.
What types of vegetables work best for these kabobs?
You can use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, red onions, and eggplant. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Absolutely! Metal skewers work great and you don't have to soak them. Just be careful as they can get really hot on the grill.
How do I know when the vegetables are done grilling?
The vegetables should be tender and have nice grill marks. This usually takes about 10 minutes on medium heat, but keep an eye on them and turn occasionally to avoid burning.
Can I make these kabobs in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

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