Grilled Veggies Basket

Grilling is not just a means to cook food—it’s an experience, a culinary art that people enjoy globally, often associated with summery outdoor gatherings or weekend fun. While grilling is typically synonymous with searing meats and poultry to perfection, it opens up an equally delicious world for vegetables. Today, we’re highlighting the art of preparing a grilled veggies basket, a treat that is not only vibrant and flavorful but also a testament to the versatility of grilling.

Why Grilled Vegetables are a Must-Try

Preparing Your Vegetables for Grilling

Before the veggies hit the grill, they need a little prep work.

1. Wash: Give them a good rinse to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut: Slice the vegetables into even sizes to ensure uniform cooking. Peppers can be quartered, squash sliced lengthwise, and mushrooms left whole if not too large.
3. Season: Toss them with a generous drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and other spices or herbs that match your menu. For added pizzazz, try garlic powder, smoked paprika, rosemary, or thyme.
4. Marinate (optional): For an extra flavour boost, marinate the vegetables in a mixture of oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

The Grilling Process

Now for the fun part—firing up the grill! You can use a gas or charcoal grill, but ensure it’s hot before starting. For a veggie basket:

1. If using a grill basket, lay your seasoned veggies in the basket. No basket? Arrange larger slices directly onto the grill, and use foil for smaller items like cherry tomatoes.
2. Grill over medium to high heat. The time will vary depending on the vegetable, but generally, you’re looking at about 5-10 minutes per side.
3. Use tongs to turn the veggies occasionally, aiming for char marks without burning.
4. Test for doneness by poking with a fork—vegetables should be tender but still slightly firm.

Serving and Enjoyment

Once off the grill, the veggies can be served immediately, offering a gorgeous symphony of grilled goodness. You can enjoy them as a side dish, tossed into a salad, or as a standalone feature with dips like hummus or aioli.

Drizzle them with balsamic glaze, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, or give them a final flourish of fresh herbs. The options are endless and entirely up to your taste. For an added gourmet touch, serve with grilled polenta, a dollop of goat cheese, or alongside a grilled protein.

Conclusion

A well-prepared grilled veggies basket is not just a healthy addition to your diet; it’s a celebration of colour, texture, and flavour. It brings vegetarian cooking into the spotlight, and whether you’re a dedicated plant lover or just looking to reduce your meat intake, it’s a culinary craft worth exploring.