You don’t have to be a meat lover to enjoy grilling season. For all the meat that finds its way onto the grill, the true stars of grilling season are the vegetables. They don’t require much fuss and result in a delicious side dish or, oftentimes, main dish. But not all vegetables were made for grilling – only the strongest survive.
Here are the best vegetables to grill this summer:
1. Eggplant
Eggplants are so underrated. They are unique in that they absorb flavor like a sponge, unlike many other vegetables. On the grill, eggplant takes on an even more unique character and texture – the kind you’re mouth will forever water just thinking about.
2. Corn
This summer staple – corn – is one of (if not THE) best vegetable to throw on the grill. Grilling brings out it’s natural sweetness. All you need is a dash of salt and garlic butter and you’ve got yourself the best grilled eats.
3. Bell Peppers
Grilled bell peppers are a surefire hit on a kabob stick or as is, as a side dish among other grilled veggies. To get rid of the skin, grill whole bell peppers until blackened and place them in a close paper bag until they cool. Once cool, rub off the skin – it should peel off easily!
4. Portobello Mushrooms
Unlike many other mushrooms, which can be delicate or simply too small to handle the grill, Portobello mushrooms hold their shape. In fact, the vegetable takes on a steak-like aroma and texture. For all the vegetarians out there, simply marinade Portobello mushrooms with spices and condiments like cumin, cardamom, chili powder, soy sauce and/or Worcestershire sauce as well as olive oil and then grill away to veg-burger perfection.
5. Onions
There is nothing quite as delicious as grilled onions. Grilling brings out the onion’s natural sweetness and caramelizes the vegetable while still keeping it sturdy and complementary to many a main dish.
6. Zucchini
This sturdy vegetable is reminiscent of summer and while it is a relative bore when eaten raw, it flavors truly shine when grilled. All it needs is a little olive oil, salt and pepper and you’ve got yourself a grilled veggie that sells itself. Or you can get more gourmet, with a cilantro lime dressing.
7. Asparagus
Asparagus is delicious no matter how you cook it, but especially appetizing when grilled. Choose thicker asparagus spears to avoid them slipping through the grates. Sprinkle with grated parmesan, black pepper and sea salt when fresh off the grill and still piping hot!
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Grilled Vegetables from Shutterstock