As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, I find myself drawn to the grill, eager to embrace the vibrant flavors of summer. There’s something magical about the sizzle of fresh vegetables on the grill, transforming simple ingredients into a colorful feast. One of my favorite go-to dishes is Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette. This dish not only bursts with flavor but also brings a healthy twist to any meal. The combination of smoky, charred veggies drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette is simply irresistible.
Every time I prepare these skewers, I’m reminded of family gatherings and backyard barbecues filled with laughter and delicious aromas. The best part? You can customize the vegetables to suit your taste or whatever is in season. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the vibrant world of grilling and create a dish that celebrates the essence of summer!
Ingredients List
1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 bell pepper (any color), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, whole or halved
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing skewers)
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
1/4 cup olive oil (for lemon vinaigrette)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste (for vinaigrette)
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. For the zucchini, slice it into rounds about half an inch thick. This thickness ensures they cook evenly and hold their shape on the grill. Next, take your bell pepper and cut it into bite-sized pieces, removing the seeds and stem. The red onion should be cut into wedges, keeping the layers intact for easy skewering. Finally, rinse the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms; you can leave the tomatoes whole and halve the mushrooms if they are large. This variety in size adds visual appeal and texture to your skewers.
Skewer the Vegetables
Now it’s time to thread the vegetables onto the skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Start with a piece of zucchini, followed by a bell pepper chunk, a wedge of onion, a cherry tomato, and a mushroom. Repeat this pattern, alternating the vegetables for a colorful presentation. This not only looks great but also ensures that each bite is packed with different flavors.
Season the Skewers
Once your skewers are assembled, it’s time to season them. Brush each skewer generously with olive oil, which helps to prevent sticking and adds flavor. Then, sprinkle salt and pepper over the skewers. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and makes them pop on the grill.
Preheat the Grill
Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. A properly heated grill is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring the vegetables cook evenly. You can test the heat by holding your hand about six inches above the grill; if you can only keep it there for 2-3 seconds, it’s ready!
Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and to achieve that lovely char. You’ll know they’re done when the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on the size of your vegetable pieces and the heat of your grill.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
While the skewers are grilling, let’s whip up the lemon vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This vinaigrette adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables.
Drizzle and Garnish
Once the skewers are off the grill, it’s time to drizzle them with the lemon vinaigrette. Use a spoon to evenly coat the skewers, allowing the dressing to soak into the vegetables. Finally, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of grilled vegetables and zesty dressing!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette, you can feel good about what you’re eating. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 skewer):
Calories: 150
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 3g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoy these skewers guilt-free, knowing they are packed with nutrients and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of grilling, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavorful: The combination of smoky grilled vegetables and zesty lemon vinaigrette creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
Healthy: Packed with nutrients, these skewers are a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables while keeping your meal light.
Customizable: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or add spices to make it your own.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive barbecue, these skewers are sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Success
To make your Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette truly shine, here are some tips I’ve gathered from my own grilling adventures:
Choose Fresh Vegetables: Opt for seasonal, fresh vegetables. They not only taste better but also have vibrant colors that enhance your dish.
Uniform Size: Cut your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. This way, everything will be perfectly tender at the same time.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the vegetables in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes before skewering. This adds an extra layer of flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a little space between the vegetables on the skewers. This allows the heat to circulate and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
Keep an Eye on the Grill: Grilling times can vary, so stay close and check for doneness. You want that perfect char without burning.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious, perfectly grilled vegetable skewers that everyone will love!
Variations
One of the best things about Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette is how versatile they are! You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Swap the Veggies: Try using asparagus, eggplant, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add chunks of chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the skewers.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the vinaigrette for an aromatic twist.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect skewers. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes grilling so much fun!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers from your Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Allow the skewers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. You can place the skewers on a grill or in a grill pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just cover them with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your delicious leftovers as a quick snack or a side dish!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about making Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette:
Can I use frozen vegetables for skewers?
While fresh vegetables yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before skewering to avoid excess moisture.
What other vegetables work well on skewers?
You can get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and onions are classics. But feel free to add eggplant, asparagus, or even chunks of pineapple for a sweet twist.
How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from catching fire. This simple step makes a big difference!
Can I make the lemon vinaigrette ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Give it a good shake before drizzling over your skewers.
What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with a side of quinoa, a fresh salad, or even some grilled bread. They make a fantastic addition to any summer meal!
A healthy and colorful dish featuring grilled vegetables drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Scale
1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 bell pepper (any color), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, whole or halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
1/4 cup olive oil (for vinaigrette)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste (for vinaigrette)
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables: Slice the zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion, and prepare the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms.
Skewer the vegetables: Thread the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms onto the skewers, alternating the vegetables for a colorful presentation.
Season the skewers: Brush the vegetable skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high.
Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Make the lemon vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Drizzle the vinaigrette: Once the skewers are done grilling, remove them from the grill and drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette.
Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Adjust the vegetables based on your preference.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
