Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers

Name: Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 10 cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating vibrant, flavorful dishes that highlight fresh vegetables, and these Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers have become one of my favorites. The marinating process infuses the veggies with a delightful mix of spices and herbs, setting them up for grilling to perfection. With each bite, you’ll experience the smoky char and intense flavors that make these skewers the perfect addition to any barbecue or picnic. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds, but they also bring a rainbow of colors to the table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:26:28.780Z

When I first embarked on making these skewers, I wanted to create a dish that wasn’t just simple but also packed with flavor. I decided to go for a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, soaking them in a zesty marinade overnight. This method truly enhances the flavor profile, ensuring that every bite bursts with taste. It’s a technique I’ve refined over the years, and I guarantee it’ll become your go-to for grilling.

The beauty of these skewers is their versatility. I’ve experimented with different marinades, including balsamic vinegar and garlic, which worked wonders in elevating the dish. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars in the veggies, creating an incredible depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. They always disappear at gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly easy to prepare with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables
The marinade adds a punch of flavor that elevates any barbecue
Versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Selecting fresh vegetables is crucial for developing the best flavor in your Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers. I recommend choosing vibrant, firm produce that is in season, as they'll have the best taste and texture. You can mix and match other veggies like mushrooms, eggplant, or even asparagus to suit your preferences. Just ensure that any additional vegetables maintain a similar cooking time to the zucchini and peppers, as this will ensure even grilling.

Cutting your vegetables into uniform pieces guarantees an even cook. For instance, a good size for bell pepper chunks is about one inch, while zucchini slices can be half an inch thick. This consistency allows all the pieces to become tender without any being overdone or undercooked. If you’re using firmer vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, consider parboiling them first to reduce their grilling time.

Perfecting Your Marinade

The marinade is essential in this recipe, not just for flavor but for texture. The olive oil enhances the richness of the vegetables while the balsamic vinegar brings both acidity and sweetness, which helps to caramelize the sugars in the veggies during grilling. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the marinade.

Allowing the vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes is the sweet spot; this duration allows them to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy. If time allows, marinating them overnight can intensify the taste even further, making them bursting with flavor. For an added layer of complexity, try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme after marinating, just before grilling.

Grilling Techniques

When grilling the skewers, it's important to maintain a consistent medium-high heat, typically around 375°F to 450°F. This temperature ensures that the veggies char nicely, creating those appealing grill marks without becoming mushy. Occasionally turning the skewers will help cook the vegetables evenly, and keep an eye on them to avoid burning, which usually takes around 10-15 minutes.

To prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the skewers on them. If you want to enhance the smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips, such as hickory or mesquite, to your grill. Just soak the chips in water for about 30 minutes first, then sprinkle them over the coals or in the smoker box of a gas grill for a fragrant, smoky infusion.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your skewers.

Ingredients

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
10 cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Ensure everything is cut uniformly for even cooking.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your skewers.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Vegetables

Add the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the marinade. Toss to coat all the veggies evenly and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.

Skewer the Vegetables

Thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between different types for a colorful presentation.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and have nice grill marks.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the grill and serve hot. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course!

Grilled veggie skewers make for a delightful meal any time of the year!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or seasonal favorites. Adding mushrooms or eggplant can also be a great option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make the skewers ahead of time, consider marinating them the night before. After marinating, you can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, just be sure to keep them covered to keep the flavors intact. Once grilled, these skewers can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a great leftover option.

To reheat your grilled veggie skewers, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. However, for the best texture, you may also choose to briefly toss them on a hot grill for a few minutes, restoring the char and freshness before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Marinated Grilled Veggie Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. They work wonderfully as a side for grilled chicken or fish, or can be served atop a fresh salad for a light main course. You might also consider pairing them with dips like tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy aioli for an added flavor experience.

For a fun and interactive dining experience, set up a skewering station where guests can create their own combinations of veggies. This not only accommodates various dietary needs but also makes the meal more engaging. Just remember to provide a range of marinades and dipping sauces so everyone can customize their skewers to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies like mushrooms, eggplant, or even corn.

→ How long can I marinate the vegetables?

You can marinate the veggies for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

→ What can I serve with the skewers?

These skewers pair perfectly with a fresh salad, rice, or even as a topping for a grain bowl.

→ Can I use this recipe for grilling indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or broiler to prepare these skewers indoors!