10 Best Veggies for Grilling That Will Steal the Show (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Corn)
If you're tired of the same old grilled corn and zucchini routine, it's time to level up your veggie game. Whether you're a backyard barbecue master or a plant-loving foodie, this guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you grill vegetables like a pro.
Table of Contents
- Why Veggie Grilling Matters
- Top 10 Best Vegetables for Grilling
- Spice It Up! Seasoning Tips
- Essential Tools for Perfect Veggie Grilling
- Buying Guide: What to Look For
- Final Thoughts
Why Veggie Grilling Matters
In a world full of burgers and steaks, grilled veggies offer a delicious, healthy alternative that even meat lovers can’t resist. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully over open flame, bringing out rich, smoky flavors that are hard to beat.
Plus, grilling vegetables opens up endless flavor possibilities — from spicy chili rubs to aromatic herb blends. Let’s dive into the best options and how to get the most out of each one.
Top 10 Best Vegetables for Grilling
Here’s our list of must-grill veggies, complete with quick tips for perfect results every time:
Veggie | Texture | Best Flavor Pairings | Grilling Tip |
---|---|---|---|
Portobello Mushrooms | Meaty, firm | Balsamic glaze, garlic oil | Brush both sides and cook gill-side down first |
Eggplant | Silky, dense | Smoked paprika, tahini | Slice thickly and salt before grilling to draw out moisture |
Zucchini & Yellow Squash | Tender, juicy | Lemon zest, chili flakes | Cut into planks or slices; avoid overcrowding |
Asparagus | Crisp-tender | Parmesan cheese, lemon | Toss in oil, season, and cook quickly |
Peppers (Bell, Shishito, etc.) | Sweet, smoky | Garlic aioli, chimichurri | Char until skin blisters, then peel if desired |
Onions (Red or Vidalia) | Sweet, layered | BBQ sauce, thyme | Slice thick rounds and soak in water briefly to prevent burning |
Tomatoes (Cherry or Heirloom) | Juicy, sweet | Basil, olive oil | Skewer and cook gently to preserve shape |
Carrots | Firm, sweet | Honey, cumin | Blanch first or cut thin for faster grilling |
Pattypan Squash | Creamy, buttery | Rosemary, browned butter | Grill whole or halved for dramatic presentation |
Artichokes | Meaty, earthy | Lemon-garlic mayo, herbs de Provence | Pre-cook to soften, then char for smoky depth |
Pro Tip:
- Use a grill basket or skewers to keep small pieces from falling through the grates.
- Don’t skip preheating the grill — a hot surface ensures beautiful sear marks without sticking.
- Oil the vegetables, not the grates — this helps the seasoning stick better.
Spice It Up! Seasoning Tips
Spices are the secret weapon of any great grilled dish — and veggies are no exception. Here’s how to take your grilled produce from good to unforgettable:
Basic Grill Rub
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp sea salt
Flavor Profiles You Can Try:
Theme | Spices/Ingredients | Best With |
---|---|---|
Mediterranean | Oregano, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest | Peppers, eggplant, zucchini |
Mexican | Ancho chili powder, cumin, lime zest | Onions, tomatoes, mushrooms |
Asian-Inspired | Sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce (brush after grilling) | Asparagus, carrots, mushrooms |
Spicy BBQ | Chipotle powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar | All veggies — especially when used as toppings |
Essential Tools for Perfect Veggie Grilling
You don’t need a ton of gadgets to grill great veggies, but a few key tools make the job much easier:
- Grill Basket: Keeps smaller pieces contained while allowing for direct contact with the flames.
- Vegetable Skewers: Great for assembling colorful kebabs — use metal ones to avoid charring.
- Cast Iron Grill Pan: Ideal for delicate items like cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced eggplant.
- Oil Misto Bottle: Lightly spritz oil without soaking the veggies.
- Spice Shaker: Evenly apply dry rubs and blends right before grilling.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Choosing high-quality vegetables is the foundation of a great grilled meal. Here’s how to pick the best at the store or farmer’s market:
Key Buying Tips:
- Firmness: Avoid soft or mushy veggies — they’ll fall apart on the grill.
- Color: Bright, vibrant hues usually indicate freshness and peak flavor.
- Size: Medium-sized vegetables often have the best texture and flavor balance.
- Seasonality: Go local and in-season for optimal taste and value.
Top Picks for Each Veggie
Veggie | What to Buy | Why It’s Best |
---|---|---|
Mushrooms | Large Portobellos | Hold up well to heat and have a meaty texture |
Eggplant | Glossy purple skin, heavy for size | Indicates less bitterness and more moisture |
Zucchini/Yellow Squash | Small to medium, firm to touch | Better flavor and fewer seeds than larger ones |
Asparagus | Thicker stalks, bright green with purplish tips | More tender and flavorful than thin varieties |
Peppers | Bright colors, smooth skin | Thin-walled peppers (like shishitos) blister easily |
Onions | Heavy, dry outer skin | Less likely to slip off skewers during grilling |
Final Thoughts
Grilled vegetables are not just side dishes — they can be the main event. With the right ingredients, seasonings, and tools, you can turn simple produce into mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing delights.
Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party or looking to sneak more greens into your diet, these top 10 grilled veggies will keep your meals exciting and flavorful. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite veggies, and let’s make some magic!