Name: Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Garlic Herb Marinade
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds; 2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks; 2 yellow bell peppers, cut into chunks; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 12 whole cremini mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

These grilled vegetable skewers are my go-to recipe when I want something fresh, flavorful, and simple to throw on the grill. Loaded with zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and red onions, and soaked in a fragrant garlic herb marinade, this dish is a celebration of summer produce. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or prepping a light weeknight meal, these skewers are always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds

2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks

1 red onion, cut into wedges

2 yellow bell peppers, cut into chunks

12 whole cremini mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, I soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Directions

In a large bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.

I add all the vegetables to the marinade and toss them until they’re well coated. Then, I cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (sometimes up to 2 hours for more flavor).

I thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and shapes for a vibrant look.

Then I preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

I grill the skewers for about 10–12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.

Once off the grill, I serve them right away, often with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Calories per serving: 150 kcal

Variations

Add protein: I sometimes include marinated tofu cubes or halloumi cheese on the skewers for extra protein.

Switch the veggies: Eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or corn chunks work well too.

Spice it up: I add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade when I want some heat.

Use fresh herbs only: If I have an herb garden, I always opt for fresh rosemary and thyme for the best flavor.

Citrus twist: A bit of lemon zest or juice in the marinade adds a bright note.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a grill pan or skillet over medium heat just until warmed through. I avoid the microwave if possible to keep the veggies from turning soggy. These skewers are also great cold, tossed into a salad or grain bowl the next day.

FAQs

What vegetables work best for grilling skewers?

I find that firm vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and eggplant hold up best on the grill. They stay tender without falling apart.

Can I make these skewers in advance?

Yes, I often marinate and assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time. I just keep them covered in the fridge until I’m ready to grill.

What if I don’t have a grill?

I use a grill pan on the stovetop or even broil them in the oven if grilling isn’t an option. Both methods work well.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Definitely. When I don’t have fresh on hand, I use about one-third the amount of dried herbs since they’re more concentrated in flavor.

Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they make a great addition to my weekly meal prep. I grill a batch and use them in wraps, salads, or bowls throughout the week.

Conclusion

Grilled vegetable skewers with garlic herb marinade are a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the best of summer produce. The vibrant colors, smoky grill marks, and flavorful marinade make this dish one I return to all season long. Whether I’m serving them as a main or a side, they always bring fresh flavor to the table.

Recipe:

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Garlic Herb Marinade

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

These grilled vegetable skewers with garlic herb marinade are a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. Perfect as a main or hearty side, they’re easy to prepare and ideal for grilling outdoors or indoors.