Vegetarian BBQ Ideas: Beyond Burgers and Hot Dogs
When it comes to backyard barbecues, we often associate the grill with juicy burgers and sizzling hot dogs. However, if you follow a plant-based diet or have vegetarian friends joining your gathering, it’s essential to have some delicious and creative alternatives available. Fear not, because today we will be exploring some fantastic vegetarian BBQ ideas that go beyond the traditional meat options.
1. Grilled Veggie Skewers: Skewers are not only visually appealing but also provide a smoky and flavorful experience. Load them with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, and pineapple chunks. Marinate the veggies in a blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices for a burst of scrumptious flavor.
2. Portobello Mushroom Burgers: If you crave that delicious burger experience, why not give portobello mushrooms a try? These hearty fungi make a fantastic meat alternative due to their meaty texture. Marinate the portobello caps in balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Grill them to perfection and serve on a bun with your favorite condiments and toppings.
3. Grilled Halloumi: Halloumi, a semi-hard cheese originating from Cyprus, is the perfect addition to your vegetarian BBQ. It has a high melting point, making it suitable for grilling. Slice the halloumi into thick pieces, brush them with olive oil, and grill until they develop those beautiful char marks. Serve them on a platter with lemon wedges for a tangy and salty treat.
4. BBQ Cauliflower Wings: Vegan or not, BBQ cauliflower wings are a crowd-pleaser. Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets, dip them in a batter made of flour, almond milk, and spices, and then bake or grill until crispy. Finish them off by brushing with your favorite barbecue sauce and serve with a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing.
5. Grilled Watermelon: Yes, you read that right! Grilled watermelon is a surprising and refreshing addition to any vegetarian BBQ. Slice watermelon into thick wedges, brush them with olive oil, and grill until you see grill marks appearing. The heat from the grill intensifies the watermelon’s natural sweetness while adding a smoky element. Serve it with feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavor explosion.
6. BBQ Jackfruit Sliders: Jackfruit is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and has gained popularity as a meat substitute due to its pulled pork-like texture. Drain canned jackfruit, shred it with a fork, and simmer it in a delicious barbecue sauce. Pile the mixture onto mini slider buns and serve with coleslaw for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish, but grilling it takes the flavor to a whole new level. Soak the corn in water for 15 minutes, then grill it in its husk for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. Once cooked, remove the husk and brush the corn with melted butter or a vegan alternative. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili powder for a zesty kick.
Don’t limit yourself to burgers and hot dogs when planning your next vegetarian-friendly BBQ. Experiment with these unique and flavorful options to cater to everyone’s taste buds. Who knows, you might even inspire your meat-loving guests to try something new and embrace plant-based alternatives. Happy grilling!
