Ah, the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas of grilled vegetables bring back so many lovely summer memories! The moment I fire up the grill, I feel like a kid again, waiting for those first juicy bites of veggie goodness. Marinating vegetables in a zesty balsamic dressing not only enhances their natural flavors but also makes them super tender and delicious. I remember hosting backyard BBQs where friends would rave about the grilled vegetables more than the main course – and that’s the magic of this recipe!
What I love most about these Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables is how versatile they are. They can accompany just about any meal, serve as a colorful side dish at picnics, or even steal the show at a meatless gathering. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up! You’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for those occasions when you just want to impress without much fuss.
What’s in Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables?
Bell Peppers: These beauties come in various colors, each adding a unique sweetness and vibrancy. I usually choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for that stunning presentation!
Zucchini: Zucchini is super tender when grilled and adds a lovely rustic flavor. Look for firm, glossy ones without blemishes.
Red Onion: I love using red onion for its milder sweetness. When grilled, they become caramelized and absolutely divine.
Cherry Tomatoes: Adding bursts of sweetness, these little gems pop perfectly when grilled. Make sure to choose firm ones for the best flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: The star of the show! Its unique tanginess brings all the components together wonderfully. I prefer aged balsamic for its rich flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the richness of the vegetables while helping the marinade cling beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and a savory kick. I always go for minced garlic to maximize that flavor infusion.
Herbs (like thyme or rosemary): Fresh herbs elevate the dish, adding an aromatic touch. You can mix and match based on your personal preference!
Is Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a feast for the eyes and the body.
Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, these colorful veggies help boost your immune system and give your skin a healthy glow.
Zucchini: Low in calories and high in fiber, zucchini makes you feel full without all the extra calories.
Red Onion: Rich in antioxidants, it promotes heart health and adds those yummy anti-inflammatory properties.
Cherry Tomatoes: They’re bursting with vitamins C and K and are also great for hydration – so fresh and juicy!
The only downside? You might want to watch how much of that balsamic vinegar you use if you’re sensitive to acidity, but overall, it’s a vibrant addition to a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
– 2 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 red onion
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables?
1. Start by prepping your veggies: wash and dry your bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Slice your bell peppers into strips, the zucchini into rounds, and cut the red onion into thick rings.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped vegetables to the bowl and toss everything until the veggies are well-coated in that zesty marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor!).
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you have a grill basket, use it; otherwise, make sure to oil your grill grates well.
5. Once the grill is heated, add the marinated vegetables. Grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and beautifully charred.
6. Remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy warm!
Flavor Enhancements & Serving Suggestions
To amp up your grilled vegetable game, feel free to drizzle some feta or goat cheese on top right before serving for an extra creamy touch! You can also mix in some other seasonal veggies like asparagus or eggplant based on what you have on hand. These grilled veggies make a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a tasty topping for grilled pizzas.
I truly hope you give this recipe a try! There’s something so delightful about sharing a colorful platter of grilled veggies with friends and family. If you make it, I’d love to hear your feedback or see photos of your creations. Happy cooking!
