Imagine transforming ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that transports you straight to the vibrant markets of Marrakech! These Grilled Moroccan Vegetable Skewers are not just a side dish - they're a sensory journey that will revolutionize your grilling game. Packed with bold spices, colorful bell peppers, and a tantalizing blend of smoky and aromatic flavors, this recipe promises to turn even the most vegetable-skeptical dinner guests into enthusiastic fans.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning if using wooden skewers. If using metal skewers, skip this step.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade for the vegetables.
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting red and yellow bell peppers into uniform 1-inch chunks, slice zucchini into half-moon shapes, cut red onion into chunky pieces, and keep cherry tomatoes whole.
- Place all prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl and pour the spiced olive oil marinade over them. Gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high stovetop heat.
- Thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for visual appeal. Leave a small space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the vegetable skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even charring and cooking on all sides.
- Check for doneness by looking for slight char marks and vegetables that are tender but still maintain their structure.
- Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and serve immediately with couscous or flatbread.
Tips
- Skewer Preparation: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning, or invest in quality metal skewers for easier grilling.
- Marinade Magic: Allow vegetables to marinate for 15-30 minutes before grilling to maximize flavor absorption. The longer they sit, the more intense the spice profile becomes.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat (400-450°F) for perfect charring without burning.
- Visual Appeal: Alternate colors and vegetable types on skewers for a stunning presentation that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Don't Overcrowd: Leave small spaces between vegetable pieces on skewers to promote even heat circulation and prevent steaming.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with fluffy couscous or warm flatbread to complete your Moroccan-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
