Imagine transporting your taste buds to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one simple, mouthwatering dish. These Easy Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables are not just a side dish – they're a culinary journey that promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Bursting with vibrant colors, rich flavors, and nutritious goodness, this recipe is about to become your new go-to for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a healthy, delicious meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables by washing them thoroughly. Slice the zucchini into 1/2-inch thick rounds, chop the bell pepper into medium-sized pieces, cut the red onion into wedges, and leave the cherry tomatoes whole.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using an indoor grill pan, ensure it is well-heated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared vegetables. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Arrange the vegetables on the grill in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This will help them cook evenly and develop beautiful grill marks.
- Grill the vegetables for 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even charring and cooking on all sides. The zucchini and bell peppers should be tender with slight caramelization.
- Remove the grilled vegetables from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Vegetable Preparation: Ensure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes to promote even cooking. Aim for about 1/2-inch thick cuts to prevent burning and ensure perfect tenderness.
- Oil and Seasoning: Don't be shy with olive oil – it helps prevent sticking and adds authentic Mediterranean flavor. Massage the oil and herbs into the vegetables for maximum flavor absorption.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat (400-450°F) for optimal caramelization. Too low, and your vegetables will steam; too high, and they'll burn.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give your vegetables breathing room on the grill. Overcrowding prevents proper charring and can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
- Timing is Key: Watch your vegetables closely. Most will take 6-8 minutes, but some might cook faster. Look for slight caramelization and tender texture.
- Optional Enhancement: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
