Grilled Veggie Kebabs

Grilled Veggie Kebabs: A Delicious Gluten-Free BBQ Delight

Ever wondered how to elevate your summer barbecue game while catering to dietary restrictions? Look no further than these mouthwatering gluten-free veggie kebabs! Packed with flavor and nutrition, these colorful skewers are sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

These gluten-free veggie kebabs are not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect solution for those seeking a celiac grill idea. With a variety of vegetables and a tantalizing marinade, you’ll create a dish that’s both healthy and irresistible.

Ingredients List

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1-inch rounds
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 8 oz button mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For a twist, try substituting eggplant for zucchini or add some gluten-free halloumi cheese for extra protein. The vibrant colors and varied textures will make these kebabs a visual and gustatory delight!

Timing

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 2 minutes

This recipe takes 25% less time than traditional meat kebabs, making it a quick and efficient option for busy weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This aromatic blend will infuse your vegetables with Mediterranean flavors, elevating your gluten-free veggie kebabs to gourmet status.

Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables

Add all the prepared vegetables to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss to ensure each piece is well-coated. Let the vegetables marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs

Thread the marinated vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating colors and textures for visual appeal. Leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for creating kebabs that are both beautiful and perfectly grilled.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

While assembling the kebabs, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with white ash for optimal temperature.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

1. Place the kebabs on the preheated grill.
2. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, rotating occasionally for even charring.
3. The kebabs are done when the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite. Serve hot and savor the delicious taste of summer!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 kebabs):
Calories: 180
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 15mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 4g

These gluten-free veggie kebabs are not only delicious but also nutritionally dense. They provide 15% of your daily fiber needs and are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this recipe even healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use a low-sodium tamari instead of salt for a umami boost without extra sodium.
• Swap olive oil for avocado oil to increase the smoke point and healthy fat content.
• Add cubed tofu or tempeh for extra protein, making it a complete meal.
• Incorporate more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for additional cancer-fighting compounds.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your gluten-free veggie kebabs with these creative serving ideas:

• Serve over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a hearty, gluten-free meal.
• Pair with a refreshing tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
• Wrap in gluten-free pita bread with hummus for a handheld option.
• Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light summer dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the skewers: Leave space between vegetables for even cooking.
2. Neglecting to soak wooden skewers: This can lead to burning and splintering.
3. Using high heat: Medium-high is ideal to avoid charring the outside while leaving the inside raw.
4. Forgetting to oil the grill: A light coating prevents sticking and ensures easy flipping.
5. Not accounting for different cooking times: Group vegetables with similar cooking times together.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your kebabs:

• Store leftover grilled kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For meal prep, assemble raw kebabs and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.
• Freeze uncooked, marinated vegetables separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling and grilling.
• Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or on the grill for 2-3 minutes per side.

Conclusion

These vibrant and flavorful gluten-free veggie kebabs are the perfect addition to your summer grilling repertoire. They’re not only delicious and visually appealing but also accommodate various dietary needs, making them a versatile choice for any gathering.

Ready to fire up the grill? Give these kebabs a try and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our other gluten-free BBQ recipes for more inspiration. Happy grilling!