Introduction: BBQs and Vegetarianism
Summer is the perfect time for outdoor BBQs and get-togethers with friends and family. However, if you’re hosting a BBQ and have vegetarian guests, it can be challenging to know what to serve them. It’s essential to ensure that your vegetarian guests have a variety of delicious options that are just as satisfying as meat dishes.
Fortunately, there are plenty of vegetarian options that you can serve at a BBQ. From grilled veggies to veggie burgers, tofu, and salads, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options for serving vegetarians at a BBQ.
Grilled Veggies: A Classic Vegetarian Option
Grilled veggies are a classic vegetarian option at a BBQ. You can grill almost any vegetable, including bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and mushrooms. Grilling vegetables bring out their natural sweetness, and the smoky flavor adds a delicious depth of flavor. You can season the veggies with garlic, salt, and pepper or use a marinade for extra flavor.
One great way to serve grilled veggies is to put them on a skewer. Not only does this make it easy to grill them, but it also makes for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve them as a side dish or add them to a salad for a healthy and tasty meal.
Veggie Burgers: A Meat-Free Alternative
Veggie burgers are a great meat-free alternative for vegetarians at a BBQ. There are many different types of veggie burgers available, including black bean, chickpea, quinoa, and mushroom burgers. You can also make your own veggie burgers with a variety of ingredients, including lentils, sweet potatoes, and beets.
When grilling veggie burgers, it’s essential to keep them from falling apart. You can do this by brushing them with oil to keep them moist or using a grilling basket. Serve the veggie burgers on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, tomato, and lettuce.
Tofu: A Versatile BBQ Ingredient
Tofu is a versatile ingredient that’s perfect for grilling at a BBQ. It’s high in protein and absorbs flavors well, making it a great meat substitute. You can marinate tofu in your favorite sauce or seasoning and grill it until crispy on the outside.
One great way to serve tofu at a BBQ is to make tofu skewers. Cut the tofu into cubes and thread them onto a skewer with veggies like peppers and onions. Grill the skewers until the tofu is crispy and the veggies are tender.
Portobello Mushrooms: The Perfect Meat Substitute
Portobello mushrooms are another great meat substitute that you can serve at a BBQ. They have a meaty texture and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for grilling. You can marinate the mushrooms in a sauce or seasoning, or brush them with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
To serve the mushrooms, grill them until they’re tender and juicy. You can serve them on a bun like a burger or as a side dish with grilled veggies.
Grilled Halloumi: A Delicious Vegetarian Cheese
Grilled halloumi is a delicious vegetarian cheese that’s perfect for a BBQ. It has a high melting point, so it’s perfect for grilling. Halloumi has a salty and tangy flavor that pairs well with grilled veggies and salads.
To grill halloumi, slice it into thick slices and brush it with oil. Grill the cheese until it’s crispy and golden brown. Serve it as a side dish or add it to a salad for extra protein.
Veggie Skewers: A Colorful and Tasty Option
Veggie skewers are a colorful and tasty option for vegetarians at a BBQ. You can make the skewers with a variety of veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, and onions. Skewers are easy to grill and make for a beautiful presentation.
To make veggie skewers, cut the veggies into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto a skewer. Brush the skewers with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the skewers until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
Grilled Corn: A Simple and Flavorful Side Dish
Grilled corn is a simple and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a BBQ. It’s easy to prepare and adds a pop of color to the table. You can grill the corn on the cob or cut it off the cob and serve it as a salad.
To grill corn on the cob, brush it with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn until it’s slightly charred and tender. Serve the corn with butter and your favorite herbs and spices.
Salads: A Fresh and Healthy BBQ Addition
Salads are a fresh and healthy addition to any BBQ, and there are plenty of vegetarian options to choose from. You can make a classic Greek salad with feta cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives or a Caesar salad with croutons and parmesan cheese.
To make a vegetarian salad, use fresh greens like spinach, kale, or arugula. Add veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and carrots. You can also add protein sources like tofu, chickpeas, or quinoa.
Desserts: Sweet Treats for Vegetarians
Desserts are a sweet treat for vegetarians at a BBQ. There are plenty of vegetarian dessert options to choose from, including fruit salad, grilled fruit skewers, and ice cream sundaes.
To make a fruit salad, chop up a variety of fruits like strawberries, watermelon, and mango. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. For grilled fruit skewers, thread the fruit onto a skewer and grill until slightly charred.
In conclusion, there are plenty of delicious vegetarian options that you can serve at a BBQ. From grilled veggies to veggie burgers, tofu, and salads, there’s something for everyone. By offering a variety of vegetarian options, you can ensure that all your guests are satisfied and happy.
