Understanding the Basics of Grilling Vegetables on a Charcoal BBQ
Grilling vegetables on a charcoal BBQ is one of the best ways to bring out their natural flavors. It’s a healthy and delicious way of cooking veggies that provides unique tastes and textures that you can only get from an open flame. However, grilling vegetables on a charcoal BBQ is quite different from grilling meat. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to grill vegetables on a charcoal BBQ and provide some tips to help you get the perfect dish every time.
Choose the Right Vegetables
One of the essential things you need to do before grilling vegetables on a charcoal BBQ is choosing the right vegetables. Not all vegetables hold up on the BBQ, and some cook much faster than others. Firm and dense vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant work better than softer veggies like tomatoes and mushrooms. Also, try to choose vegetables that are fresh and in season. The flavors are better, and the produce is typically more affordable.
Prepare the Vegetables
Once you’ve selected the vegetables you want to grill, the next step is to prepare them. Start by washing them thoroughly and then slice them into even pieces. The size of the slices will depend on how you plan to use the vegetables in your dish. Some vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers can be cut into thick slices or quarters, while others like asparagus and green onions work better in thinner slices. Remember to brush the cut surfaces of the vegetables with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and improve browning.
Set Up Your Charcoal Grill
Setting up your charcoal grill correctly is critical to the success of your vegetable grilling efforts. Start by lighting the charcoal in a chimney starter using either wood chips or lighter fluid. Once the coals are hot, dump them into the grill and spread them out evenly. To cook vegetables, you’ll need a medium to high heat. Arrange the vegetables on the grate, and use tongs to turn them occasionally to cook evenly. Note that some vegetables take longer to cook than others, so plan your grilling accordingly.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your vegetables are crispy and tender, remove them from the grill, and let them cool for a few minutes. You can either serve them as is or add them to your favorite salad, pasta dish, or grilled sandwich. Grilled vegetables are delicious with a little balsamic vinaigrette or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. They make an excellent side dish or main course and can be made in advance, making them perfect for meal prep lunches and dinners.
