Oh, my goodness! If you’re in the mood for a dish that feels like summer on a plate, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite – Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just a delightful way to showcase fresh veggies; it’s also a family staple. I can vividly recall summer barbecues where these gorgeous, colorful vegetables danced on the grill, filling the air with a divine aroma. Plus, it’s an easy-peasy way to impress your friends at a gathering, and trust me, they’ll be begging for the recipe!
What I adore about this dish is the punchy flavor that the balsamic marinade brings. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and oh-so-delicious when those veggies get that lovely char on them! The best part? You can mix and match the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making this one of the most versatile recipes out there.
What’s in Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables?
Balsamic Vinegar: The star of this marinade! Balsamic vinegar gives that rich, tangy flavor that elevates the vegetables. I like to use a good-quality balsamic; the thicker and sweeter, the better.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil helps to carry the flavors while keeping the veggies moist during grilling. Extra virgin is my go-to for the best flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant kick. I recommend going for fresh garlic rather than powdered for that punchy taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness balances out the tartness of the balsamic. If you’re vegan, you can swap honey for maple syrup.
Vegetables: You can really get creative here, but I love using zucchini, bell peppers, red onions, and asparagus. They grill beautifully and soak up the marinade like a dream!
Is Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also packed with health benefits.
Vegetables: The array of vegetables you choose will provide various vitamins and minerals. For example, bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while zucchini is a great source of hydration and fiber.
Olive Oil: It’s a heart-healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and is full of antioxidants. Plus, it adds a luscious flavor!
Balsamic Vinegar: It may help with blood sugar control and contains some antioxidants as well. Just remember, moderation is key; a little goes a long way!
However, if you’re watching your sugar intake, be mindful of how much honey or maple syrup you add to the marinade.
Ingredients
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color you prefer)
– 1 red onion, cut into wedges
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4-6 people*
How to Make Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables?
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and honey or maple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, onions, and asparagus to the bowl. Toss everything to ensure the veggies are well-coated in the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to a zip-top bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for maximum flavor absorption.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill basket, now is the time to get that guy greased up!
5. Remove the vegetables from the marinade (don’t throw away the marinade just yet!) and arrange them on the grill in a single layer.
6. Grill the veggies for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
7. Meanwhile, you can lightly simmer the leftover marinade in a small pot on the stove for a couple of minutes to use as a drizzle over the finished veggies, enhancing the flavor even more.
8. Once the vegetables are done, serve them warm. Drizzle with the reduced marinade if desired, and enjoy the fantastic burst of flavors!
Serve it Up!
If you’re looking for ways to enjoy these zesty favorites, I have a few tips! These grilled veggies are fabulous as a side dish, but you can also toss them into salads, mix them with pasta, or even use them as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. They’re so versatile they’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
I hope you find as much joy in making these Zesty Balsamic Marinated Grilled Vegetables as I do! When you take that first bite and the flavors explode in your mouth, you’ll understand why they’ve stolen my heart! I’d absolutely love to hear how your grilling adventures go, so feel free to share your experience and any personal twists you put on this delightful recipe! Happy grilling!
