How to grill restaurant-style vegetables at home

Grilling vegetables imparts a smokey flavour and delightful char that elevates their taste to restaurant quality.

While many of us enjoy grilled vegetables when dining out, replicating that same deliciousness at home may seem daunting.

However, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can easily achieve restaurant-style grilled vegetables in the comfort of your own backyard.

Here are some step-by-step instructions that can help you grill vegetables to perfection at home.

Choosing the right vegetables is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality grilled veggies. Opt for a variety of colourful and firm vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, onions, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. These vegetables hold up well on the grill and offer a beautiful array of flavours and textures.

Before grilling, it’s essential to properly prepare the vegetables. Wash them thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Then, slice the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Larger vegetables like bell peppers and eggplants, can be cut into thick slices or wedges, while smaller ones like cherry tomatoes can be left whole or skewered.

To enhance the flavour of your grilled vegetables, consider marinating them or seasoning them with herbs, spices, and olive oil. You can create a simple marinade using ingredients like balsamic vinegar, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, sprinkle your vegetables with your favourite seasoning blend or fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil before grilling. Allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with flavour.

Preheating your grill is essential for achieving those coveted grill marks and caramelisation on your vegetables. Whether you’re using a gas grill, charcoal grill, or indoor grill pan, preheat it to medium-high heat. This temperature will allow the vegetables to cook through while developing a nice char on the outside.

Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to grill the vegetables. Place the prepared vegetables directly onto the grill grates, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Be mindful not to overcrowd the grill, as this can lead to steaming rather than grilling. Cook the vegetables for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.

To ensure even cooking and caramelisation, flip the vegetables halfway through the grilling process using tongs. You can also rotate them occasionally to promote even charring on all sides. Keep a close eye on the vegetables to prevent burning, adjusting the heat as needed.

To check if the vegetables are done, pierce them with a fork or skewer. They should be tender yet still slightly firm, with caramelised grill marks on the outside. Avoid overcooking the vegetables, as they can become mushy and lose their texture.

Once the vegetables are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Allow the vegetables to rest for a few minutes to let the flavours meld together. Serve them hot as a side dish or as a delicious topping for salads, sandwiches, or pasta.

Before serving, garnish the grilled vegetables with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavour. Then, sit back, relax, and savour the delectable taste of restaurant-style grilled vegetables in the comfort of your own home.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, seasonings, and grilling techniques to find your perfect combination. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard barbecue or a cosy dinner at home, mastering the art of grilling vegetables will impress your family and friends and elevate your culinary skills.