Delightful Grilled Vegetable Platter

Name: Delightful Grilled Vegetable Platter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 yellow squash, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 8 cherry tomatoes; 8 ounces of asparagus, trimmed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), optional

Highlighted under: Clean Eats

I absolutely love creating this Delightful Grilled Vegetable Platter, especially during the summer months when fresh vegetables are at their peak. Each colorful component brings a unique flavor and texture that makes this dish not just visually stunning, but utterly delicious as well. It’s a perfect way to impress guests at a barbecue or simply enjoy a healthy meal on a sunny day. The best part? It takes just 30 minutes to prepare and grill, making it an easily achievable delight any day of the week.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:18:28.982Z

When I first tried grilling vegetables, I was unsure if it could enhance their natural flavors. Yet, with a bit of olive oil and the right seasoning, I discovered a whole new world of taste! Grilling caramelizes the sugars in the veggies, making them sweeter and even more enjoyable. For added depth, I recommend marinating them briefly for a burst of flavor.

This platter isn't just for impressing others; it has become a staple in my home. Pairing the grilled veggies with a tangy balsamic glaze elevates the dish to something extraordinary. Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables—experimenting is half the fun!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and colorful presentation that brightens up any meal
A variety of textures and flavors from fresh seasonal vegetables
Healthy and nutritious, perfect for summer barbecues or meal prep
Quick and easy preparation time, ready in just 30 minutes

Unlocking the Potential of Your Vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables for your grilled platter can elevate your dish significantly. Opt for seasonal vegetables as they are fresher and have peak flavor. The sweetness of the bell peppers, the earthiness of zucchini, and the slight crunch of asparagus create a balanced experience. You can also experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms, which can add an additional depth of flavor when grilled.

The marinade plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of your vegetables. Olive oil helps in achieving a nice char on the grill, while balsamic vinegar adds a tanginess that cuts through the richness. Minced garlic infuses the vegetables with its aromatic quality. Don't hesitate to add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Perfect Grilling Techniques

Preheating the grill ensures that your vegetables cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks. Aim for a medium-high heat, between 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C). You want to hear a satisfying sizzle when the vegetables hit the grill. To prevent sticking, lightly grease the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil before placing the vegetables on.

Keep an eye on the cooking times—soft vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers will typically take about 7-8 minutes per side, while firmer vegetables like asparagus might need a minute or two longer. Consider using a grill basket if you're cooking smaller pieces; it helps prevent them from falling through the grates while still getting that smoky flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh vegetables and seasonings for an irresistible grilled vegetable platter.

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 yellow squash, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
8 cherry tomatoes
8 ounces of asparagus, trimmed

Marinade

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), optional

Mix the vegetables and marinade together and get ready to fire up the grill!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious grilled vegetable platter.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If desired, add fresh herbs for added flavor.

Marinate the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced vegetables. Pour the marinade over them and toss until all pieces are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

While the vegetables are marinating, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Vegetables

Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Cherry tomatoes may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!

Serve and Enjoy

Once grilled, remove the vegetables from the grill and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired. Serve warm.

Grilled vegetables can be served as a side dish, on top of salads, or as a hearty topping for your favorite grain bowls.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by using any of your favorite seasonal vegetables. If you'd like to add a smoky flavor, consider using a smoked paprika in the marinade.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Delightful Grilled Vegetable Platter is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic make-ahead option. You can marinate the vegetables up to 4 hours in advance. Just make sure to keep the marinated vegetables covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill them. This allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite more tantalizing.

If you have leftovers, store the grilled vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They can be enjoyed cold in salads or reheated in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook when reheating, as the vegetables may lose their desired texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, arrange the grilled vegetables in a rainbow pattern on a large serving platter. There’s something visually appealing about the contrast of colors that will make your dish pop at any gathering. Drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze over the top for a glossy finish and extra flavor.

Consider pairing this platter with a protein, like grilled chicken or fish, to create a well-rounded meal. You might also enjoy serving it alongside a tangy yogurt dip or pesto for adding another layer of taste. The versatility of this dish means you can easily adapt it to fit your meal needs or themes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh vegetables, as frozen ones may not grill well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and dry them first.

→ What can I serve with the grilled vegetable platter?

These grilled vegetables pair wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or can be incorporated into sandwiches or wraps.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in a skillet.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are vegan-friendly. Just ensure any additional condiments or dips you serve with it are also vegan.