Marinated Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Name: Marinated Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 8 cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love whipping up these Marinated Grilled Vegetable Skewers for a flavorful and vibrant addition to any barbecue. The combination of fresh vegetables, marinated in a zesty mixture, transforms ordinary grilling into something extraordinary. Plus, the vibrant colors not only appeal to the eyes but also to the palate. Each bite is a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with my favorite dipping sauces. It's a simple yet effective way to enjoy more veggies while delighting friends and family during those warm summer evenings.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:41:27.262Z

I remember the first time I made these skewers. It was a warm summer evening, and my friends were coming over for a barbecue. I wanted something fresh and vibrant, so I combined bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions with a tangy marinade. The aroma alone was enough to whet our appetites!

After grilling, the veggies had a smoky flavor that perfectly balanced the marinade’s acidity. I learned that letting them soak for at least an hour ensures they soak up all the flavors. Serve them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra kick!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Vibrant colors that make your plate pop
Simple marinade that enhances the natural flavors
Great as a side dish or as a main for vegetarians

Mastering Your Marinade

The marinade for these skewers is a game changer. Olive oil not only provides a rich, smooth texture but also helps the flavors of garlic and oregano to penetrate the vegetables. Make sure to mince the garlic finely; this ensures a more even distribution of flavor throughout the marinade. For a fresh twist, you can experiment with different vinegars like red wine or apple cider vinegar, but balsamic adds a unique sweetness that complements the veggies wonderfully.

Don't rush the marinating process. Allowing the vegetables to soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes is critical for flavor infusion. You can even marinate them for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for a more intense taste. Just remember to give them a gentle toss halfway through to make sure every piece gets a good coating.

Grilling Techniques

When it's time to grill, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grates before placing the skewers on the grill. Aim for a cooking time of about 10 minutes, but keep an eye on them! Look for those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization on the vegetables, which indicate they’re perfectly cooked. If you notice the edges starting to char too quickly, lower the heat slightly.

If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your skewers stay intact, holding all the delicious vegetables. Alternatively, metal skewers are a great option and don't require soaking, while also adding a touch of elegance to your presentation.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh vegetables and marinade ingredients before you start.

Ingredients

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 red onion, cut into wedges
8 cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes if using wooden ones to prevent burning.

Instructions

Prepare all your ingredients and preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Marinate the Vegetables

Add the cut vegetables to the marinade and toss to coat. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for a colorful presentation.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have grill marks.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve warm. You can sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Enjoy these skewers warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding marinated tofu or halloumi to the skewer mix.

Perfect Pairings

These marinated grilled vegetable skewers are incredibly versatile. They can stand alone as a satisfying main dish, especially for vegetarian guests, or serve as an eye-catching side to grilled meats. For a delightful meal, try pairing them with a refreshing tzatziki or a zesty chimichurri sauce for dipping. The creamy and tangy notes from these sauces balance beautifully with the smoky, charred flavors of the grilled veggies.

For a more substantial option, consider serving the skewers over a bed of couscous or quinoa. This not only adds an additional texture but also makes the dish more filling. Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or mint to brighten up the flavors and tie everything together.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These skewers are a breeze to prepare in advance. You can marinate the vegetables the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just keep them in an airtight container to lock in flavor. This saves time on busy barbecue days and allows the flavors to develop even more, making your grilled dish even tastier.

If you have leftovers, no worries! They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back on a preheated grill or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This method helps retain their original texture and flavor without making them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, asparagus, or eggplant.

→ How long can I marinate the vegetables?

You can marinate the vegetables for up to 24 hours in the fridge for an even richer flavor.

→ Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These skewers can be prepared a day ahead of time and grilled just before serving.

→ Can I cook them in the oven?

Yes! You can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.