9 Best Vegetables for Grilling and Outdoor Cooking

Looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game? Grilling vegetables is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy your favorite produce. 

In this article, we'll explore the 9 best vegetables for grilling, from classic choices like corn and bell peppers to more unique options like portobello mushrooms and asparagus. 

Discover tips for preparing and seasoning your veggies for the grill, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound grilling expertise.

1. Asparagus

A vibrant bunch of fresh green asparagus spears, neatly arranged and ready to be cooked.

Asparagus is a powerhouse vegetable known for its unique flavor and nutritional profile. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, and folate. Asparagus is also high in fiber, which helps promote digestion and overall gut health.

The key nutrients in asparagus provide a range of health benefits. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Folate is important for cell growth and development, making asparagus a great choice for pregnant women.

Serving suggestions for asparagus include grilling with olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a simple and flavorful side dish. Asparagus can also be added to salads, pasta dishes, or omelets for a nutritious boost. 

2. Mushrooms

"A variety of mushrooms, earthy in color and assorted shapes, arranged to display their natural textures and flavors."

Mushrooms are a fantastic addition to any grilling menu, offering a unique earthy flavor and meaty texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Not only are mushrooms delicious, but they are also low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a healthy choice for outdoor cooking.

Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, which are essential for converting food into energy. They also contain important minerals such as selenium, copper, and potassium. Additionally, mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Some specific health benefits of mushrooms include boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. They are also a great source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help with weight management.

Serving suggestions for mushrooms include grilling them on skewers with other vegetables, adding them to salads or pasta dishes, or even using them as a meat substitute in burgers or tacos.

3. Eggplant

"A close-up of eggplant, deep purple in color, sliced and arranged, highlighting its glossy skin and firm texture."

Eggplant is a nutritious vegetable with a unique flavor and texture that makes it a great choice for grilling. It is low in calories and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Eggplant is rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A and C, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. It also contains potassium, which is important for heart health and regulating blood pressure.

The health benefits of eggplant include promoting healthy digestion, improving blood circulation, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Grilling eggplant can help retain its nutrients and natural flavors, making it a delicious and healthy option for vegetarian dishes.

Some serving suggestions for grilled eggplant include using it as a topping for salads, sandwiches, or pizzas, or incorporating it into pasta dishes or wraps. You can also enjoy grilled eggplant as a side dish or appetizer with a dip or sauce.

4. Tomatoes

"Fresh tomatoes, red and ripe, whole and sliced, showcasing their juicy texture and vibrant color."

Tomatoes are a versatile vegetable for grilling that not only adds a unique smoky flavor but also provides a plethora of nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

In addition to lycopene, tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients can help boost the immune system, regulate blood pressure, and aid in digestion.

Serving Suggestions for grilled tomatoes include adding them to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a side dish or snack. Grilled tomatoes can also be blended into a sauce or salsa for added flavor.

5. Zucchini

"Fresh zucchini, sliced and arranged, showcasing their vibrant green skin and tender texture."

Zucchini is not only a delicious addition to any grilled dish, but it also packs a nutritional punch. This versatile vegetable is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for weight management and overall digestive health.

Zucchini is also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and manganese, which are all essential nutrients for maintaining a healthy immune system and regulating blood pressure. 

Additionally, zucchini contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein, which can help protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Serving suggestions for zucchini include grilling it with other vegetables for a colorful veggie skewer, adding it to pasta dishes or salads, or using it as a taco filling. 

6. Grilled Peppers

image showcasing vibrant grilled peppers, presented on a rustic wooden cutting board with a warm, summer barbecue ambiance.

Grilled peppers are not only delicious, but they also offer a range of important nutrients that can benefit your health. Peppers are a great source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune function and skin health. 

They also contain vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, peppers are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

When it comes to serving suggestions, grilled peppers can be enjoyed on their own as a side dish, or added to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes for added flavor and nutrition. They can also be stuffed with grains, beans, and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.

7. Broccoli

A fresh head of broccoli with dark green florets and a sturdy stem, isolated on a white background.

Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is not only delicious when grilled but also offers a wide range of health benefits. This green veggie is packed with key nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. Vitamin C is essential for immune function and skin health, while vitamin K is important for bone health and blood clotting. Folate plays a crucial role in cell division and DNA synthesis, making it important for overall health. The fiber content in broccoli helps with digestion and can aid in weight management.

In terms of health benefits, broccoli has been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The antioxidants in broccoli help to combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to disease development.

Serving suggestions for grilled broccoli include adding it as a side dish to grilled meats or incorporating it into salads and pasta dishes. The versatility of grilled broccoli makes it an easy and delicious way to boost the nutritional content of your meals.

8. Cauliflower

A whole, fresh cauliflower with creamy white florets and green leaves, on a light background.

Cauliflower is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is perfect for grilling and outdoor cooking. This low-calorie vegetable is packed with essential nutrients that are beneficial for overall health. 

Cauliflower is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, which are important for immune function, blood clotting, and cell growth. It also contains fiber, which aids in digestion and helps with weight management.

Grilling cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that enhances its taste. This cooking method also helps to retain the vegetable's nutrients, making it a healthy option for outdoor cooking. The high levels of antioxidants in cauliflower can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Serving suggestions for grilled cauliflower include tossing it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling, or adding it to skewers with other vegetables for a delicious and colorful side dish.

9. Oninons

image showcasing onions in various states, highlighting their natural beauty and texture on a rustic kitchen counter.

Onions are not only a flavorful addition to your grilled dishes, but they also offer a variety of health benefits. They are low in calories and a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full longer. 

Onions also contain vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and promote skin health. 

Additionally, they are rich in sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Grilled onions make a great topping for burgers or hot dogs.

  • Add grilled onions to salads or sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.

  • Make a delicious onion relish by mixing grilled onions with vinegar, sugar, and spices.

  • Use grilled onions as a side dish for grilled meats or vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these 9 best vegetables for grilling. From smoky grilled peppers to charred corn on the cob, these flavorful options will impress your guests and add a fresh twist to your BBQ spread. So fire up the grill, embrace the sizzle and enjoy the delicious and healthy flavors of these grilled veggies. 

Let your creativity shine as you experiment with different seasonings and marinades to take your outdoor cooking to the next level. Happy grilling!