The time is almost upon us where we will all be sitting out on the garden enjoying beers, catching some rays and eating lots of amazing food with our family and friends. Barbecue season is always a fun season and it is the ideal time for us to chill out and enjoy some time in the sun while catching up with our loved ones.
However, as we know, a lot of barbecue foods revolve around meat, and if you aren’t a meat eater this can make you feel as if you have pretty limited options for your meal. The good news is that today we are going to take a deeper look into some of the vegetarian dishes and sides you can bring to the grill this summer so that you can enjoy a diverse barbecue too!
1. Grilled Pineapple
During a summer barbecue, you will likely be drinking more cocktails and fun drinks, and our first grilled option can be used as a snack or even as a topper for your pina colada.
All you will need for this simple recipe is pineapple slices and some cinnamon. Sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon onto your pineapple and grill until blackened on both sides. Enjoy!
2. Grilled Halloumi
For anyone who doesn’t eat meat and wants something which is still fun and tasty, a halloumi is a great option for you.
To grill halloumi for your barbecue, simply slice 1 inch thick slices of halloumi, and then brush with a small amount of olive oil and mixed herbs.
Grill for 2 minutes on each side and this will make a herby and filling side dish or the perfect accompaniment to couscous and a burger.
3. Zesty Couscous
Speaking of couscous… this has to be one of the most popular party side dishes of all time and it couldn’t be more simple for you to make. Per 4 person serving you will need:
- 200g couscous
- 300ml boiling water
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tsp mixed herbs (Italian herbs)
- 2 tsp cumin
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
To assemble this dish, mix all of the spices, the zest, and juice into dried couscous. Pour boiling water on top and cover with cling film for 5-10 minutes. Fluff up with a fork and you are ready to go!
4. Mexican Stuffed Peppers
When it comes to filling dishes for a vegetarian barbecue, this next dish has to be one of the stars of the show. To make this dish for 4 people you will need:
- 4 bell peppers, cored and halved
- 100g cooked rice
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 can salsa
- Jalapeno slices (if you like spice)
- 1 cup Mexican cheese
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
To assemble this amazing dish you will first want to grill your bell peppers on each side for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix the rice, refried beans, salsa and half of the cheese in a bowl.
Fill the peppers with your mixture and place back in on the grill.
Add cheese on top and let it melt. Top with sour cream and guacamole for a fresh Mexican barbecue food!
5. Caprese Salad
If you are looking for a salad idea which is a little more exciting than the regular garden salad usually served at a barbecue, this next one is ideal for you. Caprese salad is an Italian salad which comprises of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. It is a great side dish to keep out because it will refresh everyone at the table and it will be amazing. To make this salad you will need:
- 4 Beef tomatoes
- 2 large mozzarella balls
- A bunch basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
To make this salad you will want to slice up your tomatoes and mozzarella, and then layer them in a circular dish in the following order: tomato, basil, mozzarella, basil…etc… and carry on until you have filled a dish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for acidic flare and this will be amazing when laid out on the table.
6. Baked Sweet Potato
If you are looking for a super simple meal which will satisfy you during your barbecue, a baked potato is always a great idea.
To create a perfect baked potato on the grill, you should wrap up your potato in a foil packet with butter, salt, and pepper and poke some holes with a fork. Grill for 10 minutes or until soft, and then unwrap and grill on each side for a few minutes to crisp up the skins.
7. Grilled Potato Wedges
One of the side dishes we recommend for any summer party has to be potato wedges. Potato wedges are amazing in the oven, and when they have been grilled on the barbecue they reach another level entirely. To make the ideal potato wedges you will need:
- 2 large potatoes
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tbsp butter
To prepare your potatoes, cut them into thick wedges and boil for around 5-6 minutes to help them soften and begin to cook. Once parboiled, place in a bowl and mix with the seasonings and butter. Grill for around 8 minutes on each side and they will be perfect!
8. Simple Hummus
Houmous is one of those foods which is ideal for any party because it can be used to season chicken and coat ribs; as a dip for chips; or as a sauce for your burger. To make a simple houmous you only need a few key ingredients and it will be a crowd pleaser for sure.
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and wiped dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp salt
All you need to do in order to make this dish is blend everything until smooth, and you can adjust tahini, salt, and garlic to taste as you go.
Hopefully, after today, you will have all of the best dishes for your next party so that you can enjoy some wonderful summer vegetarian dishes!
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