15 Vegetarian Grilling Ideas for Summer

As someone who loves to grill, I’ve found that summer is the perfect time to explore fresh, plant-based grilling ideas.

Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, grilling can bring out rich flavors in vegetables, fruits, and even plant-based proteins.

Over the years, I’ve tried different grilling techniques, and I’ve realized that grilling veggies enhances their natural sweetness and smokiness, making them just as satisfying as any meat-based dish. Here are my top 5 vegetarian grilling ideas that are perfect for summer.

These recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for your next BBQ or weeknight dinner!

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful and nutrient-packed dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies. The combination of smoky flavors and a touch of char makes this a delicious summer treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the veggies onto skewers, alternating colors and types.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, until veggies are tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or fresh herbs.

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2. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

These grilled Portobello mushrooms are an excellent alternative to meat burgers. The mushrooms are juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect hearty, plant-based option.

Ingredients:

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 whole wheat burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, and onion for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the mushrooms with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the mushrooms for 5-6 minutes per side, until tender and juicy.
4. Toast the buns on the grill for about 1 minute.
5. Assemble the burgers by placing the grilled mushrooms on the buns and topping with lettuce, tomato, and onion.

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3. Grilled Veggie Tacos

These grilled veggie tacos are a delicious, healthy, and quick meal. They’re packed with grilled veggies and topped with a tangy lime crema for a refreshing bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• ¼ cup sour cream or vegan yogurt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Warm the tortillas on the grill for 1 minute.
5. Assemble the tacos by adding grilled vegetables, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of lime crema.

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4. Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Grilled sweet potato wedges are a sweet and savory side dish. The grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making them perfect for a summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Grill the sweet potatoes for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dipping sauce.

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5. Grilled Eggplant Steaks

Grilled eggplant steaks are a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option that is perfect for a light summer meal. The smoky flavor and tender texture make these steaks delicious and filling.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, cut into thick slices
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant for 5-6 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
4. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra flavor.

6. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Grilled cauliflower steaks are a hearty, low-calorie option that’s perfect for those looking to eat more vegetables. The grilling enhances the cauliflower’s natural flavors, making it a filling and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower head, sliced into thick steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley.
5. Serve as a main dish or side with grilled protein.

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7. Grilled Veggie Pizza

Grilled veggie pizza is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a classic favorite. The smoky grilled veggies on top of a crispy crust create a satisfying meal that is full of fresh flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
3. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
4. Brush the dough with olive oil and preheat the dough on the grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Top the grilled dough with marinara sauce, grilled veggies, and shredded cheese.
6. Grill for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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8. Grilled Halloumi with Lemon and Mint

Grilled halloumi cheese is a perfect vegetarian alternative for grilling. When grilled, halloumi has a firm, savory texture that pairs beautifully with the freshness of lemon and mint.

Ingredients:

• 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the cheese softens.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh mint before serving.
5. Serve as an appetizer or side dish with a fresh salad.

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9. Grilled Avocado

Grilled avocado is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this creamy fruit. The grilling enhances its natural flavor, making it a perfect topping for salads, tacos, or as a stand-alone dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the cut sides of the avocado halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the avocados for 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled avocados and serve with your favorite topping or side dish.

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10. Grilled Veggie Burger Patties

These homemade grilled veggie burger patties are packed with flavor and make for a healthy, plant-based alternative to traditional burgers. They’re filled with nutritious ingredients like beans, vegetables, and grains.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and mashed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 1 small zucchini, grated
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 whole wheat burger buns

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed black beans, quinoa, grated carrot, zucchini, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy on the outside.
5. Serve the veggie patties on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

11. Grilled Veggie and Hummus Wraps

These grilled veggie and hummus wraps are an easy, healthy, and delicious meal. The grilled vegetables add smokiness while the hummus provides creaminess, making it the perfect summer lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 whole wheat wraps
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cup mixed greens

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
4. Spread a layer of hummus on each wrap.
5. Add the grilled vegetables and a handful of mixed greens, then wrap and serve.

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12. Grilled Butternut Squash

Grilled butternut squash has a sweet, smoky flavor that’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course. It’s a healthy, satisfying choice, packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the butternut squash slices with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the squash for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
4. Serve as a side dish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction if desired.

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13. Grilled Stuffed Peppers

These grilled stuffed peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, black beans, and vegetables, making them a perfect protein-packed meal for a healthy summer dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the peppers with the quinoa mixture, pressing down to pack them tightly.
4. Grill the stuffed peppers for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lime or your favorite salsa.

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14. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Yogurt

This sweet grilled pineapple with coconut yogurt is the perfect light, healthy dessert for summer. The caramelized pineapple pairs beautifully with creamy coconut yogurt for a tropical treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• 1 cup coconut yogurt
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the pineapple rings for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and grill marks appear.
3. Drizzle the pineapple with honey if desired.
4. Serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.

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15. Grilled Avocado with Salsa

Grilled avocado with fresh salsa is a simple and delicious snack or side dish. The grilling enhances the avocado’s creamy texture and the salsa adds a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the avocado halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the avocados for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and they soften slightly.
4. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
5. Serve the grilled avocado halves with a spoonful of salsa on top.