Quick & Easy BBQ Veggie Skewers with Whole Foods BBQ Sauce Recipe

I’m cooking these bad boys up and I’m inviting you to join me. It’s super easy, incredibly tasty, and hey, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies. Whether you’re a grill master or a newbie, these skewers are going to turn you into the star of your next BBQ.

Imagine your favorite veggies, charred to perfection, and glazed in that smoky, sweet sauce –the veggies get this amazing char, the sauce caramelizes slightly, and the smell? Oh man, it’s like a signal to your taste buds that they’re in for a treat. The result is this perfect combo of smoky, sweet, and savory, with the veggies still retaining a nice crunch. So, grab your apron, and let’s get grilling together!

What is BBQ Veggie Skewers with Whole Foods BBQ Sauce?

BBQ Veggie Skewers with Whole Foods BBQ Sauce are like a symphony of flavors on a stick. Picture this: fresh, crunchy veggies – think bell peppers, zucchini, onions, mushrooms – all skewered up and ready for the spotlight. But the star of the show? That Whole Foods BBQ Sauce. It’s a masterpiece of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes, transforming your humble veggies into something out of this world.

When these beauties hit the grill, they come alive. The veggies get this gorgeous char, the sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating an irresistible aroma. It’s a harmony of smoky, sweet, and savory, with each veggie offering a delightful crunch. Simple to make, yet incredibly delicious, these skewers are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game.

Should You Marinate Veggies for Skewers?

When it comes to BBQ Veggie Skewers, marinating is a bit of a personal choice, but it’s not a must. Veggies, unlike meat, don’t absorb marinades in the same way. However, marinating can still add a surface level of flavor and help in getting those delicious charred edges when grilling.

If you decide to go for a marinade, here’s the deal: A simple mix of olive oil, maybe some balsamic vinegar, herbs, and spices can do wonders.

You don’t need to marinate them for hours – even 30 minutes is enough to give them a nice flavor boost. But hey, if you’re using a robust sauce like the Whole Foods BBQ Sauce, you might not need to marinate at all.

The sauce itself will bring a ton of flavor to the party. Brush it on before grilling and maybe give the skewers another coat while they’re on the grill, and you’re golden.

What to Put on BBQ Veggie Skewers?

Oh, the possibilities are endless when it comes to loading up those BBQ veggie skewers! But let’s hit the highlights – the veggies that not only taste amazing when grilled but also hold up well on a skewer. Here’s a list of some top picks:

1. Bell Peppers: All colors – they add a sweet, slightly charred flavor.
2. Zucchini and Yellow Squash: They get this nice, tender texture when grilled.
3. Red Onion: They become sweet and a bit caramelized – a must-have.
4. Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms are perfect for skewers.
5. Cherry Tomatoes: They turn almost jammy and super sweet.
6. Eggplant: Cut into chunks, it gets beautifully smoky.
7. Corn: Slice them into wheels for a sweet, crunchy addition.
8. Pineapple: Not a veggie, but trust me, it’s a game-changer for a sweet, tangy twist.

Feel free to mix and match based on what you love or what’s in season. Remember to cut the veggies in similar sizes for even cooking. And, of course, don’t forget to give them a good brush with that Whole Foods BBQ Sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness!

How Long Do Vegetable Skewers Take on the Grill?

Grilling veggie skewers is a quick affair, perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours over the grill. Generally, vegetable skewers take about 10-15 minutes to cook on the grill. But, as with all things grilling, there are a couple of factors to keep in mind:

Veggie Type and Size: Harder veggies like carrots or potatoes take longer to cook, whereas softer veggies like zucchini or bell peppers cook faster. Also, the smaller you chop them, the quicker they’ll cook.

Grill Temperature: A medium-high heat is ideal. You want it hot enough to get those nice char marks without burning the veggies or leaving them raw in the middle.

Turning Them Around: Give them a turn every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks on all sides.

Test for Doneness: Veggies should be tender but still a bit crisp. A fork should easily pierce through them.

How to Prepare Grilled Vegetables Skewers

Select the right skewer for your grilled veggies. Metal skewers are my go-to as they’re sturdy and reusable, but bamboo skewers are a great alternative. Just remember, if you opt for wooden skewers, give them a good soak in water for about 15 to 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from charring.

When prepping your veggies, consistency is key. Aim to chop them into uniform chunks so they all cook at the same rate. Avoid slicing them too thinly as they might fall off the skewers during cooking. For more tender veggies like zucchini or summer squash, a slightly thicker cut works well as they cook faster. And here’s a neat trick: wrap slices of onion around the tops of mushrooms for a flavor boost and to make efficient use of the skewer space.

Directions:

1. Prep Veggies: Chop your veggies into sizable chunks. Think bite-sized but big enough not to fall off the skewers.
2. Skewer Time: Thread the veggies onto your skewers. Mix and match colors and textures for a vibrant look.
3. Season: Drizzle olive oil over the skewered veggies. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
4. Sauce ‘Em Up: Generously brush the Whole Foods BBQ Sauce over the veggies. Make sure every piece gets some love.
5. Grill ‘Em: Heat your grill or grill pan. Place the skewers on, turning occasionally, until the veggies are nicely charred and tender. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
6. Baste Again: Halfway through grilling, give them another brush of BBQ sauce. More flavor? Yes, please!
7. Serve Hot: Once they’re done, serve those skewers hot off the grill. They’re great as a side or even as a main dish for a light meal.

What to Serve With It?

Serving up those grilled veggie skewers and wondering what to pair them with? You’re in for a treat because they’re incredibly versatile. Here are some fantastic options that will complement your skewers and make your meal a hit:

1. Grilled Protein: Think chicken, steak, fish, or tofu. These skewers are a perfect side to any grilled main dish.
2. Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of fluffy rice or quinoa can absorb all those delicious veggie and BBQ sauce flavors.
3. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the smoky, charred veggies.
4. Couscous: This is a great, easy-to-prepare option that pairs nicely with the skewers.
5. Potato Salad: Classic, creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and goes well with grilled dishes.
6. Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing can lighten up the meal.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it’s a summer BBQ staple.
8. Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
9. Dips: Consider serving with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a yogurt-based dip for an extra flavor kick.
10. Beverages: Refreshing drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine can be a perfect accompaniment.

Nutrition Info:

• Calories: 80-120
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fat: 3-5g
• Saturated Fat: Less than 1g
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Potassium: 300-400mg
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 4-6g
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 20-30% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 2-4% of Daily Value
• Iron: 4-6% of Daily Value

Conclusion

In conclusion, BBQ Veggie Skewers with Whole Foods BBQ Sauce are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a vibrant, healthful addition to any meal. They’re incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and can be paired with a wide range of sides, making them perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings. The simple process of chopping, skewering, and grilling, combined with the robust flavors of the BBQ sauce, transforms everyday veggies into a delightful culinary experience.

Nutrition-wise, these skewers are a win, offering a good balance of vitamins, minerals, and fiber with relatively low calories. They’re a great way to enjoy a range of vegetables in a fun, flavorful way. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for a simple and tasty way to include more veggies in your diet, BBQ Veggie Skewers with Whole Foods BBQ Sauce are a choice you won’t regret. Happy grilling!