Grilled Vegetable Sliders
Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen
I love making Grilled Vegetable Sliders for a delightful and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. These sliders are packed with flavor from the grilled veggies and are surprisingly filling. As a vegetarian option, they cater to all eaters while being a hearty alternative to traditional meat patties. Combining fresh ingredients and a light bun gives these sliders a fresh appeal that brings everyone back for more. Every bite offers a vibrant taste that screams summer, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
When I first tried Grilled Vegetable Sliders at a backyard BBQ, I was amazed at how much flavor could come from simple vegetables. The key is to marinate them in a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices before grilling; that deepens their flavor and gives them a lovely char. I often use a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion to keep things colorful and fresh.
What truly elevates these sliders is the choice of toppings. I like to add a creamy avocado spread and tangy feta cheese to contrast the smoky flavor of the grilled veggies. It’s a combination that never fails to impress and makes the sliders incredibly satisfying. Trust me; you won't miss the meat!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors from grilled vegetables
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
- Perfect for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners
Grilling Techniques for Perfect Vegetables
To achieve that perfect char on your grilled vegetables, it's essential to preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, about 400°F (200°C). This ensures the veggies cook quickly, developing rich flavors while remaining tender rather than mushy. Make sure your grill grates are clean to prevent sticking; oil them lightly before placing the vegetables on. Aim for grill marks to form within the first 8 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking and a beautiful caramelization.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables on your sliders. Besides zucchinis and bell peppers, consider adding eggplants or Portobello mushrooms for extra depth. If using mushrooms, ensure they're adequately cleaned and sliced about 1/2 inch thick to grill well. For a slight smoky flavor, consider adding a few minutes on indirect heat after the initial grilling time.
Choosing the Right Buns and Toppings
Opting for whole wheat buns not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the nutritional profile of your sliders. If whole wheat isn't available, you can consider multigrain or whole grain options, which provide similar health benefits. Toasting the buns is crucial; it adds a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture. Just a couple of minutes on the grill will give them a golden edge, perfect for holding in the toppings.
As for toppings, feel free to personalize your sliders. Adding a drizzle of homemade tahini or another creamy dressing can elevate the flavor profile tremendously. Sliced cucumbers or pickles can introduce a refreshing crunch. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider using jalapeños or a spicy aioli, bringing a new dimension to the flavor without overriding the grilled veggies.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 small whole wheat buns
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Grill the Vegetables
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated vegetables on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they're tender and have nice grill marks.
Assemble the Sliders
While the vegetables are grilling, toast the whole wheat buns. Once the vegetables are done, assemble the sliders by layering the grilled veg on the bottom half of the bun, adding mashed avocado, and sprinkling with feta cheese. Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the sliders warm with your choice of sides like a salad or sweet potato fries and enjoy!
You can grill the vegetables a day before and store them in the fridge for a quick meal option!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like basil or thyme to your vegetable marinade.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These Grilled Vegetable Sliders can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for meal prepping. Grill the vegetables up to two days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat them on the grill or stovetop for a few minutes to warm through and regain that grilled flavor.
If you want to prepare the sliders entirely ahead of time, assemble them without the buns and store the components separately. Assemble with toasted buns just before serving for a fresh texture. Avoid adding the mashed avocado until you're ready to eat, as this prevents browning and keeps it vibrant.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When serving your Grilled Vegetable Sliders, consider pairing them with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds complements the rich flavors without overwhelming them. You might also enjoy sweet potato fries, as their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory sliders.
For a refreshing beverages option, homemade lemonade or iced tea can brighten up the meal. Alternatively, consider serving a craft beer with a mild flavor profile, which will enhance the meal without overshadowing the sliders' taste. These thoughtful pairings enhance the entire dining experience, making your sliders even more memorable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, like eggplant or mushrooms.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on a pan or in the oven.
→ Are these sliders gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead.
→ Can I prepare these sliders in advance?
Yes, you can grill the vegetables ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving.
Grilled Vegetable Sliders
I love making Grilled Vegetable Sliders for a delightful and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. These sliders are packed with flavor from the grilled veggies and are surprisingly filling. As a vegetarian option, they cater to all eaters while being a hearty alternative to traditional meat patties. Combining fresh ingredients and a light bun gives these sliders a fresh appeal that brings everyone back for more. Every bite offers a vibrant taste that screams summer, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Created by: Primrose Cavendish
Recipe Type: Daily Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 sliders
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 small whole wheat buns
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated vegetables on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they're tender and have nice grill marks.
While the vegetables are grilling, toast the whole wheat buns. Once the vegetables are done, assemble the sliders by layering the grilled veg on the bottom half of the bun, adding mashed avocado, and sprinkling with feta cheese. Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve the sliders warm with your choice of sides like a salad or sweet potato fries and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like basil or thyme to your vegetable marinade.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 245mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g