Grilled vegetables in tomato marinade combine vibrant flavors with a smoky essence, perfect for summer cooking. You'll want to marinate fresh veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in a zesty tomato sauce and olive oil, letting their flavors meld. Grill them until tender and charred for a delicious side dish or main course. This dish adds a nutritious punch to your meals. Stick around to discover more tips and techniques for perfecting your grilled vegetable creations!
History
The tradition of marinating vegetables in tomato-based sauces has roots that stretch back centuries in Mediterranean cuisines, where tomatoes play a crucial role.
The practice of marinating vegetables in tomato-based sauces has deep Mediterranean roots, highlighting the essential role of tomatoes in culinary traditions.
Grilled vegetables marinated in tomato sauce have gained significant popularity in the United States since the late 20th century. This trend aligns perfectly with the rise of health-conscious eating and vegetarian diets.
You'll find that the acidity and sweetness of tomatoes enhance the flavors of charred vegetables, creating a delightful balance. Various cultures add herbs and spices like basil and oregano to their marinades, adding depth to each dish.
At summer barbecues, this combination of grilled vegetables and tomato marinades reflects a vibrant communal cooking tradition, bringing friends and families together over delicious, healthful meals. Additionally, the use of global flavors in marinades allows for endless creativity and personalization in each dish.
Recipe
Grilled vegetables in tomato marinade are a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side. The combination of fresh vegetables and a zesty tomato marinade creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. By marinating the vegetables beforehand, they soak up all the rich flavors, which are then intensified by the grilling process.
To prepare this dish, you'll want to select a colorful assortment of vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms work harmoniously together, but feel free to add or substitute any of your favorites. The marinade, made from a mix of tomato-based sauces, olive oil, garlic, and seasonings, not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the vegetables, making them irresistible when grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into strips
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved
- 1/2 cup tomato-based sauce (such as marinara or tomato sauce)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as basil or parsley)
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
To begin, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato-based sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade. Add the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, onion wedges, and halved mushrooms to the bowl, tossing everything to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and let the vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 1 hour for more flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and once ready, grill the marinated vegetables for 7-10 minutes on each side, or until they're tender and have nice char marks. Remove from the grill and serve topped with fresh herbs and crumbled cheese if desired.
For best results, make sure not to overcrowd the grill; working in batches if necessary allows for even cooking and better char. If you don't have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a similar effect.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with other vegetables or even add some protein, like chicken or shrimp, marinated in the same tomato sauce for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and make this dish your own by adjusting the seasonings to your taste!
Cooking Steps
To start cooking your grilled vegetables, you'll want to prepare a flavorful marinade with fresh herbs.
After mixing the marinade, toss in your chopped veggies and let them sit in the fridge for about an hour.
Once they're well-marinated, it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking!
Step 1. Prepare Marinade With Fresh Herbs
While preparing your flavorful marinade, start by combining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and an assortment of finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme in a bowl.
Make sure the herbs are finely chopped to maximize their flavor release, blending them well with the other ingredients. For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to enhance the brightness of the marinade. This will beautifully complement the sweetness of your grilled vegetables.
Once your marinade is ready, let the vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This step allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, creating a deliciously aromatic infusion that'll elevate your dish.
Enjoy the vibrant taste!
Step 2. Add Vegetables to Marinade
After washing and cutting your chosen vegetables into uniform pieces, it's time to add them to the marinade.
In a bowl, combine your chopped veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes with the prepared marinade. Toss the vegetables gently, ensuring each piece is evenly coated to absorb the rich flavors of the marinade. This step is crucial for enhancing the taste of your grilled veggies.
Once coated, let them sit for a moment. When you're ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium heat.
Using a perforated grill pan can help you achieve the best results, allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetables to shine through while they cook to perfection.
Step 3. Refrigerate for One Hour
Once you've tossed your vegetables in the marinade, it's essential to refrigerate them for at least one hour. This step allows the marinated vegetables to absorb the rich flavors of the marinade, which typically includes olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and garlic.
Place the bowl in the refrigerator, making sure it's covered to keep your ingredients fresh and prevent contamination. As they chill, the vegetables will soak up the marinade, enhancing their taste.
While marinating for longer than an hour can intensify the flavors, be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as this may result in overly soft vegetables. Enjoy the delicious depth of flavor when you finally grill or serve them!
Step 4. Grill Until Tender and Charred
Fire up the grill and get ready to transform your marinated vegetables into a delicious dish!
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Place your marinated veggies directly on the grill or use a perforated grill pan for best results. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
You'll want those beautiful grill marks to develop while the veggies become tender and charred. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your grill type.
When they're perfectly charred and tender, you'll know they've absorbed all the fantastic marinade flavors. Enjoy the delightful aroma as you wait for your grilled veggies to be ready!
Step 5. Serve With Fresh Basil
To elevate the flavor of your grilled vegetables, add a handful of fresh basil just before serving. This fragrant herb complements the sweetness of the charred veggies, enhancing their taste.
You can either tear or chop the basil to sprinkle over the vegetable medley for a vibrant presentation. To further boost the flavors, drizzle the grilled vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
If you want to incorporate basil even more, consider mixing it into the marinade or tossing it in a sauce before serving.
Pair your dish with crusty bread or creamy cheese, like feta, to create a balanced and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
Final Thoughts
As you savor the vibrant flavors of grilled vegetables in tomato marinade, you'll appreciate how this simple technique transforms your dishes.
The rich, tangy notes of the marinade enhance the natural sweetness of summer squash, zucchini, and bell peppers, making for a delightful vegetarian meal.
Using a grill basket ensures even cooking, allowing those beautifully charred edges to shine.
By marinating the vegetables for at least 30 minutes, you deepen the flavor profile, infusing every bite with moisture and taste.
These marinated grilled vegetables serve not only as a fantastic side dish but also elevate salads and sandwiches.
Embrace this method, and you'll find endless ways to enjoy the fresh and delicious results throughout the grilling season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Marinate My Vegetables Before Grilling?
Marinating vegetables before grilling can be like soaking a sponge in water; they might absorb too much moisture and lose their texture.
It's better to keep it light—just a quick dip for 5-15 minutes if you really want to marinate beforehand.
Instead, consider lightly oiling or salting them before grilling. This way, you'll avoid flare-ups and keep your veggies flavorful and perfectly grilled.
Try marinating them after grilling for the best taste!
Can You Cook Vegetables in a Marinade?
You can't cook vegetables in a marinade if it contains acidic ingredients like vinegar. Doing so can make them mushy and overly flavored.
Instead, it's best to marinate cooked vegetables while they're still hot. This way, they absorb more flavor, acting like sponges.
If you grill or roast your veggies first, then apply the marinade right after cooking for the best taste. You'll enjoy a delicious explosion of flavors!
What Is the Best Seasoning for Grilled Vegetables?
Imagine your grilled vegetables dancing on the grill, soaking up the flavors of the seasonings.
The best seasoning for them combines olive oil, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to let their natural flavors shine. Toss in crushed garlic for that aromatic kick, and don't forget fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a burst of freshness.
A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth, transforming your dish into a flavor fiesta!
What Does Marinating Do to Vegetables?
Marinating vegetables does wonders for their flavor and texture. When you soak them in a marinade, the acidity breaks down their cell walls, making them tender and allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors of herbs and spices.
If you marinate them while they're hot, they'll soak up even more taste. Just give them at least 30 minutes, and you'll notice a significant difference in the overall dish compared to un-marinated veggies.
