Grilling is not all hamburgers, steak, and hot dogs.
You can also use your grill to produce fantastic vegetables this summer.
You will be amazed by how delicious these simple dishes can be - they are something that everyone can enjoy, even people who are not usually into vegetables.
There are lots of reasons to try these great grilled veggies.
They taste good, are healthy, and will even help you stick to your diet without avoiding the grill.
Why Vegetables are So Good for Grilling Vegetables are a great choice on the barbecue, because its intense, dry heat causes the sugars that naturally exist in many plants to caramelize.
That results in a rich, sweet taste that is hard to beat.
Grilling really brings out the best in your veggies.
Corn forms a sweet layer just below the skin, onions soften and lose their harsh flavor, becoming sweet and buttery, and bell peppers develop an almost meaty taste in the smoke.
Vegetables are Fast Easy and Great On the Grill It is simple to put together a fast meal if you are going to be putting your vegetables on the grill.
After all, they cook in only a few minutes - faster than the majority of meats, making them a great first course for people who are doing a traditional barbecue.
They are also excellent on their own.
Vegetarian grilling works well and produces a lighter meal that is still tasty and satisfying.
Grilling Tips for Grilling Vegetables Like a Pro If you are interested in getting the most out of your grilled vegetables, you will need to start with ones that are in the best condition possible.
Look for foods from sources you are confident about, and make sure the vegetables you choose are extremely fresh.
Remember that produce goes through changes as it ages, and can be overly sweet or starchy, dry, tough, bitter, or otherwise problematic, in addition to the possibility of spoilage.
In order to get the best taste, you will need to use produce that is in the best condition possible.
Color can make a big difference in how appealing your grilled veggies are, as well.
There's a rainbow of color out there, including purple, white and orange sweet potatoes, red, yellow, green, orange, white and purple peppers, blue, yellow and red potatoes and sweet corn in gold and white.
Choose heirloom tomatoes in all kinds of colors and stripes as well.
Do not forget your greens, either.
Bok choy, broccoli, and many others are great when brushed with soy sauce.
Mushrooms are excellent when marinated.
Nearly every vegetable will be delicious on the grill if you know what to do with it, and many do well with just salt, pepper and oil, or a little vinaigrette.
These and other grilling tips are your secret to great meals.
Temperatures will very when you are grilling vegetables.
Some, such as potatoes and other roots, require low heat for longer periods of time.
Others like corn and tomatoes, should be cooked on high heat and turned frequently, then removed before they have a chance to get mushy.