Flavorful and Healthy Smoked Vegetables Dish
Are you looking for a unique way to enjoy your vegetables? Look no further than this smoked vegetables recipe. With the addition of smoky flavor, your vegetables will be elevated to a new level of deliciousness.
As an assistant for a BBQ chef, I understand the importance of having a variety of vegetable dishes at any BBQ or dinner party. Smoked vegetables not only add a perfect side dish, but they also give your guests something different to try.
In today’s world, it can be hard to find healthy and tasty options that satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters alike. Luckily, these marinated and smoked veggies are perfect for any dietary restricted individuals.
Plus, this easy smoked vegetable recipe will make you want to add it into your weekly meal prep rotation in no time.
Ready to learn more about what makes this recipe so great? Keep reading for more information on ingredients, how-tos, variations, and serving suggestions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old bland and boring vegetable dishes that taste like they were boiled in salt water? Do you want to add some variety to your meals with a burst of smoky flavor? Look no further than this smoked vegetable recipe!
Not only are these vegetables delicious, but they are also incredibly healthy! They are packed with vitamins and nutrients that your body craves. By smoking them, we elevate their natural flavors without adding unhealthy oils or frying methods.
Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy! All you have to do is toss your vegetables in a mix of olive oil, salt, and pepper, place them on the grill basket with some wood chips – trust me, the smell alone will make your mouth water. In less than an hour, you will have a perfect side dish or even a main course that is both crunchy and addictive.
But wait, there’s more! You can customize this recipe to fit any dietary needs or preferences. If you’re vegan, try marinating your veggies in some Indian spices for added flavor. If you’re looking for something sweeter, add in some smoked sweet potatoes fries to the mix.
So what are you waiting for? Put down those boring steamed vegetables and step up your game with this easy smoked vegetable recipe. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredient List
Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s take a look at the ingredient list. To make the best smoked vegetables, we will need:
– Mixed bell peppers: I recommend using a mix of red, yellow and green bell peppers to add a pop of color and flavor.
– Red onion: This brings a slightly sweet and tangy note to the dish.
– Zucchini: It’s a versatile vegetable that takes on the smoky flavor really well.
– Corn: Cut it into 1-inch pieces for easy eating.
– Sweet potato: For a little bit of sweetness, try adding some smoked sweet potato fries to your dish.
– Dijon mustard: This adds depth to the marinade and complements the smoky flavor perfectly.
– Extra virgin olive oil: A good quality EVOO will help with caramelization and bring out the best in each vegetable.
– Salt and pepper: These pantry staples are essential for a balanced flavor profile.
Pro tip: Feel free to also include any other vegetables you love or have on hand in this recipe. You can experiment with different combinations, such as marinated Indian vegetables for something exotic or even some vegan stuffed peppers!
The Recipe How-To
Preparing the Vegetables
Before smoking the vegetables, it is important to prepare them properly. Cut 1 red onion and 1 zucchini into 1″ pieces. Cut 1 bell pepper into strips and set aside. You can also add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or mushrooms to add more flavor and variety to your smoked vegetable mix.
Creating the Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once combined, pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss until they are evenly coated.
Smoking the Vegetables
Preheat your smoker to 225°F and add your desired wood chips. Place the marinated vegetables in a grill basket or directly onto the rack of your smoker.
Smoke the vegetables for 45-60 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred. During this time, feel free to toss the vegetables every 15 minutes or so to ensure an even smoking and roasting process.
Finishing Touches
Once you have achieved your desired level of smokiness, remove the vegetables from the smoker and plate them on a serving dish or use them as a side dish. You can sprinkle some additional olive oil over them for some extra moisture.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t over-season your vegetables as they will already be packed with flavor from smoking.
- Soaking the wood chips in water before adding them to the smoker can help prevent them from burning too quickly.
- If using a gas grill with a smoker box, be sure to monitor and adjust the temperature regularly.
- For vegan-friendly options, feel free to omit any animal-based products or use plant-based substitutes.
- Adding an Indian-inspired marinade can give your smoked vegetables an exotic flavor twist.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have perfect, crunchy smoked vegetables that make for both a healthy snack or a perfect side dish along BBQ honey pork baked potatoes.
Substitutions and Variations
I’m all about experimenting with different ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try out to make your smoked vegetables truly your own.
1. Mix up the veggies: One of the best things about this easy smoked vegetables recipe is that you can use just about any vegetable you have on hand. Some of my favorites include red onion, zucchini, and bell peppers. But feel free to experiment with other veggies like eggplant, squash, or even marinated Indian vegetables.
2. Try different seasonings: While I love the simple combination of salt, pepper, Dijon mustard and extra virgin olive oil in this recipe, you can always switch things up a bit by trying out different seasonings. For instance, you could add some paprika or chili powder for a little heat or toss in some herbs such as thyme or rosemary for some added depth.
3. Swap out the oil: If you prefer a different oil than extra virgin olive oil, try experimenting with different types of oil such as coconut oil or avocado oil.
4. Use wood chips: If you don’t have a smoker at home but still want to give your veggies that smoky flavor, try using wood chips instead. Simply soak the wood chips in water for about an hour before adding them to your grill basket along with your veggies.
5. Serve with dipping sauce: While these crunchy smoked vegetables taste amazing on their own, you can elevate them even further by serving them with a dipping sauce of your choice. Some options could be BBQ honey pork baked potatoes featured smoked sweet potato fries or even smoked corn cut into 1-inch pieces served alongside vegan French fries.
The possibilities for substitutions and variations are endless when it comes to vegetables recipes like this one here! So go ahead and get creative – who knows what delicious combinations you’ll come up with!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to smoked vegetables, there are endless serving and pairing options. They make the perfect side dish for any summer BBQ or can be the star of a plant-based meal. One of my favorite ways to serve smoked vegetables is on a big platter, arranged in a beautiful and colorful pattern. This not only makes for an eye-catching display but also invites guests to dive right in.
For the perfect flavor pairing, I recommend serving smoked vegetables with something tangy or acidic, which will help cut through the natural smokiness. A simple vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard and extra virgin olive oil is a great option, as is adding in some chopped red onion or bell pepper for extra crunch. For a twist on traditional grilled veggies, try seasoning with a unique spice blend like Indian curry powder or za’atar.
Smoked vegetables also pair well with other BBQ classics like honey pork chops or baked potatoes. The sweet and savory flavors of these dishes complement the smoky flavors of the veggies perfectly. Another delicious idea? Make sweet potato fries alongside your smoked corn on the cob for a delicious twist on classic BBQ sides.
For vegans or anyone looking for a meatless meal, try serving your smoked vegetables over quinoa or mixed greens for a hearty and healthy dinner. And don’t forget to check out other delicious vegan marinated recipes on websites like Yummly!
Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and pairing these easy smoked vegetables. Experiment with different combinations and let your taste buds guide you – you may just discover a new favorite dish.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cooking up a batch of beautifully smoked vegetables, but let’s be honest: sometimes you just don’t have the time or energy to do it all in one go. That’s where make-ahead options come in handy.
To make your life easier, you can smoke your vegetables ahead of time and then store them in the fridge for up to three days. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you’re too busy to cook but still want something healthy and delicious.
When storing your smoked vegetables, be sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up in an airtight container. I recommend tossing them with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and some salt and pepper before storing – this will help keep them moist and flavorful.
When it comes time to reheat your smoked vegetables, there are a few methods you can use. The easiest way is probably just to toss them back on the grill or smoker for a few minutes until they’re warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or even just pop them in the microwave for a minute or two if you’re pressed for time.
Of course, if you’re planning on making a big batch of smoked vegetables and saving some for later, you may want to consider marinating them first. A good marinade can infuse your veggies with even more flavor, and makes them even more versatile when it comes to using them up in different meals throughout the week.
For Indian-inspired flavors, try tossing your smoked vegetables with a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger and garlic. Or for something tangy and deliciously vegan-friendly, mix up a quick marinade with Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil and maple syrup.
No matter how you choose to store or prepare your smoked vegetables – as a crunchy side dish or as part of a bigger recipe – I promise these easy smoked vegetable recipes will quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you’re new to smoking vegetables, fear not! With a few simple tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly smoked veggies every time.
First and foremost, don’t skimp on the oil. In order to get that perfectly charred exterior and tender interior, your vegetables need a good coat of oil. I recommend extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil as they have high smoke points and won’t burn while cooking.
Next, consider investing in a grill basket. This handy tool will make it much easier to toss your vegetables without losing any to the grill grates. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze!
When it comes to choosing wood chips, maple is a great option for smoked vegetables. It imparts a mild sweetness that pairs well with most veggies.
Preheat your smoker to around 225-250°F before adding your vegetables. This will give you an even cook and ensure that your veggies are fully cooked by the time they’re done smoking.
In terms of seasoning, keep it simple with just salt and pepper or try tossing your veggies in a mixture of Dijon mustard and olive oil before smoking for added flavor.
Lastly, if you’re short on time, consider marinating your vegetables in advance or using pre-marinated options. Indian-style marinated veggies or vegan honey-glazed sweet potato fries are delicious options that can be prepared ahead of time and easily smoked on the day of the BBQ.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pro at smoking vegetables – enjoy!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make this delicious Smoked Vegetables recipe, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions and tips to help ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time. Here are some common queries that people have about smoking vegetables and some useful tips that will help you get the most out of this recipe.
What veggies are good in a smoker?
For this recipe, we will need a variety of fresh vegetables. Cut some sweet corn into 1-inch pieces, along with yellow squash and brussels sprouts that are halved. We’ll also need some red onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and mushrooms. Make sure all the veggies are washed and ready before we start grilling.
How long does it take to smoke vegetables at 225?
To achieve optimal smoke flavor, it’s recommended to maintain a temperature range between 225-250 degrees. With this temperature, most vegetables require an average cooking time of 45 minutes to one hour, and it’s essential to stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking. This method guarantees that the food will absorb the smoky flavor while still being cooked through to perfection.
What is the best wood to smoke vegetables?
When it comes to smoking meats and vegetables, different types of wood produce different flavors. One type of wood that works well in smoking vegetables is maple. This wood has a mild and subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the natural flavors of vegetables. Maple also works great with poultry and small game birds. This recommendation comes from expert chef Barnett, who has extensive experience with smoking foods. So, if you’re looking for a new way to add flavor to your vegetarian or meat dishes, consider using maple wood.
Can you smoke vegetables like meat?
Did you know that vegetables, unlike meat, tend to soak in smoke faster? This means you only need to use light and indirect heat, with a sprinkle of wood chips, to create the perfect charred texture and aroma for veggies like celery root, carrots, and cabbage. One vegetable that stands out in its ability to readily absorb smoke is the potato. As it gradually softens, the potato pulls in the smoky flavor and transforms into a smoky sensation on your plate.
Bottom Line
With the smoked vegetable recipe, you don’t need to be a BBQ expert to impress your guests. This recipe is easy to make and customizable with your favorite vegetables, spices, and herbs. The best part is that it’s a healthy dish that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary preferences.
By following my tips and recommendations, you can achieve perfect results every time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a healthy side dish for a weeknight dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
So next time you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to add some smoky flavor to your veggies, try out this smoked vegetable recipe. You won’t regret it!
Smoked Vegetables Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini, sliced in 3/4-inch-thick disks
- 2 yellow squash, sliced in 3/4-inch-thick disks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 red pepper, seeded and cut into strips
- 6 small red potatoes, cut into chunks
balsamic vinaigrette
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Vinaigrette: In a bowl combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and whisk until all is well blended.
- Vegetables: Place all the vegetables in a 8-by-12-inch casserole dish.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss, making sure the vegetables are well coated.
- Put the dish of vegetables in a 225°F smoker for about 4 hours.
- These can also be baked in a 350°F preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
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Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.