30 Quick and Tasty Grilled Vegetable Side Dishes

By Kristen McCaffrey on Apr 11, 2025

Leafy & Tender Veggies

Grilled Romaine

112 CAL 15 MIN

If you haven't tried grilled lettuce yet, let me tell you: this Grilled Romaine will change the way you look at salads. The lettuce takes on a smoky flavor from the grill, and when paired with a tangy dressing and croutons, it's a surprisingly refreshing side. It's light, crunchy, and the perfect balance of flavors.

Grilled Bok Choy

65 CAL 15 MIN

Bok choy on the grill? Yes, please! This simple recipe transforms a humble vegetable into a smoky, caramelized side dish,elevated by a soy-ginger glaze. It's a fast, flavor-packed option that works well with anything from grilled fish to your favorite weeknight stir-fry. You'll wonder why you didn't try this sooner!

Grilled Cabbage

90 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled cabbage might not be your first go-to, but trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked! This recipe calls for thick wedges of cabbage brushed with olive oil and seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then grilled until perfectly tender with crispy, caramelized edges. Serve it with a drizzle of your favorite dressing or a squeeze of fresh lemon, and you've got yourself a side dish that's packed with smoky flavor.

Grilled Brussels Sprouts

84 CAL 20 MIN

Grilled Brussel Sprouts on a skewer and in a bowl with grill marks.

If you've been avoiding Brussels sprouts, let this grilled version change your mind. These beauties are charred just enough to bring out a subtle smokiness and caramelization, with a simple seasoning mix that highlights their natural flavor. Serve them up as a side dish or toss them into a salad – they'll steal the show every time.

Garlicky Goodness

Garlic Grilled Zucchini (How to Grill Zucchini)

88 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled zucchini spears with dark grill marks served on a platter with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic.

Ready in under 15 minutes, this garlic grilled zucchini is the perfect summer side. Marinated in garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning, it's grilled until lightly charred and packed with flavor. It's the perfect way to turn a humble veggie into something exciting on your dinner plate.

Garlic Grilled Broccolini

102 CAL 15 MIN

This Garlic Grilled Broccolini is a super simple yet flavorful way to elevate your veggie game. The smokiness from the grill combined with the garlicky goodness and a touch of lemon create the perfect bite. Whether served alongside grilled meats or on top of your favorite grain bowl, it's a dish that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to the table.

Easy Grilled Carrots

120 CAL 25 MIN

Grilled carrots with charred grill marks on a cutting board with sauce on the side.

Grilled carrots are one of those side dishes that make you go, "How did something so simple taste so good?" With just a few ingredients, like carrots, olive oil, garlic, and a little salt and pepper, you'll get perfectly charred, tender carrots with a natural sweetness that shines through. If you're looking for a quick and easy side that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal, these are your new go-to.

Easy Grilled Asparagus

58 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled asparagus with charred edges on a plate with lemon, salt, and pepper.

Grilled asparagus is one of those dishes that's incredibly easy yet so satisfying. With a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic, this side dish gets a smoky char while keeping that crisp-tender bite. It's my go-to veggie when I'm craving something light but flavorful. Bonus points if you finish it off with a little parmesan or balsamic glaze!

Cookout Classics

Easy Grilled Corn (How to Grill Corn)

80 CAL 25 MIN

Three grilled corn cobs with golden kernels sit on a white plate beside a small bowl of chopped green herbs.

Grilled corn on the cob is the ultimate summer side dish, and this easy recipe makes it so simple! Just brush the corn with oil and grill it until it's perfectly charred, with a slightly smoky flavor that's hard to beat. Top it with butter, lime, or your favorite seasoning, and you've got a classic BBQ side that pairs with pretty much anything.

Grilled Sweet Potatoes

169 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled Sweet Potatoes are the perfect mix of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They're brushed with a simple olive oil and seasoning mix, then grilled until perfectly caramelized, making them the ideal side for any meal. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh twist that'll take these to the next level.

Grilled Red Potatoes

128 CAL 40 MIN

There's something about Grilled Red Potatoes that just screams summer. The smoky, crispy edges paired with the soft and creamy interior make them the ideal side dish for your next barbecue. With a simple seasoning of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, these potatoes come together effortlessly and add a punch of flavor to any meal.

Grilled Avocados

176 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled avocado halves drizzled with oil and sprinkled with pepper, served in a bowl beside coarse salt.

Who knew grilling avocados could make them even better? These Grilled Avocados have a smoky, savory flavor with a perfectly creamy interior. Seasoned with just a touch of olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, they're the perfect base for your favorite toppings, from a fresh salsa to a creamy drizzle of sour cream. They're quick to make and oh-so-satisfying.

Easy Grilled Onions

70 CAL 20 MIN

Grilled onions with both red and white onions with marks.

If you've ever thought about adding grilled onions to your meals but weren't sure how this easy grilled onion recipe is about to become your go-to! Sweet onions, seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, are perfectly charred and softened on the grill for a smoky, caramelized flavor. Whether you toss them on burgers, in salads, or serve as a side, these grilled onions are quick and simple and add so much savory goodness to any dish.

Vibrant & Colorful Veggies

Grilled Peppers

70 CAL 20 MIN

If you love smoky, tender vegetables, these grilled peppers will be your new go-to recipe. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of seasoning creates the perfect marinade, giving these peppers a bold flavor after just a few minutes on the grill. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a quick weeknight side dish, these peppers never disappoint.

Grilled Shishito Peppers

103 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled Shishito Peppers are the kind of simple snack that gets everyone hooked. Tossed in a bit of olive oil and salt, then grilled until blistered, these mild peppers are so quick and easy to make. Plus, there's that fun surprise when you bite into one that's unexpectedly spicy! Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a tangy finish.

Grilled Tomatoes

87 CAL 30 MIN

Grilled tomatoes are the epitome of simplicity and flavor. With a quick drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic and herbs, these tomatoes turn into a smoky, tender side dish that brings summer to your plate. Perfect for topping salads, mixing into grains, or just enjoying straight from the grill.

Grilled Green Beans

69 CAL 15 MIN

These Grilled Green Beans are the perfect balance of crispy, smoky, and tender. Tossed in olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon, they make a quick, flavorful side dish for any meal. They're easy to whip up in just a few minutes and are great for adding a burst of green to your BBQ spread or a weeknight dinner.

Grilled Radishes

71 CAL 20 MIN

Who knew grilling radishes could make them so irresistibly good? Grilled radishes take just a few minutes to prep and turn into a smoky, tender treat. The high heat mellows their sharpness and brings out a surprising sweetness, making them the perfect addition to your next BBQ or salad. You'll never look at radishes the same way again!

Hearty Veggies

Balsamic Grilled Mushrooms (How to Grill Mushrooms)

65 CAL 25 MIN

Grilled mushrooms with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic powder on a plate.

Grilled mushrooms get a flavorful upgrade with a simple balsamic marinade, bringing out a slightly sweet and savory taste. After grilling, these mushrooms are perfect for adding to your favorite grain bowls, tossing in pasta, or just enjoying as a quick snack on their own. They're an easy, satisfying side to any meal!

Grilled Cauliflower

78 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled cauliflower is one of those side dishes that can completely transform a meal. Tossed in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite spices, then charred to perfection on the grill, it's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It's an easy, no-fuss veggie that's perfect for a summer BBQ or as a weeknight side with just about anything.

Grilled Butternut Squash

117 CAL 15 MIN

This Grilled Butternut Squash recipe is everything you want in a fall dish: smoky, tender, and subtly sweet. With a quick toss in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasoning, it's grilled to perfection, making it a perfect side or topping for salads and bowls. If you haven't grilled squash yet, it's about time you give this a try. Trust me, the charred edges are everything!

Grilled Artichokes

129 CAL 1 HOURS

Grilled artichokes are the perfect side dish for any summer meal, offering a smoky, tender bite with a deliciously charred exterior. Coated in olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of savory spices, these artichokes are packed with flavor and ready in no time. Serve with a drizzle of garlic butter or aioli for a seriously crave-worthy treat!

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks

167 CAL 30 MIN

These Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are the perfect vegetarian main dish or side, offering a rich, savory flavor with just a few simple ingredients. The cauliflower is roasted to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of your favorite spices, creating a tender yet crispy texture. Serve these with a drizzle of tahini or a squeeze of lemon for an extra punch of flavor.

Squash Lovers' Picks

Grilled Yellow Squash

49 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled yellow squash is the perfect side dish for any summer meal. Simply seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled to tender perfection, this squash brings out the natural sweetness while developing a light char. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or tossing it into a salad for an added pop of flavor and color.

Simple Grilled Acorn Squash

86 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled acorn squash on a plate with caramelized edges.

Grilled squash is one of those recipes that's easy to make and even easier to love. With just a few pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning, you can turn squash into a smoky, tender side dish that's perfect for grilling season. Whether you're serving it alongside your favorite protein or tossing it into a veggie-packed salad, it's always a hit.

Grilled Summer Vegetables

139 CAL 30 MIN

If you're looking for a side dish that's as fresh as summer itself, these Grilled Summer Vegetables are the way to go. With zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant getting that charred goodness from the grill, they're seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for maximum flavor. It's the kind of dish that makes you want to throw everything on the grill all season long.

Zesty & Fresh Veggies

Grilled Lemon Asparagus with Feta

82 CAL 15 MIN

Grilled lemon asparagus topped with crumbled feta cheese and served with grilled lemon halves.

Grilled Lemon Asparagus with Feta is one of those side dishes that's so simple but instantly elevates your meal. The asparagus gets that smoky char, while the fresh lemon adds a zesty kick, and the feta ties it all together with a creamy, salty bite. It's a versatile side that pairs well with pretty much anything and takes just minutes to throw together!

Marinated Grilled Vegetables

150 CAL 20 MIN

Grilled marinated vegetables with balsamic marinade in a white bowl.

This marinated grilled vegetable recipe is a dream for summer grilling! The veggies are tossed in a simple marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs, giving them a bold flavor that's perfectly balanced by a smoky char. Grill them to perfection and serve as a side, in bowls, or even on top of a fresh salad for an easy, healthy meal.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

155 CAL 20 MIN

A colorful bowl of grilled vegetables, including zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, garnished with herbs and drizzled in dressing.

If you love veggies with a little bit of char and a lot of flavor, these Balsamic Grilled Vegetables are for you. Tossed in a tangy balsamic marinade with Italian seasoning and garlic powder, then grilled to tender perfection, these veggies will steal the show at your next BBQ. They're perfect on their own or as a topping for salads, tacos, and more!

Easy Grilled Vegetables

71 CAL 25 MIN

Grilled vegetables including zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots on a wooden cutting board.

Grilled veggies are always a crowd-pleaser, and this Easy Grilled Vegetables recipe brings together all the best veggies with minimal effort. The balsamic marinade adds a tangy punch, while the grilling brings out that irresistible smoky flavor. Serve them with anything from grilled chicken to a fresh salad, and you've got a winning side dish every time!

Serving Suggestions

Don't leave your grilled veggies hanging! Here are some fun ways to serve them:

Protein: Pair your grilled veggies with some protein options like Greek Yogurt Parmesan Chicken, Grilled Tofu, Grilled Pork Chops, Easy Grilled Swordfish, or Grilled Sirloin Steak with Chimichurri!
Dip: Add a side of Tzatziki or Homemade Hummus to dip your veggies in!
Grain bowls: Add the grilled veggies on top of grains with a protein and other toppings for a filling, smoky grain bowl!
Salad: Add the charred, smoky veggies on top of a salad with protein and your favorite toppings for a smoky twist.

Flavor Customization

Spices: Experiment with different spices to elevate the flavor of your grilled vegetables! Try a dash of cumin and chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick, or go for a Mediterranean vibe with oregano, thyme, and a sprinkle of za’atar. Don't be afraid to mix things up, like fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can be added after grilling for a burst of flavor!
Toppings: Add a sprinkle of feta, parmesan, or goat cheese to your grilled veggies for a punch of tangy flavor!
Dressings: If your veggies aren't marinated, you can drizzle them with some Healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette, Light Italian Dressing, or Skinny Ranch!

Tips

New to grilling veggies? Here are some tried-and-true tips to get the best grilled veggies ever!

Use a grill basket or aluminum foil: A grill basket is perfect for holding smaller veggies, like sliced peppers or onions, so they don't fall through the grates. If you don't have one, simply use heavy-duty aluminum foil, folding it to create a packet that keeps the veggies from slipping.
Preheat your grill properly: Make sure your grill is preheated to a medium-high temperature before placing the veggies on it. The heat needs to be just right to get that nice sear and char without burning the veggies. You're aiming for around 400°F.
Cut veggies uniformly: Cutting veggies into uniform sizes helps them cook evenly. Aim for about 1-inch pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
Add more smoky flavor: For an extra smoky flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika on the veggies before grilling, or add a small handful of wood chips to your grill for a more intense smoky flavor.
Don't overcrowd the grill: Give each veggie enough space on the grill so they can cook properly. If the veggies are too packed in, they'll steam instead of getting that crispy, charred exterior we all crave.
Marinate for flavor: Don't skip marinating! A quick soak in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and seasoning after grilling, not before, will infuse a ton of flavor into the veggies.
Flip often for even cooking: Flip the veggies every few minutes to ensure they're getting that golden-brown crispiness on all sides. This is especially important for larger veggies like zucchini and eggplant.
Check for doneness: Grill your veggies until they're tender and lightly charred on the outside. For most veggies, you can test them by piercing with a fork. If it slides in easily, they're done!
Try grilled veggie skewers: If you want even cooking and easier handling, try threading your veggies onto skewers before grilling. This works especially well for mushrooms, peppers, and chunks of onion or zucchini.
Serve immediately for best texture: Grilled vegetables are best when served hot and fresh off the grill to keep their crispy texture. If you must store leftovers, do so in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two.
Keep the skin on: When grilling veggies like peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, leave the skin on to help them hold their shape and get that perfect crispy exterior. Just make sure to remove the skin afterward if you prefer it that way!