Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Indian Grilled Vegetables recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the smoky sweetness of grilled vegetables infused with the aromatic spices of India. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or a vibrant side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It's one of those delicious dishes that's both satisfying and good for you – the best of both worlds!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut into large pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into large pieces
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1 yellow squash, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and chop all the vegetables according to the ingredient list. Make sure the pieces are relatively uniform in size so they grill evenly.
Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor profile. The longer you marinate, the better!
Step 3: Grill the Vegetables
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. For smaller vegetables like cherry tomatoes and broccoli, you might need less grilling time.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once grilled, remove the vegetables from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, flavorful goodness of your homemade Indian grilled vegetables!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Vegetables:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the vegetables enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a grill basket: For smaller vegetables, a grill basket is a great way to prevent them from falling through the grates.
- Adjust grilling time: Depending on the size and type of vegetables, the grilling time may vary. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork.
- Embrace the char: A little char adds a delightful smoky flavor to the vegetables.
Variations:
- Add protein: Marinate and grill chicken, tofu, or paneer alongside the vegetables for a more substantial meal.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of garam masala for a spicier kick.
- Get creative with vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or mushrooms.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories (depending on vegetable choices and oil used)
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Indian Grilled Vegetables recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, healthy cooking. It's a quick dinner idea, a delicious side dish, and a great way to showcase the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. Enjoy this easy recipe and discover the joy of homemade cooking!