Grilled Veggies Recipe

Wash and trim

Rinse the zucchini, bell peppers, and onion under cold water. Pat dry. Trim the ends off the zucchini.

Slice vegetables

Cut the zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks. Cut the bell peppers in half, remove seeds and membranes, then slice into large 1/2-inch strips. Peel the onion, cut in half pole-to-pole, then slice each half into 1/2-inch thick wedges so they hold together on the grill.

Mince or grate the garlic. In a large bowl combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, Kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until emulsified.

Reserve 1 tablespoon of the marinade for finishing (optional). Add the prepared vegetables to the bowl and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Let marinate at room temperature for 10–15 minutes (no more than 30 minutes) or refrigerate for up to 1 hour. If chilled, bring back to room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.

Preheat grill

Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.

Place the vegetables on the grill in a single layer (lay zucchini planks perpendicular to grates so they don't fall through). Grill without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop good char marks.

Flip each piece and grill the other side for another 2–4 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Bell pepper skins should blister and soften; onions should be tender and slightly caramelized. Total grill time will be about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness and heat.

If using a grill pan and smaller pieces, consider using a vegetable basket to keep pieces from falling through.

Transfer grilled vegetables to a platter. While still warm, spoon the reserved tablespoon of marinade over the vegetables (or drizzle the balsamic glaze). Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the top.

Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or a grind of black pepper if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish, salad component, or on toasted bread.