Delicious vegetable skewers
Delicious Vegetable Skewers
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 portions (about 20 skewers)
A personal note: These vegetable skewers are perfect for a summer evening with friends or family. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish or even as a main course for a vegetarian meal. Plus, they're a great way to encourage eating vegetables in a fun and delicious way!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (opt for an additive-free version if you want it to be healthier)
- 1 tablespoon tomato broth (or tomato paste for a more intense taste)
- 1 tsp chili paprika (adjustable to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey (you can also use maple syrup for a bittersweet touch)
- 2 zucchini, sliced (try to choose smaller zucchini for a fresher taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into large slices
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large slices
- 2 onions, cut lengthwise (red onions can add a unique flavor)
- 20 wooden skewers (don't forget to soak them in water an hour before to prevent burning)
Story behind the recipe
Vegetable skewers have been a popular choice in various cultures throughout the ages as an easy and creative way to cook vegetables. They have become a symbol of outdoor dining, bringing family and friends together around the barbecue. Whether grilled, baked or griddled, skewers are versatile and can be customized with your favourite ingredients.
Preparing skewers
1. Making the sauce: In a large bowl, pour the olive oil. Add the ketchup, tomato broth, paprika and honey. Mix all ingredients well to create a smooth sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a spicier sauce, you can add more paprika.
2. Preparing the vegetables: Cut the zucchini into slices about 1 cm thick, and the peppers and onions into large chunks. Make sure the vegetables are similar in size so they cook evenly. In the case of onions, slicing them lengthwise will make nice little florets that will stay on the skewer.
3. Marinating the vegetables: Add the sliced vegetables to the bowl of sauce and toss well to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Assembling the skewers: Start assembling the skewers, alternating the vegetables: a slice of courgette, a piece of pepper, a piece of onion and so on, until the skewers are completely filled. The challenge is to make combinations of colors and textures, and if you like, you can add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
5. Cooking the skewers: Preheat a grill or oven tray over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. If you prefer, you can use a grill pan on the stove.
6. Serving: Once the skewers are ready, serve them warm, with an extra ketchup or Greek yogurt sauce on the side. A side of fresh salad greens or a quinoa salad would complement this dish perfectly.
Variations and suggestions
- Add protein: You can incorporate tofu cubes or mushrooms for a heartier vegetarian option.
- Spices: Instead of paprika, experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme to add a Mediterranean flavor.
- Sweet skewers: Try adding fruit, such as pineapple or peaches, for a sweet-sour contrast.
Nutritional benefits
These vegetable skewers are rich in vitamins and minerals, providing an excellent source of fiber and essential nutrients. Olive oil contributes healthy fatty acids and honey adds a natural burst of energy. Each serving contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the vegetable variety.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Although fresh vegetables are recommended for optimal taste, you can also use frozen vegetables, but be sure to thaw and drain well before marinating.
2. How can I spice up skewers? You can add chili sauce to the marinade or sprinkle chilli flakes on the skewers before cooking.
3. Is there a vegan option for the marinade? Yes, you can replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a completely vegan marinade.
These delicious veggie skewers are not only easy to prepare, but also very versatile, ideal for grilling, picnics or parties. Try them and enjoy a healthy and tasty dish perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon broth, 1 teaspoon hot paprika, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 zucchini sliced, 1 red bell pepper + 1 yellow bell pepper sliced large, 2 onions sliced lengthwise, 20 wooden skewers
