If you're looking for a vibrant, healthy dish that's both simple and satisfying, this Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Platter is a must-try. Packed with colorful veggies and a tangy marinade, it's perfect for a summer barbecue or as a side dish any time of year.
The base of our dish starts with the grill-friendly vegetables. The red bell pepper and yellow bell pepper bring a sweet, slightly smoky flavor once grilled. The zucchini and yellow squash offer a tender texture and mild taste that soaks up the marinade beautifully. Red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite, while cherry tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness. The marinade, featuring balsamic vinegar, provides a tangy depth balanced by the smoothness of olive oil. Minced garlic infuses aromatic notes, and the dried oregano and dried basil lend a classic Italian touch. Salt and pepper are the essential seasonings that tie it all together.
This platter pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making a wholesome and balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a grain like quinoa or couscous. If you're hosting, consider setting it out as a colorful appetizer or side dish at your next gathering.
Start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This forms the flavor foundation for our veggies.
Add all the sliced vegetables and the cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss everything well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the veggies soak up all that goodness. If you're in a rush, 30 minutes at room temperature will do, but if you have time, let them marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
While the vegetables are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your grill. Once hot, place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Be careful not to overcrowd them. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes, flipping only once to get those beautiful grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and slightly charred.
Once grilled, remove the vegetables and arrange them on a platter. You can add fresh herbs if you want even more color and flavor. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!