Welcome to National Grilling Month! With the summer sun shining bright, it's the perfect time to fire up the grill. While the main attraction is often burgers and hot dogs, don't forget to throw some vegetables on the grill as well. Grilling vegetables can transform their flavors and make them an exciting addition to your meal. For seniors, incorporating more vegetables into their diet is a great way to improve health, savor delicious flavors, and add variety to their meals, as Senior Helpers West Pasco will outline.
Classic Grilled Vegetables
When it comes to grilling, classics like corn on the cob and veggie kebabs never disappoint. They are simple yet delicious. Brush corn on the cob with butter and sprinkle with a little salt before wrapping it in foil for a juicy, sweet treat.
For veggie kebabs, skewer chunks of bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious addition to the grill. For both, grill over medium heat until they're tender and slightly charred.
Exploring New Vegetable Options
If you're looking to spice things up, try incorporating some new vegetables into your grilling this season. Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is a perfect side dish, offering a zesty punch and a slight crunch. Just coat the spears with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon zest before grilling. Eggplant slices with balsamic glaze are another delicious option.
Slice the eggplant, brush it with oil, and grill until it is soft. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor. For a meat substitute, try grilling portobello mushrooms. These meaty mushrooms can be marinated and grilled, offering a satisfying alternative to beef burgers.
Seasonal and Local Produce
Using local, seasonal produce is beneficial not only for flavor but also for the community. In the Pasco/Pinellas area, you can find a variety of fresh vegetables from nearby farms. Incorporate them into your meals for an authentic local taste. For example, grilled zucchini and squash with herbs are abundant in the summer. Slice them lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with your favorite herbs before grilling.
Innovative Grilling Techniques
There are several ways to take your grilled vegetable game to the next level. Try using foil packets for mixed vegetables by combining your favorite chopped vegetables in a foil packet with a seasoning of your choice. This method locks in flavors and makes for an easy cleanup. Plank grilling can infuse vegetables with subtle, smoky flavors. Marinating vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs can also enhance their taste when grilled.
3 Easy and Flavorful Recipes
Here are some simple yet tasty recipes to try:
- Grilled bell peppers stuffed with quinoa: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with a cooked quinoa mixture. Grill until the pepper's skin is charred and the filling is warm.
- Charred tomatoes with garlic and basil: Grill whole tomatoes until they start blistering. Mash slightly and toss with garlic and fresh basil for a side dish bursting with flavor.
- Sweet potato wedges with a spicy kick: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika before grilling for an added spicy touch.
As we celebrate National Grilling Month, it's the perfect time to incorporate vegetables into your grilling routine. Trying out new recipes and techniques can make grilling a fun and flavorful experience. Enjoy the benefits of adding more vegetables to your meals while reveling in the joys of outdoor cooking.
Get Cooking Support From Senior Helpers
For more cooking tips or assistance with your grilling endeavors in the Pasco/Pinellas area, don't hesitate to contact us at Senior Helpers West Pasco. We provide senior care services in and around Wesley Chapel, Trinity, Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, and Oldsmar.