10 Amazing Vegetarian BBQ Ideas That Meat-Lovers Will Enjoy
Who says BBQ is only for carnivores? These vegetarian grilling ideas prove that plant-based dishes can be just as satisfying, smoky, and delicious as any meat dish.
1. Grilled Portobello Steaks
These meaty mushrooms are perfect for grilling:
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper
Method:
- Remove stems and clean caps
- Marinate gill-side up for 30 minutes
- Grill 4-5 minutes per side at medium-high heat
2. Smoky Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Thick-cut cauliflower slices get beautifully charred on the grill.
Tips:
- Cut 1-inch thick slices from the center
- Brush with olive oil and your favorite spices
- Grill covered for 10-12 minutes, flipping once
3. BBQ Jackfruit "Pulled Pork"
Young green jackfruit has a texture remarkably similar to pulled pork.
Recipe:
- Drain and rinse canned jackfruit
- Shred with two forks
- Toss with BBQ sauce
- Grill in a foil packet for 15-20 minutes
- Serve on buns with coleslaw
4. Grilled Halloumi Skewers
This firm cheese doesn't melt, making it perfect for grilling.
Combination ideas:
- Halloumi + cherry tomatoes + zucchini
- Halloumi + pineapple + bell peppers
- Halloumi + mushrooms + red onion
5. Loaded Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Steps:
- Wrap sweet potatoes in foil
- Grill for 45-60 minutes until tender
- Split open and load with:
- Black beans
- Grilled corn
- Avocado
- Lime crema
6. Vegetable Kebabs with Chimichurri
Mix and match your favorite vegetables:
Best vegetables for grilling:
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Mushrooms
Chimichurri sauce:
- Fresh parsley
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Oregano
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob Mexican-Style
Elote preparation:
- Grill corn directly on flames, rotating frequently
- Brush with mayonnaise
- Roll in cotija cheese
- Sprinkle with chili powder and lime juice
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill
Filling ideas:
- Quinoa + black beans + corn + cheese
- Rice + Mediterranean vegetables + feta
- Couscous + chickpeas + spinach
9. Grilled Tofu Steaks
For best results:
- Press tofu for 30 minutes to remove moisture
- Marinate for at least 2 hours
- Oil the grill grates well
- Grill 4-5 minutes per side
10. BBQ Seitan Ribs
Plant-based ribs that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
Key tips:
- Start with firm seitan
- Brush with BBQ sauce while grilling
- Let the sauce caramelize between coats
Creating a Complete Vegetarian BBQ Menu
Planning a vegetarian BBQ? Here's a balanced menu:
| Course | Options |
|---|---|
| Appetizer | Grilled halloumi, hummus with grilled pita |
| Main | Portobello steaks OR BBQ jackfruit |
| Sides | Grilled corn, vegetable kebabs |
| Dessert | Grilled peaches with ice cream |
Let AI Help You Plan
Use BBQ Menu AI with the vegetarian filter to create a complete plant-based BBQ menu tailored to your preferences!
Have a favorite vegetarian BBQ recipe? Share it in the comments!