Citrus Herb Grilled Veggies

Name: Citrus Herb Grilled Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 cup asparagus, trimmed

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I love making Citrus Herb Grilled Veggies because they are not only colorful but bursting with flavor! The combination of citrus and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste that elevates any meal. Each bite is a delightful celebration of grill and zest, making them the ideal side dish or vegetarian main. Plus, they come together in just a short amount of time, allowing me to get a delicious meal on the table without any hassle. Trust me, once you try these veggies, they will become a staple in your outdoor grilling repertoire.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:49:28.017Z

When I first experimented with grilling veggies, I knew I wanted to infuse them with something fresh and vibrant. That’s when I decided to combine citrus juice with fresh herbs. The zing from the lemon and the fragrance of the herbs brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and the result was beyond my expectations!

After a few trial runs, I learned that marinating the veggies for at least 30 minutes truly allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. The slight char from the grill adds an irresistible smokiness, making every bite a celebration of summer. Make sure to mix up the veggie combinations for variety!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and tangy flavors from fresh citrus
A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables
Perfectly grilled for that smoky flavor

Mastering the Marinade

The Citrus Herb Marinade is what truly elevates the vegetables in this recipe. The combination of lemon and lime juices provides a bright acidity that not only enhances the flavors but also helps to tenderize the veggies, making them more enjoyable to eat. Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit, for a sweeter twist. Just be sure to maintain a balance between the citrus and the herbs, so the marinade doesn't become overpowering.

Letting the vegetables soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes allows them to absorb those wonderful flavors deeply. If time permits, marinate them for even longer—up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Just be cautious with delicate vegetables like zucchini, which can become mushy if left too long. A good rule of thumb is to keep firmer vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus in the marinade longer, while keeping lighter ones to shorter times.

Grilling Techniques for Success

For the best grilling results, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F (200-230°C). This temperature ensures that the vegetables get a nice char without being undercooked inside. To prevent sticking, you might consider oiling the grill grates lightly; this can be easily achieved by using a folded paper towel dipped in oil and a pair of tongs.

When grilling, ensure that the veggies are not overcrowded on the skewers or grill plate, as this can trap steam and hinder the desired smoky flavor. Aim for a single layer if possible and turn the vegetables every 2-3 minutes. You'll know they're ready when they've developed golden, charred edges and are fork-tender, which typically takes about 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Citrus Herb Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup asparagus, trimmed

Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and add the vegetables. Ensure they are well-coated.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, parsley, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Vegetables

Place the sliced vegetables in a large bowl, pour the marinade over, and toss to coat. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Grill the Veggies

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated veggies onto skewers (if using) and grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and charred.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with leftover herbs if desired.

These grilled veggies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any gathering.

Pro Tips

For a twist, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese just before serving for an extra layer of flavor!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Citrus Herb Grilled Veggies are not just a side dish; they can also shine as a vegetarian main. I recommend serving them over a bed of quinoa or a fresh salad to create a more substantial meal. Additionally, a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese can add a delightful creaminess that complements the vibrant flavors, making it even more satisfying.

For a lovely presentation, serve the grilled veggies on a large platter, drizzling them with a little extra olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving. Garnishing with additional chopped herbs like parsley or basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh aroma that enhances the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options

If you have leftovers, store the grilled veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can last up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps, making them a versatile addition to your meals throughout the week.

For meal prep, you can marinate the veggies ahead of time and keep them refrigerated before grilling. This is especially handy for busy weeknights; just cook them straight from the fridge—no need to bring them to room temperature. Additionally, consider grilling a larger batch to use in various recipes, such as wraps, bowls, or pizza toppings throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can substitute your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, eggplant, or even corn on the cob.

→ How long can I marinate the vegetables?

You can marinate them for up to 2 hours in the fridge if you want a more intense flavor.

→ Can these veggies be made in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just store them separately until you're ready to grill.

→ What can I serve with grilled veggies?

These veggies pair wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or can be tossed into a salad for a refreshing lunch.