How to Make French Grilled Veggie Skewers

French grilled veggie skewers, also known as "brochettes de légumes," are a delightful way to enjoy a colorful array of vegetables while harnessing the flavors of French cuisine. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply seeking a healthy meal, these skewers are both simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make French grilled veggie skewers that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

To create delicious French grilled veggie skewers, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 8 cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup of mushrooms (button or cremini), cleaned and left whole
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or herbes de Provence)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers

If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.

2. Chop the Vegetables

Wash and chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are similar in size for even cooking. The variety of colors not only enhances the presentation but also the nutritional value of your skewers.

3. Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. This aromatic marinade will infuse the veggies with rich flavors.

4. Marinate the Vegetables

Add the chopped vegetables to the marinade and stir well to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Assemble the Skewers

Once marinated, begin threading the vegetables onto the skewers. Alternate the colors and types of vegetables for a visually appealing presentation. For example: zucchini, mushroom, red bell pepper, onion, and cherry tomato.

6. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear on the veggies, locking in their juices and enhancing the flavors.

7. Grill the Skewers

Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as the veggies should retain a slight crunch.

8. Serve

Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Serve the French grilled veggie skewers warm, possibly with a side of garlic aioli or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Tips for the Best French Grilled Veggie Skewers

  • Experiment with different vegetables such as eggplant, asparagus, or corn for variety.
  • For added protein, consider adding firm tofu or halloumi cheese skewers alongside the veggies.
  • Feel free to customize the marinade by adding lemon juice, mustard, or your favorite spices.

French grilled veggie skewers are an easy and delicious way to embrace the flavors of summer while keeping your meals healthy. Perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, these skewers will bring a taste of France to your table!