The thought of barbecues and grilling usually conjures up images of burgers, brats, hot dogs and juicy steaks. However, there are many delicious and healthy vegetarian food options for the grill. From stuffed red peppers to veggie burgers, some vegetarian favorites might even entice the most die-hard meat eater. According to the American Dietetic Association, replacing grilled meat products with vegetarian fare could help lower your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk of hypertension and heart disease.
Vegetarian Meat Substitutes
Plant-based diets are on the rise, and major food manufacturers produce more vegetarian options to meet this demand. Vegetarians enjoy a variety of fake meat substitution products that include, but are not limited to, meatless chicken, hamburgers, brats, hot dogs, corn dogs and steak. The main ingredients in most of these products is soy or a wheat protein.
To cook the meat substitute, grill it as you would grill a meat product. However, the meat substitute will take significantly less time to cook. To avoid grilling the substitute where meat products have been, wrap the product in aluminum foil and cook on the grill with the foil. After five to ten minutes, unwrap and serve.
Corn on the Cob
An old fashioned staple, corn on the cob provides another grilled vegetarian food option. Grill the corn in the husk or remove the husk prior to cooking. Brush on a tablespoon or two of olive oil and sprinkle with salt or your choice of seasoning.
Stuffed Red Peppers
Grilled stuffed red peppers require more preparation time. To begin, cook two cups of brown rice in a stove pot according to the directions on the rice package. While the rice cooks, saute in a separate pan one small chopped onion in two tablespoons of olive oil with a few minced garlic cloves.
After one minute, add one cup of peas and a teaspoon of oregano and basil to the onions and garlic. Reduce heat. Add one medium diced tomato, one half cup of tomato sauce and the peas, onion and garlic mixture to the cooked rice pot. To obtain a creamier consistency, add in a half cup of vegan mayonnaise.
Leave the mixture on the stove for three to five minutes to cook all ingredients thoroughly. While it cooks, wash peppers and cut off tops to remove seeds. Wrap each individually in foil and grill for five to ten minutes.
Grilled Vegetable Medley
To prepare a grilled vegetable medley, mix one cup of olive oil with an Italian spice mix. The mix could include garlic powder, basil, parsley, oregano, herbes de Provence, pepper and salt. Allow the mixture to sit while you prepare the vegetables.
Next, slice zucchini, eggplant and potatoes into one half-inch sections. Quarter an onion and two to three bell peppers. Also include baby carrots and mushrooms. Dip all the vegetables into the olive oil spice mixture and place them on a piece of foil. Place the foil onto the grill rack to cook the vegetables.
Pineapple Rings
Remove the core and outer skin from a pineapple. Cut into one half-inch thick slices. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar and grill for two to three minutes.
Portobello Mushroom Sandwiches
Brush the portobello mushroom with olive oil and place on grill. Cook for approximately five minutes. Remove, place in a bun and add the condiments you would normally put on a burger.
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