There’s nothing quite like a summer BBQ, where the sizzling sounds and smoky aromas set the perfect scene for outdoor feasting (especially around Christmas time!). But imagine elevating the experience with fresh, homegrown veggies and herbs straight from your Vegepod! Whether you're grilling for friends or enjoying a quiet evening with family, your Vegepod can provide the ultimate BBQ ingredients.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best vegetables to grill, creative herb-infused recipes and refreshing summer BBQ salads to make your backyard cookouts truly unforgettable.
Best veggies for the BBQ
Delicious homegrown veggies for your grill
Grilling veggies is a quick and delicious way to showcase the fresh flavours of your Vegepod. Here are the top grill-friendly vegetables to grow in your Vegepod and how to prepare them for the ultimate BBQ experience:
- Zucchini: Slice zucchini lengthwise and drizzle with olive oil and garlic before grilling for a lightly charred and tender delight.
- Eggplant: Slice eggplants into rounds and season with olive oil, salt and pepper. Grill until smoky and caramelised, perfect for an antipasto platter.
- Capsicum: Roast the capsicum whole, then peel the charred skin to reveal soft, sweet flesh that’s perfect as a side or topping.
- Cherry tomatoes: Thread onto skewers for easy grilling. Their burst of sweet, smoky flavour makes them a hit for any BBQ.
Tips for perfect BBQ veggies
- Pre-marinate for flavour: Let your veggies soak in olive oil, herbs and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows them to truly marinate in the flavour!
- Use a grilling basket: This handy tool prevents smaller veggies like cherry tomatoes from falling through the grates.
Herb-infused summer BBQ recipes
Elevate your BBQ with fresh herbs
Fresh herbs can transform simple grilled dishes into gourmet creations. Your Vegepod is perfect for growing an array of herbs that pair beautifully with summer BBQs.
Savoury herb recipes perfect for a BBQ
- Rosemary garlic marinade: Mix olive oil, crushed garlic and chopped rosemary for a marinade perfect for veggie kebabs or tofu steaks.
- Thyme-infused grilled potatoes: Slice potatoes into wedges, coat with olive oil and fresh thyme, and grill until crispy.
- Parsley and chive butter: Blend softened butter with chopped parsley and chives for a mouth-watering topping for grilled corn.
- Basil pesto drizzle: Whip up a fresh pesto with basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Drizzle over grilled capsicum or toss with salad greens.
How to use Vegepod herbs in your BBQ recipes
- Pairing herbs with veggies: Taste-testing is the perfect way to see which herbs go with which veggies. For example, rosemary complements zucchini, while basil pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
- Create herb bundles: Tie a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary and sage into bundles to place on the grill. They’ll release aromatic flavours as your veggies cook.
Refreshing summer BBQ salads
Fresh and flavourful salads with your harvest
No BBQ is complete without fresh salads, and your Vegepod provides the perfect produce to create vibrant sides.
Quick and easy salad recipes
- Grilled zucchini and cherry tomato salad: Toss grilled zucchini slices and cherry tomatoes with balsamic glaze, fresh basil and feta cheese.
- Spinach and herb quinoa salad: Combine cooked quinoa with spinach, parsley and chives. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt for a refreshing and healthy salad.
Tips for creating BBQ-ready salads
- Harvest freshly: Pick your veggies and herbs just before preparing to maximise crunch and flavour.
- Add a smoky twist: Incorporate grilled veggies into your salads to add depth and texture.
BBQ hosting tips for beginners
How to impress guests with your pod-to-plate creations
A summer BBQ isn’t just about the food – it’s also about creating an unforgettable experience for your guests.
- Prep ahead for stress-free entertaining: Pre-cut veggies and mix marinades the night before to save time and reduce mess. You can learn more about preserving your Vegepod bounty here.
- Showcase your harvest: Give your guests a quick tour of your Vegepod setup and share tips on how they can grow their own BBQ-ready produce. You can breathe new life into your garden with some simple steps outlined in this blog.
- Pair food and drinks: Impress your guests with herb-infused cocktails like rosemary lemonade or basil mojitos to complement your grilled dishes.
With homegrown veggies and herbs, your summer BBQs can be both delicious and sustainable. Grilled zucchini, herb-infused marinades and vibrant salads are just a few ways your Vegepod can enhance your next outdoor feast.
So, fire up the grill, harvest your fresh produce and let your garden shine at your next summer BBQ.
Ready to grow your own BBQ-ready harvest? Explore the Vegepod range today and enjoy the satisfaction of fresh, homegrown produce for all your summer gatherings!