The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Grilling Vegetables

Grilling isn't just for meat. Vegetables take on a smoky, sweet character when cooked over a flame that you just can't get in a kitchen. If you are new to grilling veggies, start with these simple favorites.

The General Rules

• Oil is your friend: Toss veggies in oil before they hit the grill. This prevents sticking and helps them brown.
• Keep them large: Don't chop veggies too small or they will fall through the grates. Use a grill basket for smaller items like sliced mushrooms.
• Medium Heat: Most veggies do best on medium heat. Too high, and they char before they soften.

Top 3 Easy Veggies to Start With

1. Asparagus

Snap off the woody ends, toss in oil and salt, and grill perpendicular to the grates so they don't fall through. Cook for 4-6 minutes until tender but still crisp.

2. Corn on the Cob

You can grill it in the husk or shucked. For the best flavor, shuck it, oil it, and grill directly over the flames until you see charred kernels all around (about 10 minutes).

3. Bell Peppers

Cut into large flat planks. Grill skin-side down first until the skin starts to blister, then flip for 2 minutes. They become incredibly sweet and tender.

Veggie Grilling Times

For more equipment ideas, see our list of Essential Grilling Tools.