The grill is a great way to add smokey, tender flavor to almost any vegetable or meat dish. However, you should always make sure to grill vegetables and fruit with care -- overcooked vegetables can be charred on the outside but raw on the inside, and over-grilled fruits and vegetables can end up tasting very burnt.
1. Build a Medium-Hot Fire:
Vegetables and fruits tend to cook better on moderately hot grills rather than blazing flames, so make sure yours is at the proper temperature before you begin grilling. To test the temperature of your grill, hold your hand five inches above the grill grate for three to four seconds. Get the most delicious yet simple homemade recipes from our site.
2. Make the Right Cut:
Maximizing surface area is the key to achieving that caramelized, browned flavor when grilling, so it's important to ensure your vegetables and fruit are cut to the proper size. Larger hunks of produce can take longer to cook on the grill than smaller, thin pieces.
3. Brush with Oil:
When grilling, oil is necessary to help prevent your food from sticking and burning to the grill grates. Whether you choose extra-virgin olive oil or another neutral, high-heat oil, it's important to brush just enough of the oil on your vegetables and fruits to coat each side thoroughly.
4. Pair Veggies with Similar Skewers:
One of the best things you can do to make sure your grilled vegetables and fruit cook evenly is to keep similar items together on a skewer, such as softer veggies like mushrooms and tomatoes paired with firmer foods like onions and peppers.
5. Stay Clean:
Cleaning your grill is the most important thing you can do before cooking, and you should wipe down the grates with a wire brush after each use. This will remove any grit or burnt-on food residue and prevent flare-ups from happening.
6. Don't Let Your Food Stick:
You can also create a non-stick surface on your grill by using the smear of a half potato on the grate before you cook your vegetables and fruits. You can also brush some extra-virgin olive oil on your smear of potato, which will help to prevent your foods from sticking and burnt, but you should be careful not to overdo it.
7. Use a Good Rub:
The most effective way to season your meat is to marinade it in a dry rub, like a salty soy sauce or a spicy chipotle powder. Dunking your meat in a rub 12 to 24 hours before grilling will help the rub penetrate the meat and stay in contact with it while cooking.
8. Grill Up Some Healthy Eats:
You can't go wrong with grilled fruit and vegetables. They're a healthy addition to any meal, and they'll be sure to delight your guests.
Besides being healthier, grilled vegetables are also delicious and easy to prepare. If you're looking for a quick, healthy meal that will satisfy the entire family, try making grilled veggie sandwiches or grilled vegetable kebabs