The Ultimate Guide to Plant-Based Grilling: Fire Up Delicious Flavor

Memorial Day weekend signals the official start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a sizzling BBQ? But fear not, plant-based eaters! Plant-based grilling is a fantastic way to create delicious and satisfying meals that are completely meat-free.

Why Plant-Based Grilling?

Plant-based grilling offers a unique method of cooking vegetables and plant-based proteins. The open flame infuses food with a smoky depth of flavor that can’t be replicated indoors. Grilling also locks in moisture, keeping vegetables tender-crisp and searing a beautiful crust on plant-based proteins.

What to Throw on the Plant-Powered Grill?

Here are 10 fantastic plant-based grilling options to get you grilling like a pro:

Portobello Mushrooms:

These large, meaty mushrooms are perfect for grilling whole. Marinate them in a flavorful mixture of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and herbs, then grill until tender. Serve them:

• Plant-Powered Portobello Burgers: Pile your marinated masterpiece onto a toasted bun and load it up with your favorite burger fixings like lettuce, tomato, vegan cheese, and avocado.
• Portobello Fajitas: Slice the grilled mushroom and toss it with fajita-marinated red bell pepper and onion. Heat tortillas for a quick and flavorful plant-based fajita fiesta!
• Southwest Quinoa Stuffed Portobellos: Fill the portobellos with cooked quinoa with black beans, kernels of corn, seeded jalapenos, spices, and grill for a southwest take on a filling meal.

Tofu and Tempeh:

These versatile soy products can be marinated in a variety of sauces and grilled until firm and slightly crispy.  Try chipotle marinade for a smoky twist or a classic teriyaki for a crowd-pleaser.

• Power Bowl: Quick seared cubed tofu/tempeh for a power bowl filled with marinated grilled veggies. 
• GRILLED TOFU SANDWICH:  Grilled slab of tofu to create the meaty base of a grilled sandwich, filled with grilled eggplant, onion, red pepper, and zucchini. All topped with vegan mayo on a hearty bun. 
• Plant-Based “Burger” Patties: Mix tofu crumbles with a binder of seasoned Italian breadcrumbs and mashed white beans, and add seasonings of choice.  Form into patties and grill. 

Skewers: 

• Thread colorful bell peppers, onions, baby bella mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and tofu cubes onto skewers for a vibrant and flavorful side dish.  Marinate them in Italian dressing for extra zest. Mix and match your favorite veggies and proteins (like mock sausage slices) to add variety to this perfect weekly meal.

Eggplant Steaks: 

• Thick slices of eggplant can be grilled to create hearty “steaks.” Brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and grill until tender. Pair with a simple yellow rice and mixed veggie side and you have the perfect refreshing dinner that won’t weigh you down.

Zucchini and Summer Squash:  

• These mild-flavored squashes grill beautifully.  Cut them into thick slices or rounds, or slice them in half and grill them face down. Toss with olive oil and herbs, and grill until tender-crisp. Fill with a mix of seasoned tender black beans and top with a tahini sauce for a filling meal.

Corn on the Cob: 

• A summer BBQ staple! Simply dehusk until only the silk and last layer of husk remain.  Soak in water for 15 minutes, then grill for about 10 minutes until the remaining husk is charred and the kernels are plump and juicy. Remove remaining husk and top with vegan butter and salt or create a simple vegan elote using vegan mayo, vegan parm or feta, chili powder, and lime juice.

Grilled Asparagus: 

• Toss asparagus spears in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.  Grill for a few minutes per side until tender-crisp. Serve this side dish with any vegan protein for a complete meal in only minutes.

Grilled Vegan Cheese:

A few popular vegan cheese brands offer a “grilling cheeze” to mimic Greek Halloumi cheese. This brined cheese holds up well to grilling and adds a salty depth to your meal. Slice it thick, brush with olive oil, and grill for a minute or two per side.

Grilled Pineapple:

• A sweet and refreshing addition to the grill.  Cut pineapple slices into rings or wedges and grill until slightly caramelized. Add these to the top of vegan ice cream for a sweet dessert treat.

Grillable Plant-Based Proteins: Flavorful Foundations

Plant-based grilling isn’t just about veggies—there’s a whole world of grill-friendly proteins to explore. Tofu, tempeh, and seitan are excellent choices that soak up marinades beautifully. For a more convenient option, try store-bought vegan sausages, burger patties, or skewers.

Tips for success:

• Tofu: Use extra-firm and press it first to remove moisture.
• Tempeh: Steam briefly before marinating to mellow the flavor.
• Seitan: Slice into cutlets or skewers; it’s great with smoky spice blends.
• Meat alternatives: Many store-bought PLANT BASED SWAPS for pre-made plant-based burgers, brats, sausages, and hot dogs are available in your local market.  Follow the package instructions for grilling and enjoy them on buns with your favorite toppings. Quick note: These options may not be all that healthy, but can hit the spot when you are craving something indulgent.

Experiment with bold marinades like citrus-garlic, maple-mustard, or jerk seasoning to elevate your BBQ game.

Charcoal vs. Gas vs. Electric: Choosing the Right Grill for You

Deciding between a charcoal or gas grill depends on your preferences. Charcoal grills offer a smoky flavor and the satisfaction of traditional grilling, but require lighting and managing coals. Gas grills are quicker to heat up and offer precise temperature control, making them ideal for beginners. Electric grills are another option, offering smokeless convenience but with a less intense flavor.

This GOOD HOUSEKEEPING 8 BEST OUTDOOR GRILLS article offers a look into some highly rated grills. Consider your budget, desired level of involvement in the cooking process, and the types of flavors you prefer when making your choice.

Grilling Like a Pro: Choosing the Right Grill and Pan

While many plant-based grilling ingredients can be cooked directly on the grates, using a grill pan, basket, or griddle topper can offer additional versatility and convenience. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect tool:

• Grates: Perfect for vegetables like corn on the cob, portobello mushrooms (halved or whole), and tofu steaks. Just be sure to preheat the grates for even cooking and sear marks.
• Grill Basket: Ideal for smaller, more delicate items that might fall through the grates, like veggie burgers, tempeh crumbles, or sliced vegetables. A basket allows for easy flipping and keeps your food contained.
• Griddle Topper: This flat pan is ideal for creating restaurant-style griddle marks on veggie burgers, fajitas, or quesadillas. It’s also perfect for cooking soft ingredients like tofu scrambles or pancakes to extend grilling beyond typical lunch and dinner meals.

Easy Plant-Based BBQ Ideas: A Grilling Prep Checklist

Grilling success starts with the right prep. Here’s a quick checklist to get everything ready for a delicious cookout:

✅ Preheat grill for 10–15 minutes
✅ Clean and oil the grates
✅ Soak wooden skewers (at least 30 minutes)
✅ Slice vegetables and proteins evenly for consistent cooking
✅ Prep marinades at least 30 minutes in advance
✅ Set up a tray for cooked food to avoid cross-contamination
✅ Keep tongs and a grill brush handy

This list helps make your plant-based BBQ easy, stress-free, and flavorful.

Plant-based Grilling Clean-Up and Maintenance:

• Pre-Heat for Easy Cleaning: Before grilling, preheat your grill to high for 10-15 minutes. This will burn off any leftover food particles, making them easier to scrape away.
• Grill Brush: Once the grill is hot, use a grill brush to remove any remaining debris.
• Post-Grill Cleaning: If needed, while the grill is still warm, but not too hot to touch, use soapy water and a grill brush to scrub the grates.
• Deep Clean Occasionally: For a more thorough cleaning, you can remove the grates and soak them in hot, soapy water.

Store Leftovers Like a Pro: Tips for Grilled Plant-Based Goodness

Don’t let your grilled creations go to waste! Plant-based grilling leftovers are incredibly versatile.

Smart storage tips:

• Store grilled veggies in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Wrap grilled tofu or tempeh in foil for quick reheating.
• Freeze grilled seitan or veggie burgers in single layers for future meals.

Creative reuse ideas:

• Add chopped grilled veggies to salads, wraps, tacos, or pasta.
• Reheat BBQ tofu or burgers and serve over rice or quinoa bowls.
• Blend grilled corn and peppers into a smoky salsa or soup base.

Getting more meals from your BBQ makes it even more worthwhile.

With a little planning and these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying plant-based grilling BBQ spread that will be the envy of your Memorial Day gathering, and keep the grill fired up all summer long!