How to Make a Mexican Spiced Grilled Vegetables Dish
Mexican cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, and a grilled vegetables dish seasoned with traditional spices captures this essence beautifully. Whether you're preparing a side dish for a barbecue or a vegetarian main course, this Mexican spiced grilled vegetables recipe will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, sliced into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Slice the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion, and leave the cherry tomatoes whole. Ensure the pieces are roughly the same size for even grilling.
2. Season the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the sliced vegetables with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the seasoning. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill
If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and wait until they are glowing hot. For gas grills, preheat on medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Vegetables
Once the grill is ready, place the seasoned vegetables onto the grates. Arrange them in a single layer for best results. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they develop nice grill marks and become tender. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the vegetable slices.
5. Serve and Garnish
Remove the grilled vegetables from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. You can serve them warm as a side dish or over rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Tips for Success
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like asparagus, corn, or eggplant for diverse flavors and textures.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- For those who enjoy herbs, try adding fresh lime juice or zest just before serving to elevate the dish further.
This Mexican spiced grilled vegetables dish is not just colorful and appetizing; it also provides a healthy option loaded with nutrients. It pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian main course. Enjoy the bold flavors of Mexico in your cooking with this quick and easy recipe!