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Ultimate Grilled Vegan Summer BBQ

grilled vegan BBQ recipe - featured image

A flavorful and easy vegan BBQ recipe featuring a smoky, tangy marinade and a medley of grilled veggies and tofu, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
  • 1 cup mushrooms, halved or quartered (baby bella or cremini)
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 package (14 oz / 400 g) extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu by removing it from packaging, draining excess water, wrapping in a clean kitchen towel, and placing a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, minced garlic, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, cumin, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Cut the red bell pepper into large chunks, slice zucchini lengthwise, halve mushrooms, and wedge the red onion. Cut pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place all veggies and tofu in a large bowl.
  4. Pour the marinade over the tofu and veggies. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375ยฐF). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
  6. Arrange tofu cubes and veggies on the grill in a single layer. Grill each side for about 3-5 minutes, turning carefully with tongs. Brush with leftover marinade halfway through grilling.
  7. Grill corn kernels in a grill basket or pan, shaking frequently, until lightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
  8. Transfer grilled tofu and veggies to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Press tofu for at least 30 minutes to absorb marinade and prevent crumbling. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours, for best flavor. Oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning marinade sugars. Flip tofu often to get a crispy crust without drying out. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days and reheat best in a skillet or under the broiler.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan BBQ, grilled tofu, summer BBQ, plant-based, grilled vegetables, smoky marinade, vegan grilling, healthy vegan recipe