Herbed Vinaigrette Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €10.86 · €1.81/serving

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (use high-quality for best flavor)Est. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1/4 cup fragrant basil pesto or Peppery Arugula PestoEst. price €0.75–€1.50
• Juice of 1 freshly squeezed lemon (strain to remove seeds)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1/2 pound tender okra, with stem ends delicately removed (pat dry to prevent sliminess)Est. price €1.50–€3.00
• 1 red bell pepper, carefully cored, deseeded, and sliced into elegant 2-inch wedgesEst. price €1.00–€2.50
• 1 yellow bell pepper, meticulously cored, deseeded, and cut into 2-inch wedgesEst. price €1.00–€2.50
• 1 red onion, artfully cut into 2-inch wedgesEst. price €0.50–€1.20
• 6 petite summer squash varieties (like golden zucchini or scallop squash), charmingly cut into 2-inch chunksEst. price €2.00–€4.00
• 1 cup plump cherry or grape tomatoes (use ripe for sweetness)Est. price €1.80–€3.50
• 1 cup fresh sage leaves, plucked from stems (gently pat dry with paper towel)Est. price €1.50–€3.00

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, pesto, and lemon juice until well combined using a whisk.

2. 2

   Start by lighting a charcoal or gas grill and allow the coals to burn until they turn into gray ash with a hint of red glow. In case of a gas grill, set it to medium heat. If you are planning to use wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water as you prepare the vegetables to avoid charring.

3. 3

   Thread the okra, red and yellow peppers, onion, squash, and tomatoes onto skewers, alternating between vegetables to create a colorful presentation. Intersperse a sage leaf every few vegetables for added flavor. Leave space at the bottom of each skewer for convenient handling while grilling.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  Grilled vegetable skewers have a long history in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in countries like Greece and Turkey. The use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon juice in the vinaigrette reflects the influence of Mediterranean flavors, known for their health benefits and vibrant tastes.

• Seasonal note

  This dish is best made in the summer when vegetables like okra, bell peppers, squash, and cherry tomatoes are in season. These vegetables are at their peak freshness and flavor during this time, making the skewers especially delicious.

• Health note

  Herbed vinaigrette grilled vegetable skewers are a nutritious choice as they are low in calories and high in fiber, providing 4g per serving. The dish is rich in healthy fats from olive oil and provides essential vitamins A, C, and K from the variety of vegetables used, contributing to overall well-being and immune…