Grilled Vegetable Sliders

Name: Grilled Vegetable Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup mushrooms, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 whole-grain slider buns; 1/2 cup aioli or your choice of spread; Lettuce or spinach for garnish; Sliced tomatoes (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Grilled Vegetable Sliders, especially during summer barbecues with friends and family. The vibrant colors and smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables are simply irresistible. Each bite is a burst of freshness, with a perfect balance of textures from the creamy spread to the crunchy veggies. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be customized according to your taste, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Trust me, these sliders will brighten up your meal table and leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:01:15.664Z

When creating these Grilled Vegetable Sliders, I set out to combine vibrant seasonal veggies with bold flavors. Grilling the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and brings out a lovely char, while a spread of zesty aioli adds a creamy contrast. I found that marinating the vegetables briefly before grilling helps them soak up all that flavor, making each bite delicious.

One of my favorite tips is to grill the slider buns for a minute or two alongside the vegetables. This gives them a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tender, juicy veggies. Trust me, your guests will be thrilled with this delicious vegetarian option!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh, seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection
Customizable with your favorite sauces and toppings
A healthy alternative to traditional sliders

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When it comes to grilling vegetables for sliders, selecting the right produce can significantly enhance the flavor profile. Zucchini and bell peppers are excellent choices due to their natural sweetness and moisture, which helps them retain juiciness on the grill. Red onions add a delicious sharpness, while mushrooms contribute a meaty texture. For a twist, consider adding eggplant or asparagus, which also grill beautifully and add unique flavors. Remember, using seasonal vegetables will yield the best-tasting results.

Cutting the vegetables into uniform sizes is crucial for even cooking. Aim for roughly 1/4-inch thick slices or strips so that they cook at the same rate. If you're using heartier vegetables, like raw potato slices, it's best to parboil them first to ensure they grill evenly and become tender on the inside without burning on the outside.

The Art of Grilling

Preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F, is vital for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavors. If your grill is too hot, the vegetables may char on the outside before cooking through. For best results, brush the grill grates with oil before placing the vegetables; this will help prevent sticking and promote even cooking. Keep an eye on them, turning every couple of minutes until they are tender with visible grill marks, about 5-7 minutes is ideal.

If you're cooking multiple batches, you might want to use a grilling basket, especially for smaller pieces like mushrooms and onions. This allows for easy flipping and prevents them from falling through the grates. Once the veggies are done, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for a moment; this helps intensify their flavors and ensures they are moist when assembled into sliders.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While aioli is a fantastic spread for these sliders, consider experimenting with different toppings and sauces to elevate the flavor. A spicy harissa or a tangy balsamic glaze drizzled over the grilled vegetables can add an exciting kick. You could also add slices of avocado for creaminess or pickled jalapeños for an extra layer of spice. Don't shy away from mixing greens; arugula or kale can add a peppery bite, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the grilled vegetables.

For an added touch, serve the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This balance of textures and flavors will elevate your summer barbecue experience, impressing your friends and family. And if you're looking to make this recipe your own, feel free to experiment with different types of buns; gluten-free options or whole-wheat buns can accommodate various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Grilled Vegetable Sliders

Vegetable Ingredients

1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, cut into strips
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

4 whole-grain slider buns
1/2 cup aioli or your choice of spread
Lettuce or spinach for garnish
Sliced tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Grill the Vegetables

Preheat the grill over medium heat. Place the prepared vegetables on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they're tender and have nice grill marks.

Toast the Buns

While the vegetables are grilling, place the slider buns cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until they're toasted.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a layer of aioli on each toasted bun. Layer the grilled vegetables generously on the bottom half and top with lettuce and sliced tomatoes if desired. Place the other half of the bun on top and press gently.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm, and enjoy them with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro to the aioli. Also, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or even add cheese if you like!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled vegetables, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be used in various ways; toss them in salads, blend them into a vegetable spread, or enjoy them cold in sandwiches. When reheating, a quick stir-fry or a few minutes in the microwave will bring back their flavors, but be cautious not to overheat, which can lead them to become mushy.

For the slider buns, wrap any leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a resealable bag. They can stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. If you want to prolong their life, consider freezing the buns. Just make sure to separate each bun with parchment paper before freezing to prevent them from sticking together. They can then be toasted directly from frozen.

Nutritional Boosts

To further enhance the nutrition of these sliders, consider adding a protein source. Grilled chickpeas or a layer of hummus can provide a protein boost, making the meal more satisfying, especially for vegetarian or vegan guests. Additionally, topping with a sprinkle of hemp seeds or crumbled feta cheese can introduce healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor.

Superfoods like spinach or kale can be packed between the grilled vegetables and the bun for additional vitamins and minerals. Mixing in herbs such as fresh cilantro or basil can also elevate the freshness, adding a delightful aromatic punch that complements the smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the grilled vegetables in advance?

Yes, you can grill the vegetables a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the sliders.

→ What can I substitute for aioli?

You can use store-bought mayonnaise, hummus, or even a spicy sauce if you prefer some heat!

→ Are these sliders vegan-friendly?

Yes, as long as you choose a vegan-friendly spread and slider buns, these sliders are completely vegan.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well before grilling.