Grilled Vegetable Sliders

Name: Grilled Vegetable Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 portobello mushrooms, stems removed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 whole grain slider buns; 1 cup hummus or avocado spread; Fresh arugula or spinach leaves; Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love experimenting with fresh vegetables, and these Grilled Vegetable Sliders have quickly become a favorite in our house. They are not only vibrant and delicious but also pack a satisfying texture that can please even the most devoted meat lovers. The juxtaposition of charred veggies with creamy spreads brings out a medley of flavors that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I often serve these during gatherings, and they never fail to impress, allowing everyone to enjoy a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:10:25.362Z

When I first decided to create Grilled Vegetable Sliders, I wanted to showcase the flavors of summer. I experimented with a variety of vegetables and found that zucchini, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms worked harmoniously together. Grilling them enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor that takes this dish to the next level. A secret tip is to brush the vegetables with a homemade marinade before grilling, which infuses them with a delightful zest.

In my kitchen, the joy of grilling these vegetables often spills over into a fun family activity. It’s a chance to get everyone involved, allowing us to chop, season, and grill together. We’ve even turned it into a mini cook-off where each person creates their own slider combo! It’s about relishing these moments as much as enjoying the meal itself.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh, seasonal flavors that burst with every bite
A delightful alternative to traditional sliders, satisfying vegetarian and meat-eater alike
Perfectly portable for picnics or backyard events, making entertaining a breeze

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The success of your Grilled Vegetable Sliders largely depends on the quality and freshness of the vegetables you choose. Opt for seasonal produce when possible, as they not only have better flavor but also optimal texture. Zucchini and bell peppers are great choices for grilling due to their water content, which helps them stay juicy. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding vegetables like eggplant or asparagus for a unique twist.

Cutting the vegetables into even slices is crucial for uniform cooking. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness; this allows them to develop beautiful grill marks while ensuring they cook through without becoming mushy. If you're using mushrooms, portobello is excellent because they have a meaty texture, but don’t hesitate to substitute with other types. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary.

Perfecting Your Grill Technique

Grilling is an art that benefits from a little attention to detail. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential for achieving those charred markings that add flavor and visual appeal. It usually takes about 10-15 minutes for a charcoal grill and 5-10 minutes for a gas grill to reach the optimal temperature. If you notice the flames flare up, quickly move the veggies to a cooler part of the grill to prevent charring too rapidly.

To check for doneness, look for tender veggies that can be easily pierced with a fork and have distinct grill marks. This typically takes 5-7 minutes per side. If you're grilling mushrooms, remember that they tend to release liquid; consider grilling them in a vegetable basket to avoid losing them through the grill grates.

Serving and Storage Tips

These sliders not only shine fresh off the grill but can also be enjoyed later. If you have leftovers, store the grilled veggies separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them briefly on the grill or in a skillet to revive their flavors, but avoid overheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.

For a delightful presentation at gatherings, tray up the assembled sliders with an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze on the side. This allows guests to add a personal touch to their sliders. You can also serve them with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your sliders:

For the Grilled Veggies

1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 portobello mushrooms, stems removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

4 whole grain slider buns
1 cup hummus or avocado spread
Fresh arugula or spinach leaves
Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your flavorful sliders:

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Season the Vegetables

In a bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill the Veggies

Place the seasoned vegetables on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have grill marks.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread hummus or avocado on each slider bun, then layer with grilled veggies and fresh greens.

Drizzle and Serve

Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top, close the sliders, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your sliders with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

Using a grill basket can help in grilling smaller vegetables or those that might fall through the grates. Additionally, letting the veggies marinate for 30 minutes before grilling can enhance their flavors even more.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for variations in flavor or accommodating dietary restrictions, feel free to experiment with the spreads. Swap hummus for a garlic aioli or a spicy harissa to liven things up. Alternatively, if you're avoiding gluten, consider using lettuce leaves wrapped around the grilled veggies instead of buns for a gluten-free option that’s still hearty.

For the greens, while arugula adds a peppery crunch, spinach provides a softer texture. You might even consider adding other toppings like sliced tomatoes or pickled onions for additional layers of flavor. Just remember to balance the flavors; for instance, if you add something tangy, you might want a sweeter spread to complement it.

Scaling This Recipe

This recipe scales beautifully for larger gatherings. The number of slider buns and veggies can easily be multiplied, but keep in mind that you may need to grill in batches. Cooking in smaller groups will allow for a better char on the vegetables instead of overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than grilling. When serving larger crowds, consider setting up a slider bar where guests can assemble their own with a variety of spreads and toppings.

For meal prep, you can grill veggies a day in advance and store them. Then, just assemble the sliders right before serving. This saves time while ensuring everything is fresh when it's time to eat. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors without the last-minute rush on grilling day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorites, such as eggplant, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes.

→ How do I store leftover sliders?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the grill or pan for the best flavor.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the vegetables ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead.