Zesty Grilled Cauliflower Skewers
Elevate your summer grilling with these Zesty Grilled Cauliflower Skewers, a delightful and healthy dish perfect for barbecues and gatherings. Each skewer features tender-crisp cauliflower florets marinated in a tangy lemon and oregano dressing, enhanced with a subtle hint of heat from red pepper flakes. These skewers are not only visually appealing with their golden-brown grill marks but also packed with flavor, making them a terrific side dish or a vegetarian main. Serve them hot off the grill at your next cookout and impress your guests with this simple yet delicious vegetable dish.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cauliflower
1 (cut into large florets)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
fresh oregano
1 tablespoon (chopped)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
hot red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
olive oil
3 tablespoons (extra virgin recommended)
Instructions
1
Soak four 8-inch wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
2
Preheat your barbecue grill to medium heat while the skewers are soaking.
3
Prepare the cauliflower by cutting it into large, even florets, approximately the same size for consistent cooking.
4
Thread about 3 florets onto each skewer, ensuring they are securely in place.
5
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of hot red pepper flakes until well combined.
6
Gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of olive oil to create a smooth vinaigrette.
7
Using a brush, apply half of the vinaigrette mixture generously over the cauliflower skewers.
8
Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking before placing the skewers on the grill.
9
Close the grill lid and cook the skewers for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the cauliflower is tender-crisp and shows nice grill marks.
10
Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving platter and brush with the remaining vinaigrette before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Grilled Cauliflower Skewers?
They are a healthy and flavorful vegetable dish featuring cauliflower florets marinated in a tangy lemon and oregano dressing, grilled until tender-crisp.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
Is this cauliflower recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses only plant-based ingredients like cauliflower, lemon juice, herbs, and olive oil, making it completely vegan.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
How long should I soak the wooden skewers?
You should soak the 8-inch wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
What temperature should the barbecue grill be?
The grill should be preheated to medium heat.
How should I cut the cauliflower for the skewers?
The cauliflower should be cut into large, even florets to ensure consistent cooking across all skewers.
How many cauliflower florets go on each skewer?
Thread approximately 3 florets onto each 8-inch skewer.
What is in the zesty marinade?
The marinade consists of lemon juice, fresh chopped oregano, salt, hot red pepper flakes, and olive oil.
When do I apply the vinaigrette to the cauliflower?
Brush half of the vinaigrette onto the skewers before grilling and the remaining half after they are cooked.
How do I prevent the cauliflower from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the skewers on the grill.
How long do the skewers need to cook?
Cook the skewers for about 6 minutes on each side with the grill lid closed.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
The cauliflower is ready when it is tender-crisp and has visible golden-brown grill marks.
Are these skewers spicy?
They have a subtle hint of heat from the 1/8 teaspoon of hot red pepper flakes, but it is not overwhelming.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
While fresh oregano is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried oregano if necessary, though you may want to reduce the amount slightly.
What type of oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and healthy fats.
Can these be served as a main dish?
Yes, they can be served as a vegetarian main dish or a flavorful side dish for a barbecue.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
The primary flavors are tangy lemon, earthy oregano, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Yes, you can use metal skewers; if you do, you do not need to soak them in water first.
Is this a good recipe for summer gatherings?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as a delightful summer grilling dish perfect for cookouts.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 6 main ingredients: cauliflower, lemon juice, fresh oregano, salt, red pepper flakes, and olive oil.
Can I make this recipe on an indoor grill pan?
Yes, while designed for an outdoor barbecue, an indoor grill pan over medium heat will produce similar results.
What is the recommended size for the skewers?
The recipe suggests using 8-inch skewers.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Whisk the lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper flakes in a bowl, then gradually whisk in the olive oil.
Why should I close the grill lid while cooking?
Closing the lid helps maintain a consistent temperature and ensures the cauliflower florets cook through properly.
Can I prep the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can thread the cauliflower and prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time, then grill them just before serving.
Is the salt amount adjustable?
Yes, the 1/4 teaspoon of salt can be adjusted to your personal taste.
What does 'tender-crisp' mean?
It means the cauliflower is cooked enough to be easily bitten but still retains a slight firm texture rather than being mushy.
Are there any suggested tags for this recipe?
Common tags include grilled, vegetable skewers, cauliflower, barbecue, healthy, vegan, and gluten-free.
What should I do with the vinaigrette after grilling?
Brush the remaining half of the vinaigrette over the hot skewers immediately after removing them from the grill.