Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter are a delightful way to enjoy fresh summer vegetables. Perfect for grilling season, these kabobs are not only vibrant and flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. The unique addition of fajita butter elevates the taste, making them a fantastic side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Enjoy these colorful skewers packed with nutrients and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these kabobs quickly.
- Bursting with Flavor: The fajita butter adds a zesty kick that enhances the natural taste of the veggies.
- Versatile Side Dish: These kabobs pair well with almost any main course, making them great for any meal.
- Healthy Option: Loaded with fresh vegetables, this dish is low in calories and high in nutrition.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests at parties or family gatherings with these colorful and tasty skewers.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden skewers (or metal skewers)
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for assembling the vegetable kabobs, ensuring even cooking on the grill.
- Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that complements the fajita butter.
- Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like melted butter and seasoning for a uniform flavor.
Ingredients
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs: A healthy vegetarian skewer recipe loaded with fresh summer veggies and fajita butter. A fabulous side dish for picnics!
Fresh Vegetables
- 5 ears fresh corn
- 3 zucchini
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 large red onion
- 8 ounces small brussels sprouts
- 8 ounces mushrooms
Fajita Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick)
- 1 packet Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Skewers
- 12 thick wooden skewers (or metal skewers)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
Step 1: Prepare Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat, around 325 degrees F.
Step 2: Cut the Vegetables
Shuck the corn and cut it into 1 1/2-inch rounds. Slice the zucchini into 1-inch rounds. Chop the bell pepper and onions into 1 1/2-inch square pieces, discarding the seeds from the pepper. Trim the brussels sprouts as needed. Assemble all vegetables onto the skewers in a random pattern.
Step 3: Make Fajita Butter
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning Mix along with fresh lemon juice until well combined.
Step 4: Grill Using Metal Skewers
For metal skewers, grill dry for about 15 minutes while rotating them every 3-5 minutes. After that, brush with feta butter and grill for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 5: Grill Using Wooden Skewers
For wooden skewers, grill dry for about 20 minutes, rotating every 3-5 minutes. Once done grilling, remove from heat and generously brush with fajita butter. Serve warm!
How to Serve Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter are a delightful and colorful dish perfect for summer gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
On a Bed of Rice
- Fluffy White Rice: Serve the kabobs over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious fajita butter.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: For an extra burst of flavor, pair with cilantro lime rice that complements the vegetables beautifully.
With Fresh Dips
- Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole enhances the smokiness of the grilled vegetables.
- Salsa Verde: A zesty salsa verde adds a fresh kick that elevates the whole dish.
Accompanying Salads
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad can balance out the richness of the kabobs.
- Quinoa Salad: Serve with a quinoa salad for added protein and texture.
How to Perfect Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
To achieve the best results when making Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter, follow these helpful tips.
- Boldly Season Your Vegetables: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the natural flavors of each vegetable.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, in-season vegetables for maximum taste and nutrition.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
- Rotate Frequently: Rotate your skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and amazing grill marks.
- Monitor Heat Levels: Grill at medium-low heat to cook veggies thoroughly without burning.
- Brush Generously with Butter: Apply fajita butter both before and after grilling for enhanced flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
These kabobs pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchiness adds a satisfying contrast to the tender kabobs.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Serve loaded baked potatoes for a hearty addition alongside your kabobs.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn complements the flavors of your vegetable kabobs perfectly.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can be a refreshing side to enjoy during warm days.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad gives a sweet touch that pairs well with savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Skewer Soaking: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent this issue.
- Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many vegetables on each skewer can hinder even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
- Inconsistent Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
- Neglecting Fajita Butter Application: Forgetting to brush on fajita butter during and after grilling can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with the butter for maximum taste.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking too long will make the veggies mushy. Keep a close eye on your kabobs and remove them once they’re tender but still hold their shape.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Item: Store grilled vegetable kabobs in an airtight container.
- Item: They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Item: Let them cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
- Item: Wrap individual kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Item: Place wrapped kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Item: Use within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter?
Yes! Feel free to customize your kabobs with your favorite seasonal vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
How do I ensure my kabobs don’t stick to the grill?
To prevent sticking, make sure your grill is preheated and lightly oiled before placing the skewers on it.
What is the best way to serve Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter?
These kabobs make an excellent side dish for barbecues, picnics, or as a light main course paired with rice or quinoa.
Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning. Give it a try, and enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs with Fajita Butter are a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy fresh summer vegetables. Ideal for backyard barbecues or family picnics, these kabobs combine an array of colorful veggies with a zesty fajita butter that enhances their natural taste. The recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect go-to side dish that will impress your guests while keeping your meals nutritious. Packed with vitamins and rich flavors, these kabobs not only cater to vegetarians but also appeal to anyone looking for a healthy yet delicious addition to their table.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 5 ears fresh corn
- 3 zucchini
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 large red onion
- 8 ounces small brussels sprouts
- 8 ounces mushrooms
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1 packet Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat the grill to medium-low heat (325°F).
- Cut corn into rounds, zucchini into slices, and chop other vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Assemble the vegetables onto skewers in a random pattern.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in fajita seasoning and lemon juice.
- Grill skewers (20 mins for wooden, 15 mins for metal) while rotating every few minutes; brush with fajita butter during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Ensure even cooking by cutting all vegetables into uniform sizes. For added flavor, marinate the vegetables in fajita butter before grilling.
