Picture a sun-soaked backyard, laughter echoing through the air as friends gather around a crackling grill. It was during one such warm summer evening that I decided to create a dish that would not only celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season but also bring a colorful twist to the traditional barbecue. The result? These Fiesta Grilled Vegetable Skewers topped with a zingy Spicy Avocado Drizzle that brings every bite to life!
Ingredients
1 large zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, whole
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
For the Spicy Avocado Drizzle
1 ripe avocado
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt, to taste
Water, as needed for consistency
Instructions
Begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
Thread the marinated vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating the colors and shapes for a vibrant presentation. Make sure to pack them tightly enough to hold together but not so tight that they can’t cook evenly.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once ready, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
While the skewers are grilling, prepare the Spicy Avocado Drizzle. In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocado, lime juice, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Once the skewers are perfectly grilled, remove them from the heat and drizzle with the Spicy Avocado sauce. Serve them warm, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
These Fiesta Grilled Vegetable Skewers are not just a feast for the taste buds; they are a celebration of color and flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the mingling of smoky vegetables with the creamy, spicy drizzle that ties the dish together beautifully!