Firing up the grill doesn’t have to mean skipping out on plant-based options. Vegan BBQ mains are hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress even the most dedicated meat lovers!
1. Smoky BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Jackfruit is a plant-based star when it comes to mimicking pulled pork. Slow-cooked in a smoky barbecue sauce and served on a toasted bun, it’s the perfect messy yet satisfying main. Add a crunchy coleslaw topping for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
This sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s proof that jackfruit belongs on every grill master’s menu.
2. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks
Portobello mushrooms bring a meaty texture and robust flavor to the barbecue. Marinate them in a blend of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and soy sauce before grilling to perfection. Serve them as standalone steaks or on a bun with all the fixings.
They are juicy, smoky, and irresistibly good—a plant-based alternative that holds its own next to traditional BBQ fare.
3. BBQ Lentil Meatloaf
Lentils transform into a hearty and flavorful meatloaf that’s ideal for grilling. Combine cooked lentils with oats, onions, and your favorite spices, then shape the mixture into a loaf.
Brush on a generous layer of BBQ sauce before grilling to create a sticky, caramelized crust. Slice it thick and serve with grilled vegetables for a wholesome meal.
4. Grilled Vegan Sausages
Vegan sausages have come a long way, and they’re perfect for BBQ season. Whether you choose store-bought or homemade options, grilling adds a smoky char that elevates their flavor.
Top them with sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mustard for a classic touch. Serve in a bun or alongside a fresh salad for a complete plate. A must-have for any cookout!
5. BBQ Cauliflower Steaks
Thick slices of cauliflower transform into hearty BBQ steaks with the right seasoning. Coat them in your favorite barbecue sauce and grill until tender with crispy edges.
The smoky flavor and meaty texture make these steaks a standout option. Pair with roasted potatoes or a green salad for a satisfying dish. They’re proof that cauliflower can do it all.
6. Charred Veggie Kebabs
Veggie kebabs are a colorful and delicious way to enjoy grilled vegetables. Skewer a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, then brush with a marinade of olive oil, lemon, and herbs. Grill until lightly charred and serve hot off the skewers.
These kebabs are as versatile as they are vibrant. Perfect for adding a pop of color to your BBQ spread.
7. Grilled Tofu Skewers
Tofu takes on a whole new life when marinated and grilled to perfection. Cut firm tofu into cubes and marinate in a tangy BBQ sauce or a spicy soy-ginger glaze. Thread onto skewers and grill until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
They are packed with flavor and protein—a great way to win over even the tofu skeptics.
8. BBQ Seitan Ribs
Seitan ribs bring a chewy, meaty texture that’s perfect for slathering in barbecue sauce. Shape the seitan into rib-like strips and grill until caramelized and smoky. Serve with a side of corn on the cob or coleslaw for a true BBQ feast.
Sticky, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful, they’re a bold choice that will leave everyone impressed.
9. Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill
Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, black beans, and spices are a wholesome addition to any BBQ. Wrap them in foil and grill until the peppers are tender and the filling is warm and flavorful. Top with avocado or vegan cheese for added richness.
Both nutritious and delicious, they make a great option for health-conscious grill-goers.
10. BBQ Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potato wedges coated in BBQ seasoning are a smoky, slightly sweet treat. Grill them until caramelized and tender, then sprinkle with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime. These wedges make a fantastic side or a unique BBQ main when paired with a dipping sauce.
They’re simple, flavorful, and perfect for summer evenings. A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
11. Grilled Eggplant Rounds
Eggplant becomes rich and smoky when grilled with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Top with tahini sauce or a dollop of vegan pesto for extra flavor.
The rounds are tender, juicy, and incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main dish or as part of a larger BBQ spread because they’re a great way to highlight seasonal produce!
12. Vegan BBQ Pizza
Pizza on the grill is a fun and unexpected addition to your BBQ lineup. Use a vegan crust, top with BBQ sauce, grilled veggies, and plant-based cheese, and cook directly on the grill for a smoky twist.
The charred crust adds an authentic touch that oven baking can’t replicate. Slice it up and watch it disappear. It’s a creative way to bring pizza to the party.
13. Grilled Tempeh Steaks
Tempeh is a nutrient-packed protein that shines on the grill. Marinate it in a blend of soy sauce, maple syrup, and smoked paprika, then grill until crispy on the edges. Serve with a side of grilled asparagus or a fresh slaw for a balanced plate.
Tempeh steaks are hearty, smoky, and packed with flavor. They’re a plant-based favorite for BBQ enthusiasts.
14. BBQ Vegan Burgers
No BBQ is complete without a good burger, and vegan options are endless. Whether you make patties from black beans, chickpeas, or store-bought alternatives, grilling adds a delicious char.
Load them up with your favorite toppings, from lettuce and tomato to vegan cheese and avocado. Serve with a side of fries or a fresh salad for the ultimate meal. These burgers are as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.
15. Smoky Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple with butter rum sauce is a tropical delight that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Fresh or canned pineapple slices are brushed with a bit of coconut oil, which adds a subtle sweetness and helps the pineapple caramelize beautifully on the grill.
Drizzled with a rich butter rum sauce, each bite is a blend of sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors that feels like a taste of paradise.
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