Essential’s Guide to BBQ’s This Summer
19/07/2024
Summer is synonymous with barbecues, and at Essential, we believe in enjoying this beloved tradition with a mindful, plant-based twist. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based dishes to your diet, we have a range of delectable, eco-friendly BBQ ideas that are sure to impress your guests and align with your values. Here’s how to create a BBQ feast that’s not only delicious but also kind to animals and the planet.
1. Vegan Burgers: The Star of the Show
The centrepiece of any BBQ is undoubtedly the burger. Today’s vegan burger options, such as those from Moving Mountains, VBites, or SGAIA are juicy, flavourful, and grill to perfection.
Recipe Idea: Ultimate Vegan BBQ Burgers
- Ingredients: Moving Mountains burgers, whole grain buns, vegan cheddar alternative, lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and BBQ sauce.
- Instructions: Grill the Moving Mountains burgers according to the package instructions. Toast the buns lightly on the grill. Assemble the burgers with cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a generous slathering of BBQ sauce. Serve hot and enjoy the satisfying taste without the guilt.
2. Grilled Veggies: Colourful and Nutritious
Veggie kabobs are a BBQ staple and can be customised with a variety of seasonal, organic vegetables. They’re not only vibrant and nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Recipe Idea: Rainbow Veggie Kabobs
- Ingredients: Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, courgette, red onion, mushrooms, and large chunks of marinated tofu.
- Instructions: Cut the vegetables and tofu into uniform pieces and thread them onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favourite herbs. Grill the kabobs for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Serve as a colourful side dish or main course.
3. Vegan Sausages: A Hearty Alternative
For a hearty addition to your BBQ, try grilling vegan sausages. There is a great deal of delicious options that are perfect for grilling and bursting with lots of flavour.
Recipe Idea: Grilled Vegan Sausage with Peppers and Onions
- Ingredients: Vegan sausages, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, and ciabatta.
- Instructions: Slice the bell peppers and onions, then toss them in olive oil. Grill the vegetables and vegan sausages until they’re nicely charred. Serve the sausages in ciabatta rolls topped with the grilled peppers and onions. Add a dollop of mustard or vegan mayo for extra flavour.
4. Vegan Sides: Perfect Accompaniments
No BBQ is complete without delicious side dishes. From potato salad to coleslaw, there are plenty of vegan options to round out your meal.
Recipe Idea: Creamy Vegan Potato Salad
- Ingredients: Baby potatoes, vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, dill pickles, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Boil the baby potatoes until tender, then cool and cut into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh dill. Add the potatoes and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill before serving.
Recipe Idea: Crunchy Vegan Coleslaw
Ingredients: Shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat. Let sit for at least an hour before serving.
Hosting a vegan BBQ is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavours of summer while staying true to your ethical values. By choosing plant-based proteins, vibrant vegetables, and delicious sides, you can create a BBQ feast that’s both satisfying and sustainable. At Essential, we’re proud to support your journey towards more conscious and compassionate living. Here’s to a season of flavourful grilling and joyous gatherings!