Steak Seasoning Does Wonders For Grilled Vegetables

From barbecues to picnics, graduation parties, and the Fourth of July, when folks are grilling out, it tends to be all about burgers and brats. If you're a plant-based eater, it's easy to end up with a paper plate full of side dishes on occasions like these, and sheepishly showing up with a pack of gray soy-based veggie dogs for the host to slam on the grill doesn't always go over well. If you're feeling a little left out, just remember that grilled veggies make for a dish that can be enjoyed by all. That is, if you prepare them well. Enter: steak seasoning.

Elevate your grilled veggies with meaty umami flavor, sans the meat. Thanks to steak seasoning's coarse granules compared to other spices, it'll better adhere to your veggies as they grill, adding a slightly gritty texture alongside bursts of flavor in every bite. Plus, using steak seasoning is a convenient time-saver for instantly creating flavor compared to other methods like marinating your veggies in sauce before grilling, which can take an extra 10 to 15 minutes (or as long as overnight). Big flavor doesn't have to take a big time investment — and eating meatless at the barbecue doesn't have to be a big deal.

To take your veggies to the next level, all you need to do is generously sprinkle them with steak seasoning before tossing 'em on the grill. Giving the veggies a light brushing of balsamic vinegar and olive oil  will help the seasoning stick. For best results, pick a vegetable that'll hold up structurally on the grill and pair well with the smoky flavor; asparagus, carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, ears of corn, zucchini planks, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, and fingerling potatoes are all killer options.

Steak seasoning is certainly not the only way to add smoky depth to veggies, but it's easier to track down in grocery stores than liquid smoke. It's also a vegan alternative to Worcestershire sauce, which typically contains anchovies. Plus, there's probably a good chance that you already have a jar of steak seasoning (or the necessary spices to make your own) hanging out in your pantry.

If you want to make your own, try a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, black and red pepper, coarse salt, and paprika. For a unique spin, start with a rosemary garlic seasoning then add lemon peel, marjoram, and basil. By making it yourself, you also get to customize the spice levels and quantities of each ingredient to suit your palette.