Indulge in the flavors of summer with these mouthwatering vegan BBQ recipes perfect for grilling at your next backyard barbecue or outdoor gathering. From savory main dishes to refreshing sides, decadent desserts, and revitalizing drinks, this collection has got you covered for a memorable get-together. With an array of options, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you create unforgettable experiences with family and friends.
Vegan BBQ Ribs (Seitan) with Spicy BBQ Sauce
Indulge in a culinary delight that transcends dietary boundaries, as seitan coated in spicy sauce takes on the guise of mouthwatering BBQ ribs. Even the most dedicated meat-eaters will be won over by this cleverly crafted vegan alternative. To add an authentic Korean twist, try substituting traditional BBQ sauce with a version infused with Gochujang paste, its rich umami flavor elevating the dish to new heights.
BBQ Tofu Veggie Skewers
One of the most delightful ways to prepare tofu is by grilling it, and a simple yet effective approach involves threading well-seasoned extra firm tofu cubes onto skewers along with sturdy vegetables, which serve as natural separators to keep the tofu in place. To add a tangy twist, simply brush the grilled skewers with your preferred vegan BBQ sauce, allowing its rich flavors to meld with the tender tofu.
Vegan Grilled Summer Squash Sandwiches with Pesto
Transform your lunch game by combining the smoky sweetness of grilled summer vegetables with the tanginess of vegan pesto, all wrapped up in a crispy crusty roll. The key to this satisfying sandwich lies in the layers: start with a flavorful foundation of marinated veggies, add a rich and creamy spread of store-bought or homemade pesto, and top it all off with a crunchy roll that’s just begging to be devoured.
Grilled Tofu Pita Wraps
Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful pita wrap that’s as refreshing as a Mediterranean breeze. Marinated and grilled tofu is the star of this show, paired with an assortment of fresh and vibrant ingredients like minty goodness, crunchy onions, cooling cucumbers, and tangy vegan feta. This delightful combination will whisk you away to a sun-kissed Greek island on a sweltering summer day.
Easy Skillet BBQ Baked Beans
Ditch the processed ingredients found in traditional canned baked beans, like oils and refined sugars, and opt for a healthier alternative by making your own BBQ beans from scratch. The key to this recipe is using canned white beans that don’t require soaking, allowing you to prepare these delicious and nutritious beans quickly and easily.
Vegan Seitan Chicken
Indulge your guests with a BBQ seitan ‘chicken’ that’s so convincing, even self-proclaimed meat lovers won’t be able to tell the difference. The texture, flavor, and presentation are all on point, making it an excellent choice for gatherings where you want to cater to both vegans and non-vegans alike. With straightforward seasoning and mixing instructions, anyone can master this recipe and impress their partygoers with a culinary masterpiece that just happens to be cruelty-free.
Vegan Carrot Hot Dogs
Indulge in a plant-based twist on the quintessential summer treat by transforming carrots into a tender and juicy base. Grill them to perfection, then sandwich between buns with your go-to toppings like tangy relish and crunchy slaw for a vegan rendition of the classic hot dog that’s sure to satisfy.
Smoked Vegan BBQ Tofu Bowls
The indulgent world of vegan tofu bowls is elevated by the harmonious union of pineapple and BBQ sauce. For those short on time, pre-smoked tofu is an accessible option, allowing you to skip the step of smoking your own. Alternatively, experimenting with homemade smoked tofu can be a rewarding experience for those willing to invest a bit more time.
Vegan BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic summer treat by combining BBQ chickpeas with the sweetness of pineapple, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves and finished off with a creamy vegan ranch dressing. This innovative fusion of flavors not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nutritious plant-based option that’s perfect for a sunny day.
Vegan Pollo Asado
While a grill is often the go-to choice for BBQ enthusiasts, it’s not the only way to enjoy delicious grilled flavors. With a few simple substitutions, you can easily replicate the taste of BBQ without firing up the grill. Consider using your oven, air fryer, or stovetop to prepare a mouthwatering vegan pollo asado with crispy tofu and a blend of savory BBQ seasonings. This flavorful dish pairs perfectly with a side of fluffy rice, creamy beans, and fresh guacamole.
Vegan BBQ Sides
Creamy Corn Salad
One of the greatest things about this vegan BBQ recipe is its simplicity – it’s incredibly easy to prepare and cooks quickly. In fact, I find that it pairs perfectly with a variety of grilled main dishes, elevating their flavor without overpowering them. The best part? It’s surprisingly creamy and indulgent, making it a standout side dish.
Pearl Couscous Salad with Summer Veggies
When it comes to complementing your next BBQ, having a few dependable side dishes up your sleeve can make all the difference. A refreshing couscous salad with summer’s finest offerings is an excellent place to start. By combining fluffy couscous with the likes of basil leaves, cucumber slices, pitted olives, and juicy tomatoes, you’ll create a harmonious medley that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. The crowning glory, however, is the tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing, which brings all the flavors together in perfect balance.
Vegan Grilled Vegetables with Basil Vinaigrette
Savory flavors of the season come alive in this delectable grilled vegetable medley, where fresh summer squash, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cauliflower take center stage. The star of the show is a tangy and aromatic sweet basil and rice wine vinaigrette that adds a touch of elegance to each bite.
Green Bean Summer Salad
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing vegan and gluten-free salad, featuring an array of seasonal delights. Crunchy green beans, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and tender zucchini are perfectly balanced by the creamy texture of chickpeas, all tied together with a light and airy herb dressing.
Panzanella
In this sun-kissed summer salad, the sweetness of artichokes, olives’ brininess, and cherry tomatoes’ juiciness come together in perfect harmony with a refreshing vinaigrette dressing. For added texture, cubed baguette adds a satisfying crunch. For a plant-based twist, opt for vegan mozzarella or skip it altogether to keep the dish fully vegan.
Avocado Tomato Salad
Indulge in a vibrant and refreshing onion, tomato, and avocado salad, where the subtle nuances of peak-season produce take center stage. Use your go-to high-quality olive oil as the crowning glory, allowing the natural sweetness of each ingredient to meld together in perfect harmony.
Smoky Grilled Eggplant
There’s something about grilling vegetables that just elevates their flavor profile. For me, one of the top contenders for a great grilled veggie is undoubtedly eggplant. When seasoned properly, an eggplant steak has the ability to soak up the rich flavors of liquid smoke or the natural smokiness from your grill. In fact, even meat-lovers might find themselves won over by this recipe’s unique charm.
Smoky Grilled Balsamic Garlic Mushroom Skewers
The appeal of skewered vegetables lies not only in their flavor but also in their visual appeal, making them an ideal choice for parties. In this case, mushrooms marinated in a savory blend of garlic, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar before being grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both smoky and satisfying.
Summer Slaw
When it comes to slaw, you might think that without vegan mayonnaise, your dish is doomed. However, you’d be surprised at how easily you can substitute this key ingredient with a flavorful and healthy alternative. A combination of green and red cabbage, crunchy apples, and sweet carrots mixed with a light dressing made from tahini is not only delicious but also mayo-free.
Italian Pasta Salad
Pasta salad – a dish that’s universally loved! The key to this recipe’s success lies in its use of rotini noodles, which masterfully absorb the dressing and are elevated by the generous sprinkling of nutritional yeast that lends a cheesy flavor. Feel free to add your favorite cured and fresh fruits and veggies to create a colorful and nutritious masterpiece.
Vegan Grilled Mexican Street Corn
Indulge in the flavors of Mexico with this mouthwatering twist on a classic street food: grilled corn. The sweetness of fresh summer corn is perfectly balanced by a rich, dairy-free spread made from vegan mayonnaise and buttery goodness, expertly seasoned to delight your taste buds.
Pulled Spaghetti Squash Sliders
Transform your summer gatherings with a creative twist on a classic favorite. By baking spaghetti squash and smothering it in tangy BBQ sauce, you can create a mouthwatering ‘slider’ experience that’s surprisingly similar to its meat-based counterpart.
Vegan Macaroni Salad
Innovative variations of beloved recipes often stem from clever substitutions and thoughtful combinations. Such is the case with this modern macaroni salad recipe, which effortlessly recreates the nostalgic charm of its traditional counterpart by combining elbow pasta, vegan mayo, and a delightful medley of crunchy vegetables. A touch of sweetness is added through the judicious use of maple syrup. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to remain fresh and flavorful even when prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep or potlucks.
Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini
When it comes to vegan summer gatherings, zucchini proves itself to be a grill-friendly superstar. This versatile vegetable takes on the grilling process with ease, making it the perfect side dish for your next outdoor bash. The aromatic combination of garlic and lemon in the marinade infuses an extra layer of brightness and zest, elevating the dish to a whole new level.
Vegan BBQ Black Eyed Pea Collard Rolls
In the midst of sizzling summer celebrations, Collard Greens take center stage with a flavorful twist. The humble green leaves are packed with a rich filling comprising earthy black-eyed peas and savory mushrooms. To elevate its profile even further, a tangy BBQ sauce coating adds an unexpected yet delightful dimension to this refreshing summer delight.
Fresh Corn, Tomato, Avocado and Basil Salad
In this vibrant summer salad, an array of fresh vegetables such as crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and succulent corn provide a flavorful base. The addition of fragrant basil and rich, creamy avocado adds depth and a touch of sweetness to each bite.
BBQ Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri
Ditch the meat and bring a game-changing twist to your vegan BBQs – grill up some mouthwatering cauliflower steaks instead! These tender, flavorful bites are not only a crowd-pleaser but also cater to a variety of dietary needs, making them an ideal addition to any menu. And let’s not forget about the show-stopping visual appeal – who wouldn’t want a plate full of succulent, char-grilled cauliflower smothered in zesty chimichurri? It’s a match made in heaven!
Cheesy Zucchini Roll Ups
Imagine vibrant, flavorful zucchini roll-ups filled with a creamy cashew ricotta mixture. Served alongside a rich, tangy red sauce – whether homemade or store-bought – these bite-sized delights are sure to bring a pop of color and joy to any gathering. The perfect dish for entertaining, this recipe is both impressive and easy to prepare.
Corn Jalapeno Fritters
In a harmonious union, the sweetness of sweet corn and the spiciness of jalapeños come together to create a match made in heaven. This perfect pairing is elevated to new heights when transformed into vegan and gluten-free fritters, making it an ideal addition to your summer gathering.
Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens
In a departure from traditional recipes that rely on bacon or smoked pork, this vegan collard green recipe harnesses the rich flavor of smoked paprika to evoke the essence of classic Southern cuisine. This subtle yet impactful substitution allows for a bold and savory taste experience that’s free from animal products.
Vegan BBQ Ranch Dressing
For those seeking a protein-packed punch, look no further than this innovative vegan ranch recipe. Combining the creamy richness of non-dairy milk with the tangy zip of barbecue sauce, this cashew-based dressing offers a game-changing twist on traditional ranch flavors. But that’s not all – for a nut-free alternative, simply swap out the cashews for hemp or sunflower seeds and reap the rewards of a bold, oil-free flavor profile.
Corn, Avocado, and Tomato Salad
The sweetest summer days are made even more unforgettable when a simple yet vibrant dish like this corn, tomato, and avocado salad takes center stage. The secret to its irresistible charm lies in the way the grilled corn adds a smoky depth that’s expertly balanced by the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro.
Crispy Barbecue Spiced Brussels Sprouts
Transforming Brussels Sprouts from Humdrum to Hip: Ditch the Ordinary and Go Bold with a Crunchy, Smoky Twist! When it comes to elevating this oft-maligned veggie, think outside the box (or in this case, the baking sheet). By rubbing the sprouts with a bold BBQ spice mix and then baking them to a satisfying crisp, you’ll create a side dish that’s sure to impress at any meal or party. The key is to strike a balance between the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts and the deep, smoky flavor of the spice blend. Trust us, this game-changing approach will make even the most skeptical of eaters converts.
Vegan Potato Salad with Dijon
Summer barbecues call for a refreshing side dish that’s just as satisfying as the main event. In this case, we’re elevating humble peas and baby potatoes with fresh herbs and a drizzle of Dijon vinaigrette to create a creamy, vegan potato salad that’s perfect for pairing with any BBQ favorite.
Summer Pesto Grilled Vegetables with Penne
When it comes to throwing a party, pasta is often a crowd-pleasing choice, and for good reason – it’s easy to make in large quantities and can be paired with a variety of flavorful accompaniments. One tasty combination is pairing penne or your favorite type of pasta with grilled summer vegetables like asparagus and zucchini, all smothered in a delicious vegan pesto. The key to making this dish shine is using fresh, high-quality ingredients that really bring out the natural flavors of each component.
Grilled Corn, Poblano and Potato Salad
Incorporating the flavors of a summer evening, this salad brings together the natural sweetness of baked or grilled potatoes, the crunch of corn, and the creaminess of vegan mayo, all tied together with the subtle heat of mild poblano peppers. For added convenience, consider using BBQ-blend potatoes for a shortcut to this delightful meal.
Vegan Summer Orzo Veggie Salad
The allure of orzo pasta lies in its delicate, slippery texture, making it an ideal canvas for showcasing the vibrant flavors of pan-grilled summer vegetables. When paired with marinated tofu bites, this combination creates a harmonious blend of nutrients and flavors that can be enjoyed as either a satisfying side dish or a filling entrée option.
Vegan BBQ Desserts
Mango Lime Popsicles
Savoring the sweetest moments of a summer BBQ, popsicles take center stage. This refreshing dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both kids and adults alike. To create this delightful treat, combine pureed mango with coconut milk, a squeeze of lime juice, and a hint of agave nectar, resulting in a dairy-free frozen delight that’s sure to satisfy the sweet tooth of everyone at your gathering.
Summer Fruit Salad
The sweetest indulgence of summer arrives in a fruit salad that’s as vibrant as it is refreshing. A symphony of flavors unfolds as peaches, watermelon, and berries mingle together, elevated by the subtle charm of rose water-infused dressing and finished with a sprig of fresh mint leaves.
Skillet S’mores Dip
Indulge in the sweet delight of s’mores any time of the year by baking graham crackers, dairy-free chocolate, and vegan marshmallows in a skillet. This innovative twist on the classic campfire treat allows you to enjoy the combination of crunchy, gooey, and sweet flavors even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Pair your skillet s’mores with fresh summer fruit for a delightful snack or dessert that’s perfect for hot days or cozy nights in.
Almond Grilled Peaches & Cream
In a sweet and savory fusion, peaches brushed with the rich flavors of maple syrup and almond extract are transformed into a mouthwatering treat through the process of grilling. This humble dessert is elevated by its pairing with creamy vegan vanilla ice cream, demonstrating that even the simplest of sweets can be incredibly indulgent.
Strawberry Cream Pie
As the mercury rises, the last thing most of us want to do is spend time in a sweltering kitchen baking away. That’s why this no-bake vegan strawberry cream pie recipe is a game-changer for hot summer days. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s the perfect way to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth. And let’s not forget the best part – it’s topped with an abundance of fresh summer berries, adding natural sweetness and a pop of color to this indulgent dessert.
Watermelon Frosé
Imagine combining the sweetness of fresh watermelon with the refreshing essence of rosé, all wrapped up in a vibrant pink package. That’s exactly what happens when you freeze watermelon and rosé ice cubes overnight, then blend them together into a stunning frozen drink that’s sure to be a hit on any sweltering summer day.
4th Of July Granola Parfaits
Imagine the quintessential summer holiday party dessert: a vibrant, Instagram-worthy treat that’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Enter the red, white, and blue parfait, crafted with whipped coconut cream, succulent strawberries, juicy blueberries, and a satisfying crunch from sweet granola. This show-stopping dessert is sure to be the star of your gathering, delighting both kids and adults alike.
Blueberry Pie
The secret to achieving a flaky, tender crust lies in the use of vegan butter – a game-changer for pie enthusiasts. Moreover, the other essential ingredients are readily available pantry staples, allowing you to whip up this delightful dessert at a moment’s notice whenever fresh blueberries come into season.
Banana Pudding
In the heart of the Southern United States, banana pudding reigns supreme as a beloved dessert staple. This rich treat is composed of harmonious layers: tender bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream – all delightfully veganized for modern palates to indulge in.
S’mores Pie
Transforming the classic campfire treat, S’mores, into a vegan masterpiece requires some creative substitutions. The Baking Fairy’s innovative recipe replaces traditional chocolate with a rich and creamy filling made from tofu, while the meringue topping is crafted from whipped aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. This unique combination yields a delightful dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Banana Split Bites
Indulge in a sweet and satisfying treat that’s as refreshing as it is easy to eat. By dipping chunks of fruit into melted chocolate and nuts, you can create a delightful finger food that’s perfect for parties or any social gathering. This treat offers all the flavors of a classic banana split, but in a fun and portable format – think mini banana splits on a stick!
Grilled Pineapple with Coconut-Whipped Cream
Imagine a kitchen that defies gravity, where culinary creativity knows no bounds. In this whimsical space, the sweet aroma of grilled fresh pineapple wafts through the air, tantalizing taste buds and beckoning you to indulge in a delightful vegan dessert experience. The perfect fusion of flavors and textures is achieved by serving the caramelized fruit with a dollop of creamy coconut whipped cream. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or seeking to elevate a mundane dinner into something extraordinary, this delectable treat is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Raw Vegan Magnum with Salted Caramel
Dive into the world of creamy indulgence with this scrumptious raw vegan recipe, expertly recreating the iconic Magnum ice cream bars. A velvety coconut cream and cashew filling are the perfect base for the rich, caramel-like sauce crafted from medjool dates, while a homemade chocolate shell adds an extra layer of decadence to each bite.
Creamy Coconut Mojito Ice Pops
In a creative spin on the classic mojito, the traditional combination of rum, fresh mint, and lime juice gets a tropical twist by being blended with sweetened coconut milk. The mixture is then frozen into popsicles, perfect for serving at your next outdoor gathering or party.
Peach Cobbler
A quintessential summer delight, peach cobbler gets a refreshing makeover by substituting traditional ingredients with vegan and gluten-free alternatives. Almond and tapioca flours take center stage in this reimagined dessert, which is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. When served with dairy-free ice cream, the combination is nothing short of mouth-wateringly divine.
4th of July Fruit Salad
On the 4th of July, celebrate Independence Day in a deliciously healthy way by combining vibrant blueberries, plump cherries, and juicy melons with a sweet and creamy coconut whipped cream. To take it up a notch, use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out fun shapes from your favorite fruits, adding an extra burst of patriotic flair to this colorful and refreshing fruit salad.
Vegan BBQ Drinks
Strawberry Lemonade
The sweet and tangy combination of lemonade and fresh strawberries creates a sophisticated drink perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering, yet remains revitalizingly simple enough to quench your thirst on a whim.
Orange & Mint Lemonade
Indulge your love for lemonade by giving it a creative spin! When you combine the zest of three juicy oranges with the tanginess of lemon, you’ll discover a harmonious balance of citrus flavors. The refreshing essence of mint takes this classic drink to new heights, making it an ideal choice for warm weather and outdoor gatherings.
Pineapple Coolers
Get ready to blend up a tropical treat with the help of your blender and a splash of rum! In this refreshing concoction, coconut milk adds a rich creaminess, while chilled pineapple chunks provide a cooling twist. For an even cooler experience, feel free to freeze the mixture for a frozen drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Shirley Temple Party Punch
The Shirley Temple mocktail is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. Its well-balanced blend of flavors and refreshing quality make it an ideal choice for both kids and adults alike. A key component that sets it apart from other mocktails is the inclusion of maraschino cherries, which add a sweet and tangy dimension to the drink. With its familiar taste and appealing appearance, it’s no wonder why this classic mocktail remains a staple at many gatherings and celebrations.
Cherry Lime Mojito
Infusing the classic mojito recipe with fresh cherries takes the refreshing cocktail to new heights, imparting a tangy, fruity flavor and a stunning crimson hue. The sweet-tartness of the cherries perfectly complements the lime’s brightness and the rum’s warmth, resulting in a unique and alluring twist on the original.
Raspberry Coconut Ice Cream Floats
As summer days reach their peak, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing ice cream float. The simplicity of this raspberry and vanilla combination is deceptive – it only takes 5 ingredients and a mere minute to prepare. The perfect treat to savor as you take in the warm weather.
Homemade Iced Peach Tea
Sipping on refreshing sweet iced tea is a quintessential summer experience, and the addition of sugar and peach juice takes it to a whole new level of delightfulness. Imagine savoring each sip on a sweltering day when juicy peaches are at their ripest – pure bliss!
Cantaloupe Agua Fresca
Quenching thirst and satisfying palates, this revitalizing beverage is a showstopper at any gathering. Simply combine chunky cantaloupe puree with water and squeeze in some fresh lime juice, then sweeten to taste for a refreshing drink that’s as healthy as it is impressive.
Blueberry Vodka Lemonade
Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors as we elevate the humble BBQ cocktail to new heights. Imagine a refreshing concoction that combines the sweetness of homemade blueberry simple syrup with the tanginess of lemon juice, all while packing a subtle punch from vodka. Served over ice and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint, this drink is sure to quench your thirst on even the hottest summer days.
Watermelon Peach Smoothie
As the warmth of summer sets in, our taste buds crave refreshing treats that align with the season’s light and fruity vibes. A smoothie crafted with refrigerated coconut milk, paired with sweet summer fruits like peaches and watermelons, is an ideal indulgence that requires no added sugar. The combination creates a delightful harmony that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. And as we fire up the grill for some vegan BBQ fun, we’d love to hear about your go-to recipes! Share your favorite vegan BBQ creations in the comments below!
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of summer with these mouth-watering vegan BBQ recipes, perfect for a veggie barbecue that’s sure to impress your friends and family. From savory main dishes to refreshing sides, decadent desserts, and thirst-quenching drinks, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, these delicious plant-based creations are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.