INTRODUCTION
Sticky Lemon Garlic Veggie Skewers are a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that turns simple vegetables into a glossy, irresistible meal or side. Tossed in a rich lemon-garlic glaze and cooked until tender with lightly caramelized edges, these skewers deliver the perfect balance of savory depth and bright citrus freshness. They are ideal for grilling season, oven roasting, or even indoor grill pans, making them a versatile option year-round. Whether served as a main for a plant-forward meal or as a colorful side dish, these skewers bring bold flavor with minimal effort.
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STICKY LEMON GARLIC VEGGIE SKEWERS – A BOLD, ZESTY, GLAZED VEGETABLE DISH
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 6 skewers
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Colorful veggie skewers glazed in a sticky lemon garlic sauce, roasted or grilled until caramelized and tender for a bold, crowd-pleasing vegan dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, cubed
- 1 cup zucchini, thickly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms
- 1 small red onion, chunked
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey alternative
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, soy sauce, maple syrup, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Thread vegetables evenly onto skewers.
- Brush skewers generously with the lemon garlic glaze.
- Arrange skewers on a lined baking sheet or place on grill.
- Roast for 18–22 minutes or grill for 10–12 minutes, turning and basting halfway, until sticky and lightly charred.
- Serve hot with extra glaze drizzled on top.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd skewers for even cooking.
- Add tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
- Great served over rice or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe is simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The sticky glaze clings beautifully to the vegetables, creating a satisfying texture without heaviness. It is naturally vegetarian, easy to customize, and works well for casual dinners, barbecues, or meal prep.
INGREDIENTS
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bell peppers
Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and soft texture when cooked.
Zucchini
Zucchini becomes tender while absorbing the lemon garlic glaze beautifully.
Red onion
Red onion adds mild sweetness and depth as it caramelizes.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms bring earthy richness and help balance the citrus notes.
Cherry tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes add bursts of juiciness and natural sweetness.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps coat the vegetables evenly and promotes caramelization.
Garlic
Garlic provides bold, savory flavor that defines the glaze.
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the oil.
Lemon zest
Lemon zest intensifies citrus aroma without added acidity.
Honey or maple syrup
This creates the sticky glaze and balances the garlic and lemon.
Soy sauce
Soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness to the glaze.
Salt
Salt enhances all the vegetable flavors.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and a clean finish before serving.
DIRECTIONS
Soak wooden skewers if using. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Chop vegetables into even-sized pieces and toss them thoroughly in the glaze. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating for color and balance. Grill or roast the skewers, turning occasionally and brushing with extra glaze, until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
SERVINGS AND TIMING
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 to 25 minutes.
STORAGE/REHEATING
Store leftover vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain texture.
VARIATIONS AND CUSTOMIZATIONS
Sticky Lemon Garlic Veggie Skewers are easy to adapt. Add pineapple for sweetness or tofu for protein. Use balsamic glaze instead of honey for a deeper flavor profile. Chili flakes or chili paste can be added for heat. These skewers also work well with asparagus, broccoli, or cauliflower. For a fully vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.

NUTRITION AND DIETARY INFO
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
EXPERT TIPS & CUSTOMIZATIONS
Cut vegetables evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Do not overcrowd the skewers to allow proper caramelization. Brush glaze during the final minutes of cooking to avoid burning.
FAQS
Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes, roast them at high heat, turning once for even browning.
Are these skewers vegan?
Yes, when made with maple syrup instead of honey.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the skewers up to one day in advance.
What vegetables work best?
Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes work very well.
Can I use metal skewers?
Yes, metal skewers work perfectly and do not require soaking.
Do these work on a grill pan?
Yes, they cook very well on a stovetop grill pan.
CONCLUSION
Sticky Lemon Garlic Veggie Skewers are a fresh, bold dish that proves vegetables can be just as exciting as any main course. With their glossy glaze, vibrant colors, and bright citrus flavor, they are a versatile recipe perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or outdoor cooking.
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