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Looking for the best vegetarian BBQ recipes? You've come to the right place. Whether you're hosting a fully vegetarian barbecue or simply want more meat-free options alongside the burgers and steaks, having a variety of flavourful dishes ensures there's something for everyone around the table.
A great vegetarian barbecue goes beyond grilled vegetables. Think hearty bean burgers, satisfying sandwiches, fresh pasta and grain salads, seasonal sides, colourful appetisers, and desserts that make the most of summer produce. By combining protein-rich mains with fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, herbs, and healthy fats, it's easy to build a BBQ menu that's both nourishing and incredibly satisfying.
In this collection, we've rounded up our favourite vegetarian BBQ recipes for every part of your meal. You'll find easy recipes to grill, make-ahead salads for entertaining, shareable side dishes, and sweet summer treats that are perfect for backyard cookouts, cottage weekends, family gatherings, and potlucks alike.
Tina Gravalos
This grilled halloumi, corn and nectarine salad captures everything that's great about summer cooking. Sweet, juicy nectarines pair beautifully with smoky grilled corn and salty halloumi cheese, while a fresh basil dressing ties every bite together. It's a colourful vegetarian BBQ side that feels substantial enough to enjoy as a light meal, especially on warm evenings. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled veggie burgers, adding it to a picnic spread or bringing it to a potluck, this fresh summer salad is guaranteed to stand out on the table.
Megan Horsley
A classic caprese gets a hearty upgrade with protein-rich black lentils. Fresh tomatoes, creamy bocconcini and fragrant basil deliver the familiar Italian flavours you love, while lentils add fibre and staying power to make this salad satisfying enough for lunch or dinner. Because it comes together in just minutes, it's an excellent make-ahead recipe for barbecues, picnics and busy weeknights. If you're looking for a vegetarian BBQ side that's fresh, filling and packed with wholesome ingredients, this one deserves a spot on your menu.
Fran Allen
If you've never grilled cabbage before, this recipe will change your mind. Charring the wedges brings out their natural sweetness while adding smoky flavour that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy miso tahini dressing. Finished with sesame seeds, green onions and optional chili flakes, every bite is packed with texture and savoury depth. It's an easy vegetarian side that feels a little unexpected, making it perfect for entertaining or adding something new to your next backyard barbecue without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques.
Megan Horsley
This hearty bean salad proves that make-ahead dishes can still be the highlight of the meal. Navy beans, chickpeas and quinoa provide plenty of plant-based protein and fibre, while fresh vegetables, herbs and feta keep every bite bright and refreshing. In fact, the flavours continue to develop as the salad chills, making it an ideal choice for meal prep, summer barbecues and potlucks. Serve it as a satisfying vegetarian lunch or alongside grilled favourites for a colourful, nutrient-packed addition to your BBQ spread.
Jaclyn Irwin
If you're a dill pickle fan, this creamy coleslaw deserves a place at every summer barbecue. Crisp cabbage, shredded carrots and crunchy pickles are tossed in a tangy Greek yogurt dressing flavoured with fresh dill and ranch seasoning for a lighter twist on a classic side. It's refreshing, full of crunch and pairs beautifully with veggie burgers, jackfruit sandwiches or grilled vegetables. Since it tastes even better after a little time in the fridge, it's also an excellent make-ahead recipe for entertaining.
Jaclyn Irwin
These fully loaded cauliflower nachos are proof that comfort food can still be packed with vegetables. Roasted cauliflower replaces some of the traditional tortilla chips, while a creamy dairy-free queso, fresh guacamole, salsa and jalapeños create layers of bold flavour. They're perfect as a vegetarian BBQ appetiser, game-day snack or casual dinner when you're craving something fun to share. Even meat lovers will appreciate how satisfying these nachos are, thanks to the combination of smoky spices, creamy toppings and crispy textures.
Megan Horsley
If your garden is overflowing with tomatoes, this sweet and savoury tomato and chive jam is a delicious way to put them to good use. Maple syrup, lemon juice and warm spices create a rich spread that's equally at home on burgers, sandwiches, charcuterie boards or alongside grilled vegetables. It's a simple condiment that instantly elevates everyday meals while making thoughtful homemade gifts during tomato season. Keep a jar in the fridge and you'll find yourself reaching for it all summer long.
Jaclyn Irwin
Fresh corn is a summer staple, but this recipe takes it to the next level. A smoky chipotle compound butter infused with lime zest, cilantro and paprika melts into every kernel, creating the perfect balance of heat, richness and brightness. Whether you're serving it alongside veggie burgers, grilled halloumi or your favourite barbecue dishes, it's an easy side that's always a crowd favourite. Make extra butter while you're at it—it also tastes incredible on roasted vegetables, potatoes and fresh bread.
Jaclyn Irwin
Nothing says summer quite like ripe peaches, and this fresh salad celebrates them beautifully. Sweet peaches are tossed with red onion, serrano pepper, mint and Thai basil before being finished with a simple lime and honey dressing for the perfect balance of sweet, spicy and tangy flavours. It's a refreshing side dish that pairs effortlessly with grilled mains while showcasing peak-season produce. Quick to prepare and bursting with colour, this salad brings a bright, unexpected addition to any summer barbecue or picnic.
Megan Horsley
Swap your traditional Caesar salad for this grilled version that's full of smoky flavour and crisp texture. Briefly grilling the romaine creates beautiful char marks while keeping the lettuce fresh and crunchy. It's topped with a creamy vegan Caesar dressing made from cashews, capers and nutritional yeast before being finished with homemade grilled sourdough croutons. The result is a restaurant-worthy salad that's surprisingly simple to make and pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, burgers or sandwiches at your next backyard barbecue.
Megan Horsley
A great veggie burger should be hearty, flavourful and hold together beautifully on the grill or in the oven, and this smoky black bean burger delivers on all three. Black beans, oats and warming spices create a satisfying patty with a deliciously meaty texture, while smoked paprika and liquid smoke bring classic barbecue flavour without the meat. Rich in fibre and plant-based protein, these burgers are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep or summer cookouts. Pile them high with your favourite toppings and you'll have a vegetarian burger everyone will happily reach for.
Jaclyn Irwin
This fresh twist on a classic caprese salad swaps mozzarella for golden, pan-seared or grilled halloumi, creating a dish that's packed with savoury flavour and satisfying texture. Juicy heirloom tomatoes, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh basil and pesto provide the perfect backdrop for the salty cheese, making this an easy summer side that's ready in just minutes. It's an excellent addition to any vegetarian BBQ menu and pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, burgers or fresh crusty bread when tomatoes are at their seasonal best.
Megan Horsley
Your barbecue isn't just for savoury dishes. This grilled peach, apricot and raspberry crisp transforms seasonal fruit into a warm, bubbling dessert with a golden oat topping that's crisp on the outside and tender underneath. Finished with homemade whipped coconut cream, it's an impressive yet approachable dessert that's perfect for summer entertaining. Cooking the crisp on the barbecue frees up oven space indoors while adding a subtle smoky note that complements the sweet fruit beautifully. It's the perfect way to end any backyard cookout.
Tina Gravalos
These BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders are one of the easiest ways to introduce more plant-based meals without sacrificing bold barbecue flavour. Young jackfruit shreds into a texture that's remarkably similar to pulled pork before soaking up a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce. Finished with crunchy homemade slaw and dill pickles, every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savoury and fresh flavours. They're ideal for summer cookouts, casual entertaining or meal prep, and they're guaranteed to impress vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
Tina Gravalos
These colourful grilled halloumi and veggie skewers are proof that simple ingredients can create an impressive summer side. Cubes of halloumi become beautifully golden on the grill while radishes, shallots and marinated artichokes develop a lightly smoky flavour. A vibrant homemade dill pesto ties everything together, adding freshness to every bite. Whether you're serving them alongside veggie burgers or building a completely vegetarian barbecue menu, these skewers are easy to prepare, packed with flavour and guaranteed to brighten any outdoor table.
Megan Horsley
Loaded with grilled portobello mushrooms, tender asparagus and a creamy sun-dried tomato aioli, these wraps make a satisfying vegetarian meal that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The mushrooms provide a hearty, meaty texture while asparagus, kale and micro-greens add freshness and plenty of colour. They're quick enough for busy weekdays but impressive enough to serve at casual outdoor gatherings. If you're looking for a meat-free meal that's filling, nutritious and packed with smoky grilled flavour, this wrap is an excellent choice.
Jaclyn Irwin
Roasting transforms fresh artichokes into a tender, flavourful side that's well worth the little bit of prep work. As they cook, the garlic becomes soft and sweet before being blended into a simple lemon aioli that's perfect for dipping each leaf. Whether you're serving them as an appetiser or alongside your favourite grilled dishes, roasted artichokes bring something a little different to the table. They're a fun, interactive dish that encourages everyone to slow down, share and savour the meal together.
Tina Gravalos
Portobello mushrooms make an excellent stand-in for steak thanks to their rich, savoury flavour and satisfyingly meaty texture. Grilled alongside asparagus, onions and juicy tomatoes before being served over fresh greens, this colourful dish is light yet filling enough to enjoy as a main course. A simple drizzle of olive oil and lime juice lets the vegetables shine without overpowering their natural flavours. It's a fantastic vegetarian barbecue recipe that highlights just how satisfying grilled vegetables can be on their own.
Kelsey Russell-Murray
These smoky lentil sloppy Joes deliver everything you love about the classic sandwich while adding plenty of fibre and plant-based protein. Lentils simmer in a rich barbecue and tomato sauce with onions, peppers and warming spices to create a filling that's hearty, satisfying and wonderfully messy. They're made with simple pantry ingredients, making them ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep or feeding a crowd at your next barbecue. Serve them on toasted buns with crunchy coleslaw and pickles for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
Jaclyn Irwin
No summer gathering is complete without a great guacamole, and this version delivers just the right amount of heat. Creamy avocados are mashed with fresh lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro and a touch of chili flakes for a dip that's fresh, vibrant and packed with flavour. Serve it with tortilla chips, spoon it onto veggie burgers or sliders, or use it as a topping for tacos and grain bowls. Ready in just five minutes, it's one of those simple recipes you'll find yourself making all summer long.
Tina Gravalos
Traditional Greek village salad proves that you don't need lettuce to make an incredible summer salad. Chunks of ripe tomato, crisp cucumber, red onion and briny Kalamata olives are tossed with oregano and olive oil before being topped with a generous block of feta cheese. Every bite is fresh, simple and full of Mediterranean flavour. This easy side pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, halloumi or burgers, making it an excellent addition to barbecues, picnics and warm-weather dinners when tomatoes are at their peak.
Tina Gravalos
Leeks don't often get the spotlight at a barbecue, but this recipe may change that. Grilling softens their naturally sweet flavour while creating delicious charred edges that pair perfectly with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. With only a handful of ingredients, this side dish lets fresh seasonal produce shine without requiring much preparation. Serve grilled leeks alongside burgers, grilled mushrooms or halloumi for a simple vegetable side that feels elegant enough for entertaining but easy enough for weeknight dinners.
Jaclyn Irwin
Sweet strawberries and juicy pineapple combine with fresh herbs, lime and just enough serrano pepper to create a salsa that's bright, refreshing and packed with summer flavour. It's delicious served with tortilla chips, but it also works beautifully spooned over grilled halloumi, veggie burgers or barbecue sandwiches for an unexpected burst of freshness. Ready in minutes and filled with colourful seasonal fruit, this easy appetizer is a fantastic way to add something a little different to your next backyard barbecue or picnic spread.
Megan Horsley
Made with a protein-rich chickpea flour base, this Mediterranean-inspired flatbread is as versatile as it is delicious. It's topped with marinated artichokes, crumbled feta, tomatoes, olives and fresh basil before being finished with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for the perfect balance of savoury and tangy flavours. Serve it as an appetizer, slice it into smaller portions for entertaining or pair it with a fresh salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal. It's an easy recipe that looks impressive without requiring complicated techniques.
Tina Gravalos
This colourful tortellini salad is a welcome change from traditional pasta salads. Cheese-filled tortellini is tossed with crisp vegetables, feta, fresh parsley and a light olive oil vinaigrette to create a side that's both hearty and refreshing. It's easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for potlucks, picnics and backyard barbecues where convenience matters. Packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavours and plenty of fresh vegetables, it's a crowd-pleasing dish that pairs beautifully with grilled mains or stands alone as a simple summer lunch.
Megan Horsley
If you're looking for a vegetarian burger that's genuinely filling, this high-protein mushroom hemp burger is an excellent choice. Brown rice, mushrooms, hemp hearts, almonds and flax combine to create a hearty patty that's rich in texture and packed with plant-based protein. Finished with a spicy sambal aioli, these burgers offer bold flavour in every bite while making a satisfying alternative to traditional burgers. They're ideal for summer cookouts, meal prep or anyone wanting to add more protein-rich vegetarian meals to their menu.
Jaclyn Irwin
Every great barbecue needs a potato salad, and this creamy vegan version deserves a place on your summer table. Instead of mayonnaise, soaked cashews are blended with fresh dill, lemon, Dijon mustard and jalapeño to create a smooth, flavour-packed dressing that coats tender baby potatoes beautifully. Crisp celery and red onion add plenty of crunch, while fresh herbs brighten every bite. It's an easy make-ahead side that's just as satisfying as the classic version while offering a fresh plant-based twist.
Megan Horsley
Skip the sugary sports drinks and cool down with this naturally hydrating frozen treat instead. Made with watermelon, lime, maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt, this refreshing granita provides naturally occurring electrolytes and is perfect for hot summer days after time in the sun or an active afternoon outdoors. Ready in just minutes with a blender, it's a simple recipe that feels like dessert while helping you stay hydrated. Serve it as a cooling afternoon snack, a light dessert or a refreshing addition to your next backyard barbecue.
Julia Gibson
Celebrate strawberry and rhubarb season with this wholesome take on a classic fruit crumble. Sweet strawberries balance the tart rhubarb beautifully, while a crisp oat flour and walnut topping adds plenty of texture without relying on refined sugar. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, honey and coconut sugar, this gluten-free dessert is comforting enough for family dinners yet special enough for summer entertaining. Serve it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert that's guaranteed to disappear quickly at your next barbecue or potluck.
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