Sliders with Grilled Vegetables

Name: Sliders with Grilled Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 mini burger buns; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 small eggplant, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Your choice of condiments (mayo, mustard, etc.)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making sliders with grilled vegetables for a quick and delicious meal that's bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh veggies, hearty bread, and delightful condiments creates a satisfying bite that is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize these sliders with your favorite toppings or sauces. With just a few minutes of prep and grilling, you can create a filling dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue with friends. Trust me, these sliders are bound to become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:55:06.018Z

When I first tried making these sliders with grilled vegetables, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they could be. The grilling process brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, making them incredibly flavorful. I particularly enjoy using zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, but feel free to mix in what you have on hand!

One crucial tip I learned is to brush the vegetables with olive oil before grilling; it not only helps in achieving grill marks but also enhances their taste. The sliders can be enhanced further with your favorite sauces, creating endless variations for everyone to enjoy.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh and vibrant flavors from grilled vegetables
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for gatherings or quick weeknight dinners

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When making sliders with grilled vegetables, selecting the right produce can elevate your dish. Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are excellent choices due to their high moisture content and ability to absorb flavors while grilling. Each vegetable contributes unique textures; the zucchini adds a slight crunch, the bell pepper offers sweetness, and the eggplant provides a creamy mouthfeel after grilling. If you’re looking for alternatives, try adding mushrooms or portobello caps for an earthy touch or even asparagus for a seasonal twist.

Be mindful of the sizes when slicing your vegetables. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/4 inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly on the grill, achieving that perfect balance between tenderness and a satisfying char. If they're too thick, they may take too long to cook, becoming tough and chewy, while too thin can lead to burnt pieces.

Perfecting Your Grill Technique

Grilling the vegetables properly is key to infusing them with flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C), which helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavors. Once your vegetables are on the grill, refrain from moving them too much; let them sear for about 5 minutes on each side. This not only deepens the flavor but also helps to maintain their structure. You'll know they’re ready when they exhibit nice char marks and become tender without losing all their juices.

For best results, consider using a grill basket or grilling mats if you’re concerned about smaller pieces falling through the grates. These tools can help retain the vegetables’ juices without losing any to the flames below. Alternatively, skewering pieces on soaked wooden skewers is another viable option, allowing for easy turning and even cooking.

Amazing Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of these sliders is their versatility, allowing for endless customization. For a Mediterranean spin, try adding feta cheese and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Alternatively, spice things up with a smear of harissa or a slice of fresh jalapeño for added heat. You can also swap out the mini burger buns for whole grain or gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy these delicious bites.

If you want to prepare ahead, grill the vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply reheat on the grill or in a pan when you’re ready to serve. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld even further. You’ll find that these sliders are not just a meal but a fantastic installation for versatile meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your flavorful sliders:

For the Sliders

4 mini burger buns
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 small eggplant, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Your choice of condiments (mayo, mustard, etc.)

Once you have everything ready, let's start grilling!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled vegetable sliders:

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Grill the Vegetables

Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks.

Assemble the Sliders

Once grilled, layer the vegetables on the bottom half of each burger bun. Add your favorite condiments, then close with the top half of the bun.

Your sliders are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add a slice of cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Garnish and Serving Suggestions

To take your sliders to the next level, consider adding a variety of garnishes that can enhance flavor and presentation. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a refreshing note, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of balsamic reduction provides an instant flavor boost. Serving with a side of sweet potato fries or a light salad can make the meal more exciting and satisfying.

Another fun idea is to create a slider bar for gatherings. Set out an array of toppings such as pickled onions, sliced avocados, or different sauces, allowing guests to customize their sliders as they see fit. This interactive dining experience encourages creativity and personal preference, making your barbecue or gathering memorable.

Nutrition and Dietary Considerations

These sliders are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the variety of vegetables. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, while peppers are excellent sources of antioxidants. This makes the sliders a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. You can also easily transform this recipe to be vegan by skipping traditional condiments that contain dairy or opting for plant-based alternatives.

For those needing to watch their carbohydrate intake, consider wrapping the slider fillings in large lettuce leaves instead of buns to create a delicious lettuce wrap. This modification retains the essence of the sliders while decreasing the overall carb count, making it a suitable option for low-carb or keto diets.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored easily for future meals. Keep the grilled vegetables and buns separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to three days. This way, you can assemble fresh sliders quickly throughout the week without losing texture or flavor.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to warm the vegetables gently. A quick sauté for 2-3 minutes pairs well with the buns toasted in the oven for a few minutes until golden. Avoid the microwave as it can make the buns soggy and lessen the enjoyable grilled taste of the vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables for the sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, asparagus, or onions.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you use vegan buns and condiments, this recipe is completely vegan.

→ How can I store leftover sliders?

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I grill these vegetables indoors?

Yes, if you have a stovetop grill pan, you can achieve similar results indoors!