12 Vegan Dishes to Bring to a Backyard BBQ
Summer backyard gatherings need bold, crowd-pleasing dishes that make everyone reach for seconds. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting these twelve knock-out recipes that will steal the show at your next BBQ. From smoky pulled mushroom burgers to zesty Mexican street corn, these dishes bring the flavors and textures you crave at any outdoor feast.
Picture this: Your friends diving into a creamy buffalo dip, fighting over the last chickpea meatball, and marveling at the perfectly charred cauliflower steaks. The best part? These recipes work their magic on both longtime vegetable enthusiasts and curious newcomers. My neighbor Tom, a dedicated meat lover, couldn’t believe the pulled mushroom burger wasn’t the “real thing.”
Each recipe packs a punch with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings that’ll make your BBQ spread Instagram-worthy. The Mediterranean grazing board adds a sophisticated touch, while the sheet pan fajitas bring that sizzling restaurant drama right to your backyard. These dishes prove that backyard cooking goes way beyond the standard burger-and-hot-dog routine.
BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger
Move over, traditional BBQ! These pulled mushroom burgers pack a punch with their rich, smoky flavor and meaty texture. The secret? Shredded oyster mushrooms slathered in a tangy homemade BBQ sauce that’ll make your mouth water. Pop them between two buns, and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleasing sandwich that’ll steal the show at any cookout.
Serve these bad boys with crispy sweet potato wedges, crunchy coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob. Want to kick things up? Add a dollop of chipotle mayo or some pickled red onions for extra zing. Trust me, your guests will be begging for seconds!
Find the recipe here: BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger
Vegan Buffalo Chicken Dip
This zesty buffalo dip packs all the creamy, spicy goodness you’d expect from a party favorite! Shredded jackfruit mingles with a rich blend of cashews, hot sauce, and seasonings to create that perfect game-day texture. The best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, and it’ll have your guests begging for the recipe.
Serve this crowd-pleaser with celery sticks, carrot batons, or your favorite tortilla chips. For an extra kick, drizzle more hot sauce on top and sprinkle with fresh chives. It’s also fantastic stuffed into slider buns or spread on wrap sandwiches for a next-day lunch that’ll make your coworkers jealous.
Find the Recipe here: Vegan Buffalo Chicken Dip
Mediterranean Grazing Board
Picture yourself lounging in a sun-drenched Mediterranean courtyard while nibbling on colorful olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumber slices. This grazing board brings that laid-back coastal vibe right to your backyard party! Load it up with grilled artichokes, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs for an appetizer that’ll have everyone gathering around the table.
Serve this crowd-pleasing spread alongside warm pita triangles, crunchy breadsticks, or toasted baguette slices. Add some dried fruit like figs or apricots for a sweet contrast, and don’t forget the dips – hummus, baba ganoush, or muhammara will take this board from good to absolutely fantastic!
Find the Recipe here: Mediterranean Grazing Board
BBQ Chickpea Meatballs
These BBQ meatballs pack a protein punch with chickpeas, oats, and walnuts, creating a perfect blend of textures. A quick whirl in the food processor transforms simple pantry staples into golden-brown spheres of happiness. The homemade BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that’ll make your mouth water before you even take a bite.
Serve these crowd-pleasing meatballs on slider buns topped with crispy coleslaw, or skewer them with colorful bell peppers and pineapple chunks. They also shine as an appetizer with toothpicks and extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Your guests won’t stop at just one!
Find the Recipe here: BBQ Chickpea Meatballs
Coleslaw
Meet the creamiest, tangiest coleslaw that’ll have your BBQ guests begging for seconds! This crowd-pleaser combines shredded cabbage and carrots with a smooth, mayo-based dressing that packs a punch. A dash of apple cider vinegar and mustard adds that perfect zing, while celery seeds bring an unexpected crunch and flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
This classic side dish pairs beautifully with grilled mushroom burgers, jackfruit pulled “pork” sandwiches, or smoky tempeh ribs. Want to jazz it up? Toss in some diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet surprise that’ll make your coleslaw stand out at any summer gathering.
Find the Recipe here: Coleslaw
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs
Threading colorful bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers creates a rainbow of flavors ready for the grill. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs transforms these everyday veggies into smoky, charred perfection in just 15 minutes. The secret? Keep similar vegetables together on separate skewers so each one cooks at its ideal time.
These kabobs make fantastic sides for grilled portobello burgers or cauliflower steaks. Add a scoop of quinoa salad or grilled corn on the cob to round out your backyard feast. Want to kick things up? Drizzle with chimichurri sauce or serve alongside hummus for dipping.
Find the Recipe here: Grilled Vegetable Kabobs
Potato Casserole
Looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish? This golden, creamy potato casserole will make everyone at the BBQ ask for seconds! Picture layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich garlic sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and fresh herbs. The secret? A blend of cashews and vegetable broth creates an incredibly smooth sauce that’ll have your guests wondering about your secret ingredient.
Serve this hearty dish alongside grilled corn on the cob, colorful mixed salads, or smoky mushroom skewers. The casserole stays warm for hours, making it perfect for those long summer afternoons spent chatting and grazing in the backyard.
Find the Recipe here: Potato Casserole
Mexican Street Corn
Get ready to kick your corn game up a notch with this zesty Mexican Street Corn! Grilled corn slathered in creamy mayo and topped with chili powder, garlic, lime juice, and fresh cilantro creates an explosion of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance. The charred kernels add that perfect smoky touch that screams summer cookout.
Serve this crowd-pleasing side dish alongside grilled mushroom burgers, spicy jackfruit tacos, or your favorite BBQ classics. For an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle some extra lime juice and chili powder right before serving – trust me, your guests will beg for seconds!
Find the Recipe here: Mexican Street Corn
Sheet Pan Portobello Fajitas
You’ll win everyone over with these sizzling fajitas! The portobello mushrooms pack a meaty punch, while the colorful bell peppers and onions add that perfect southwestern flair. Just pop everything on a sheet pan, sprinkle with smoky spices, and let your oven do the magic. No fussy stovetop juggling required!
Serve these bad boys with warm tortillas, fresh guacamole, zesty salsa, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Want to kick it up a notch? Add some Mexican rice on the side, or throw together a quick corn salad. Your guests won’t even notice they’re loading up on veggies!
Find the Recipe here: Sheet Pan Portobello Fajitas
Butternut Squash Steaks
Want to wow your BBQ buddies? Throw these smoky, caramelized butternut squash slices on the grill! Just slice your squash into thick “steaks,” brush with olive oil, and season with garlic, thyme, and paprika. The magic happens when those grill marks appear, and the natural sugars start to caramelize – creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors.
These golden-brown beauties pair perfectly with grilled corn on the cob, a fresh arugula salad, or some herb-roasted potatoes. For an extra punch of flavor, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving. Your guests won’t believe how simple yet impressive this dish is!
Find the Recipe here: Butternut Squash Steaks
Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma
Picture this: tender roasted cauliflower, bell peppers, and chickpeas dancing with Middle Eastern spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric. This Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma brings all the bold flavors of street food right to your backyard party. The magic happens when these veggies caramelize in the oven, creating crispy edges and perfectly seasoned bites.
Wrap these aromatic roasted goodies in warm pita bread with a dollop of tahini sauce, fresh tomatoes, and crisp cucumber slices. Want to kick it up? Add some pickled red onions or a sprinkle of fresh mint. This crowd-pleaser works great as a build-your-own shawarma station where everyone can customize their perfect wrap.
Find the Recipe here: Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma
Cauliflower Steak
Meet the star of your next BBQ! Thick slices of cauliflower, seared until golden brown and drizzled with creamy peppercorn sauce, pack a punch that’ll make everyone at the party ask for seconds. The magic lies in the perfect combination of garlic, black peppercorns, and fresh herbs that create an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Pair these hearty steaks with roasted baby potatoes seasoned with rosemary or a fresh Mediterranean quinoa salad. Want to kick things up a notch? Add some grilled asparagus or caramelized Brussels sprouts on the side for extra wow factor.
Find the Recipe here: Cauliflower Steak
