18 Plant-Based Grill Recipes from Around the World

Fire up those grills! I’ve scoured the globe to bring you 18 mouthwatering recipes that’ll make your backyard barbecue the talk of the neighborhood. From smoky Mexican street corn dripping with lime-kissed sauce to crispy mushroom tacos that’ll have you questioning everything you knew about grilling, these dishes pack serious flavor without breaking tradition.

Did you know that grilling dates back over 500,000 years? Our ancestors might not have had teriyaki oyster mushrooms or butternut squash steaks, but they understood the magic that happens when food meets flame. These recipes honor that ancient cooking method while adding modern twists – think Mediterranean eggplant with za’atar or sheet pan shawarma that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Jerusalem.

Each recipe here tells a story – from the chickpea meatballs inspired by Italian street food to the chimichurri-topped tofu that channels Argentina’s grilling traditions. I’ve tested every single one (tough job, right?), and my neighbors have become very willing taste-testers. The aromas alone will make your mouth water and might just start a friendly competition over the garden fence.

BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger

Want to make your summer BBQ extra special? Shredded oyster mushrooms create the perfect meat-like texture when cooked with smoky BBQ sauce and spices. The secret lies in hand-pulling each mushroom into thin strands before marinating them in a blend of paprika, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce. A quick sear on the grill adds that irresistible charred finish.

Stack your pulled mushroom high on a toasted brioche bun with crunchy coleslaw and pickled red onions. Add some sweet potato fries on the side, or keep it classic with corn on the cob slathered in herb butter. For an extra kick, drizzle some chipotle mayo or top with jalapeños.

Find the Recipe here: BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger

Butternut Squash Steaks

Hey, want to turn a humble butternut squash into something extraordinary? Just slice it into thick “steaks,” brush with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Pop these beauties on the grill for 5-7 minutes per side until those gorgeous grill marks appear and the squash becomes tender and caramelized.

These golden-brown steaks make a fantastic main dish paired with grilled corn on the cob, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or roasted potatoes. For an extra kick, drizzle some chimichurri sauce or balsamic glaze on top – trust me, it takes these smoky, sweet steaks to a whole new dimension!

Find the Recipe here: Butternut Squash Steaks

Cauliflower Steak

Who knew cauliflower could be this fancy? Cut into thick slabs and pan-seared until golden brown, these cauliflower steaks transform the humble vegetable into a showstopping main dish. The real magic happens with the creamy peppercorn sauce – a rich blend of cashews, garlic, and whole peppercorns that adds just the right kick.

Make it a complete meal by serving these steaks alongside roasted baby potatoes with rosemary or a wild rice pilaf. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing would add a fresh, peppery contrast to complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

Find the Recipe here: Cauliflower Steak

Tofu Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Want to add some South American flair to your dinner? This tofu steak brings a bold punch with its smoky marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic. The real star here is the vibrant chimichurri sauce – a zesty blend of fresh parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar that’ll make your mouth dance with joy.

Throw these steaks on the grill for those perfect char marks, and serve them alongside grilled corn on the cob or roasted sweet potatoes. A side of crispy quinoa or brown rice will soak up all that amazing chimichurri goodness. Trust me, this dish will become your new weeknight favorite!

Find the Recipe here: Tofu Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant

Picture this: tender eggplant slices sizzling on your grill, drizzled with garlic-infused olive oil and sprinkled with Mediterranean herbs. This smoky, charred delight transforms the humble eggplant into a show-stopping dish that’ll make you forget all about those bland, mushy versions you’ve had before.

Serve these golden-brown beauties alongside fluffy quinoa, crispy pita bread, or toss them into a hearty Greek salad. Want to kick things up? Add a dollop of creamy hummus or tzatziki on top. The possibilities are endless with this Mediterranean marvel!

Find the Recipe here: Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant

Teriyaki Oyster Mushroom Steak with Bok Choy

Want an Asian-inspired dish that’ll make your mouth water? These meaty oyster mushrooms get a sweet and savory makeover with a homemade teriyaki sauce that’ll have you licking your fingers. The mushrooms turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside – pure magic on a plate!

Pair this stunner with steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that gorgeous sauce, or go fancy with coconut rice. Add some quick-pickled cucumbers on the side for extra zing, and you’ve got yourself a dinner worthy of any food magazine cover.

Find the Recipe here: Teriyaki Oyster Mushroom Steak with Bok Choy

Grilled Vegetable Napoleon

You’ll want to stack these gorgeous grilled veggies like a tower of cards! Picture layers of tender eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, all smoky from the grill and dressed in a bright balsamic glaze. Add creamy cashew ricotta between each layer, and you’ve got yourself a showstopping centerpiece that’ll make everyone at the table reach for their phones to snap a pic.

Serve this Mediterranean-inspired stack alongside a fresh arugula salad with pine nuts and cherry tomatoes. A side of crusty garlic bread wouldn’t hurt either – perfect for soaking up any extra balsamic glaze that drips down those beautiful layers.

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Vegetable Napoleon

Crispy Oyster Mushroom Tacos

You haven’t lived until you’ve tried these oyster mushroom tacos! The mushrooms get incredibly crispy in the pan, creating that perfect meaty texture that’ll make your mouth water. A quick marinade in paprika, garlic, and cumin transforms these fungi into a flavorful filling that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Load up your tacos with fresh toppings like crunchy red cabbage slaw, creamy avocado, zesty lime, and cilantro. Want to kick things up? Add some pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle sauce. Pair these bad boys with Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete fiesta.

Find the Recipe here: Crispy Oyster Mushroom Tacos

Portobello Mushroom Burger

Meet your new favorite sandwich! These juicy portobello mushrooms pack a meaty punch with their rich, umami flavor. Quick marinade in balsamic vinegar and olive oil transforms these humble fungi into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Top it with caramelized onions, fresh tomatoes, and crisp lettuce for an unforgettable burger experience.

Serve these beauties with sweet potato fries dusted with smoked paprika, or keep it light with a crunchy coleslaw. For an extra kick, add some grilled corn on the cob slathered in herb butter. Trust me, your backyard BBQ guests won’t miss a thing!

Find the Recipe here: Portobello Mushroom Burger

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Get ready for a rainbow on your grill with these vibrant vegetable kabobs! Thread chunks of zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onions onto skewers, brush them with a zesty marinade of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, then watch them transform into charred, tender perfection in just 15 minutes.

These colorful skewers make the perfect side dish alongside grilled corn on the cob, quinoa salad, or your favorite rice pilaf. For extra flair, drizzle them with chimichurri sauce or serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating.

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Beet Burger

Picture this: a juicy, vibrant burger patty that gets its rich red color and earthy sweetness from fresh beets! Mix those beautiful beets with brown rice, sunflower seeds, and fragrant spices like garlic and smoked paprika. Pop these babies on the grill, and watch them transform into mouthwatering patties with perfectly crispy edges.

Stack your burger high on a toasted bun with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado slices. Add a dollop of tangy mustard or spicy chipotle mayo for an extra kick. Pair it with grilled corn on the cob or a fresh cucumber salad for the perfect summer cookout combo.

Find the Recipe here: Beet Burger

Grilled Buffalo Skewers

Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll make your backyard barbecue the talk of the town! These buffalo skewers pack a perfect punch of tangy, spicy goodness, marinated in a mouthwatering blend of hot sauce, maple syrup, and garlic. The secret? A quick press and freeze of the tofu creates that ideal, chewy texture you want in a grilled dish.

Serve these sizzling skewers alongside crispy celery sticks and cooling ranch dip – because what’s buffalo anything without its BFFs? A fresh corn salad or grilled zucchini would also make fantastic sidekicks to balance out the heat. Trust me, these skewers will have everyone at your cookout begging for seconds!

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Buffalo Skewers

BBQ Chickpea Meatballs

These mouthwatering meatballs pack a punch with chickpeas, rolled oats, and BBQ sauce! The secret? A quick blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and smoky seasonings creates that perfect meaty texture. Pop them in the oven for 25 minutes, and watch them turn golden brown with crispy edges while staying tender inside.

Skewer these beauties for an instant party hit, or pile them high on a sub roll with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Want something lighter? Toss them on a bed of quinoa with grilled vegetables, or make sliders with pickled red onions and fresh arugula.

Find the Recipe here: BBQ Chickpea Meatballs

Mexican Street Corn

Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth with this Mexican Street Corn! Picture charred corn on the cob slathered with creamy mayo, sprinkled with chili powder, and topped with crumbled feta cheese. The combination of smoky, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico City.

Serve this mouthwatering corn alongside grilled mushroom tacos, black bean enchiladas, or a fresh quinoa salad for a complete Mexican-inspired feast. For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lime juice and a dash of hot sauce – your guests will beg for seconds!

Find the Recipe here: Mexican Street Corn

Lentil Burger

Get ready for a juicy, hearty burger that’ll make your mouth water! These golden-brown patties pack a protein punch with red lentils, carrots, and onions, seasoned with a perfect blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin. The secret? A quick pulse in the food processor creates that ideal texture – firm enough to hold shape but tender enough to bite through.

Stack your burger with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and creamy avocado on a toasted bun. Add a dollop of chipotle mayo or tangy mustard for extra zing. Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal that’ll satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Find the Recipe here: Lentil Burger

Marinated Tofu

Want to transform bland tofu into a flavor-packed powerhouse? This marinade recipe combines soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and a kick of sriracha that soaks deep into every cube. Just press your tofu, chop it up, and let it swim in this zesty mixture for at least 30 minutes – though overnight will give you maximum punch.

Thread these savory cubes onto skewers with bell peppers and mushrooms, or toss them straight onto your grill for perfect char marks. They’ll make an awesome addition to rice bowls, stir-fries, or sandwiches. For extra flair, sprinkle some sesame seeds and green onions on top before serving.

Find the Recipe here: Marinated Tofu

Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma

Dreaming of Middle Eastern street food? This sheet pan shawarma bursts with authentic flavors thanks to a blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cardamom. Just toss cauliflower, carrots, chickpeas, and bell peppers with olive oil and spices, then roast until golden brown. The result? A mouthwatering medley that captures all the magic of traditional shawarma.

Wrap these roasted goodies in warm pita bread or serve them over fluffy rice. Add a dollop of tahini sauce, fresh cucumber slices, and chopped parsley for the full experience. Want extra zing? A squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of red onions will take this dish to new heights.

Find the Recipe here: Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma

Pan-fried Green Herb Oyster Mushroom

Who knew mushrooms could steal the show at a barbecue? These pan-fried oyster mushrooms pack a flavor punch that’ll make you forget everything else on the grill. Coated in a vibrant blend of parsley, oregano, and thyme, then seared until golden and crispy, they transform into an irresistible dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Serve these herb-coated beauties alongside grilled corn on the cob and a fresh Greek salad for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. They also make fantastic sandwich fillings – just add some roasted red peppers and a dollop of garlicky aioli between two slices of crusty bread.

Find the Recipe here: Pan-fried Green Herb Oyster Mushroom