14 Vegan BBQ Dishes That Steal the Show

Fire up your grill because I’ve got 14 mouthwatering BBQ recipes that will make your summer cookouts unforgettable! From juicy pulled mushroom burgers to crispy teriyaki tofu and smoky butternut squash steaks, these dishes pack bold flavors and satisfying textures that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

My global travels inspired many of these recipes – you’ll find Mediterranean-spiced eggplant, Japanese-style teriyaki mushrooms with bok choy, and zesty chimichurri tofu that brings South American flair to your backyard gathering. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting these recipes in my kitchen, focusing on simple techniques that bring out the natural richness of each ingredient.

The magic lies in the marinades, rubs, and sauces that transform everyday ingredients into BBQ masterpieces. Think sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze, spicy buffalo sauce, and herb-packed chimichurri – these flavor bombs take each dish from good to incredible. I’ve made sure every recipe uses ingredients you can find at your local grocery store, making it easy to recreate these crowd-pleasers at home.

BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger

Your next BBQ sandwich obsession starts with shredded oyster mushrooms! Mix them with a rich, smoky homemade barbecue sauce that brings just the right balance of tang and sweetness. The tender, meaty texture of the mushrooms creates an incredibly satisfying sandwich filling that captures all the bold flavors you crave.

Stack your pulled mushrooms high on toasted brioche buns and top with crunchy coleslaw for the perfect contrast. Add some crispy sweet potato wedges or grilled corn on the side to round out this crowd-pleasing meal. The leftovers taste even better the next day!

Find the Recipe here: BBQ Pulled Mushroom Burger

BBQ Chickpea Meatballs

These tender meatballs pack tons of protein and fiber from chickpeas, mushrooms, and walnuts. The savory mix creates a meaty texture while the BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. Just blend the ingredients, shape into balls, and bake until golden brown. The result? Crowd-pleasing meatballs perfect for your next cookout.

Serve these hearty meatballs over rice, quinoa or mashed potatoes. They also make incredible sub sandwiches – just add your favorite toppings like caramelized onions, pickles and extra BBQ sauce. For a lighter option, pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.

Find the Recipe here: BBQ Chickpea Meatballs

Buffalo Cauliflower

Transform your cauliflower into a crowd-pleasing BBQ sensation with this spicy buffalo coating. You’ll create addictively crispy florets by coating them in a simple batter, then baking until golden brown. A final toss in that signature hot and tangy buffalo sauce takes these bites to the next level of deliciousness.

Serve these zesty buffalo bites as an appetizer alongside cool ranch dressing and crisp celery sticks. They also make a fantastic addition to grain bowls, wraps, or tacos. The leftovers (if you have any!) heat up beautifully in the air fryer for maximum crispiness.

Find the Recipe here: Buffalo Cauliflower

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

You’ll want these colorful kabobs at your next BBQ gathering! Thread fresh bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onions onto skewers, brush with a simple marinade of olive oil and Italian herbs, then grill until tender with beautiful char marks. The natural sweetness of the vegetables intensifies on the grill, creating irresistible smoky flavors in every bite.

Serve these kabobs over fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up all the delicious juices. Add a side of grilled corn on the cob and a fresh Greek salad for a complete summer meal that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Butternut Squash Steaks

Transform butternut squash into tender, caramelized steaks with a few simple ingredients. Just slice the squash into thick portions, brush with olive oil, and season with garlic, paprika, and herbs. After roasting at high heat, each piece develops a golden-brown crust while staying juicy inside – creating a hearty main dish that will satisfy everyone at your BBQ.

Serve these steaks over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes with a side of grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. A drizzle of chimichurri sauce or balsamic glaze adds bright, fresh notes that complement the natural sweetness of the squash perfectly.

Find the Recipe here: Butternut Squash Steaks

Teriyaki Oyster Mushroom Steak with Bok Choy

Transform meaty oyster mushrooms into a satisfying main dish with this bold teriyaki marinade. The trick lies in scoring the mushrooms before marinating them – this helps the sweet and savory sauce penetrate deep into every bite. Pan-searing creates a gorgeous golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Serve this with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add quick-pickled carrots and cucumbers on the side for a bright, crunchy contrast that cuts through the rich teriyaki glaze. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions makes the perfect finishing touch.

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

Grilled Buffalo Skewers

These skewers pack a punch with their bold Buffalo sauce marinade and smoky char from the grill! The tofu cubes soak up all the tangy, spicy flavors while staying tender on the inside with a satisfying exterior. I brush them with extra sauce during grilling to build up those irresistible caramelized bits that make everyone reach for seconds.

Serve these crowd-pleasing skewers alongside crisp celery and carrot sticks with creamy ranch dressing for dipping. Add some grilled corn on the cob and a fresh coleslaw to round out your BBQ spread. The combination of cool, crunchy sides balances the heat perfectly.

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Buffalo Skewers

Portobello Mushroom Burger

Marinate your portobello mushrooms in a zesty blend of balsamic vinegar, tamari sauce, and garlic for 15 minutes to create a hearty burger patty. Pan-sear each mushroom cap until tender, then build your burger with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and homemade cashew mayo for extra creaminess and depth.

Serve these satisfying burgers alongside crispy sweet potato wedges dusted with smoked paprika, or a fresh corn and black bean salad. A crunchy coleslaw with apple cider vinegar dressing adds brightness and texture to complete your meal.

Find the Recipe here: Portobello Mushroom Burger

Grilled Vegetable Napoleon

Transform basic grilled vegetables into a stunning layered masterpiece! Stack tender eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms between smooth cashew ricotta for an elegant dish that will impress your guests. The charred vegetables pack deep smoky notes while the creamy filling adds richness to each bite.

Serve this showstopping napoleon as a main course alongside quinoa pilaf or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete meal, add a fresh garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette or roasted fingerling potatoes seasoned with herbs.

Find the Recipe here: Grilled Vegetable Napoleon

Crispy Sticky Teriyaki Tofu (Copycat Pei Wei)

I create this irresistible teriyaki tofu by pressing extra firm tofu until all moisture drains, then coating it in cornstarch for that perfect golden-brown crunch. The homemade teriyaki sauce combines soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup, creating a sweet and savory glaze that coats each crispy cube. A quick stir-fry brings everything together in under 30 minutes.

Serve this saucy tofu over fluffy jasmine rice with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers on the side. For extra texture and flavor, top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. This dish also pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or quinoa if you want to switch things up.

Find the Recipe here: Crispy Sticky Teriyaki Tofu (Copycat Pei Wei)

Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant

Fire up your grill and transform simple eggplant slices into a Mediterranean masterpiece! Brush thick rounds with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, and thyme, then grill until tender with perfect char marks. The smoky, caramelized exterior gives way to a buttery-soft center that captures all those aromatic herbs.

Serve these grilled eggplant rounds as a side dish next to rice pilaf or quinoa. Add them to sandwiches with fresh tomatoes and herbs, or layer them in pasta dishes. For a stunning appetizer spread, arrange the slices on a platter with hummus, olives, and warm pita bread.

Find the Recipe here: Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant

Tofu Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Press and marinate your tofu in soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic for at least 30 minutes to create a juicy, flavorful steak. Cook it in a cast iron skillet until golden brown, then top with a bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce made from fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

Serve this protein-rich main dish alongside grilled corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. The chimichurri sauce also doubles as an excellent dressing for any side vegetables or grain bowls you want to pair with your meal.

Find the Recipe here: Tofu Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Pan-fried Green Herb Oyster Mushroom

Transform oyster mushrooms into a mouthwatering dish with fresh herbs and garlic in just 15 minutes. The trick lies in pan-frying them until golden brown and crispy on the outside while keeping their meaty texture inside. A sprinkle of fresh parsley, dill, and chives adds bright notes that make this simple preparation shine.

Serve these savory mushrooms alongside fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up the garlicky pan juices. They also make an excellent topping for creamy polenta or tossed with your favorite pasta. For a complete meal, add roasted asparagus or steamed green beans on the side.

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

Cauliflower Steak

Transform a humble cauliflower into a show-stopping main dish by cutting it into thick, meaty slices and roasting until golden brown. The natural sweetness intensifies in the oven while the edges turn deliciously crispy. A rich, creamy peppercorn sauce adds depth and a luxurious finish that makes this dish extra special.

Serve these gorgeous steaks on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up every drop of the sauce. Add roasted cherry tomatoes and sautéed mushrooms on the side for a complete meal that will impress any dinner guest.

Find the Recipe here: Cauliflower Steak