When the sun is shining and the grill is fired up, there’s nothing quite like a cookout. It brings people together for delicious food and good times. In this collection of recipes, I have gathered 21 vegan cookout ideas from main dishes to sides to make your warm-weather gatherings flavorful and vegan-friendly!
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan looking for new plant-based barbecue ideas or someone curious about adding more plant-based dishes to your outdoor gatherings, this collection of vegan cookout ideas is sure to inspire. From smoky grilled vegetables to hearty veggie burgers and refreshing salads, these recipes are bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
So fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and get ready to enjoy these vegan cookout recipes during your summer feast!
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What is a cookout?
A cookout is a gathering where food is cooked outdoors over an open flame or on a grill. It is often a social event where friends and family enjoy grilled meat, vegetables, and other dishes. They are popular in many cultures during the warmer months and are often associated with summertime activities and outdoor celebrations.
What is the difference between a cookout and a BBQ?
The terms “cookout” and “BBQ” are often used interchangeably. However, they can have slightly different meanings depending on the region and context. A cookout is a more informal gathering where food is cooked outdoors, typically on a grill. It can include a variety of dishes beyond barbecue, such as burgers, hot dogs, and salads.
On the other hand, BBQ (short for barbecue) often refers to the cooking method. BBQ typically includes the slow-cooking of meat over low heat, usually with wood smoke, to impart a smoky flavor. However, BBQ can also refer to the style of food, or the sauce that is used.
All BBQs are technically cookouts, but not all cookouts are BBQs. When it comes to vegan BBQ, that usually refers to grilling foods on the open flame, or using BBQ sauce to spice up your tofu or veggies burgers.
Vegan Cookout Main Dishes
Imagine juicy vegetable skewers marinated in flavorful herbs and spices. Or hearty portobello mushroom burgers, with their smoky aroma filling the air. These main dishes showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients, proving that a vegan cookout can be just as satisfying and delicious as its meaty counterpart. You’ll find an array of charred veggie burgers, grilled tofu steaks, and more which will bring an unexpected flair to your outdoor cooking.
Vegan Tofu Kababs
A quick and easy soy sauce marinade is added to the tofu then skewered with seasonal vegetables and cooked over an open flame for a smoky flavor, and the perfect grill marks with these vegan kebabs. A great way to start your vegan cookout!
Black Bean and Quinoa Burgers
Form these black bean and quinoa burgers and grill them over an open flame for a homemade veggie burger that is as healthy as it is tasty!
Jackfruit Burgers
BBQ jackfruit and black beans are combined into a flavorful patty, which is made even more tasty by cooking it on the grill.
Carrot Dogs
Turn your carrots into a smoky and savory hot dogs by marinating them in liquid smoke. Add them to the grill for the ultimate healthy cookout recipe!
Chickpea Patties
These chickpea patties are the ultimate cookout comfort food, with a savory patty with fresh herbs, red onion, and a delectable vegan dill spread.
Marinated Tofu Steaks
These delectable tofu steaks are marinated in a smoky mixture of soy sauce, maple syrup, and spices, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy finish.
Portobello Mushroom Burgers
The ultimate sandwich is here! This meaty portobello mushroom cap has a robust flavor, and is marinated to perfection, enhancing its natural umami taste. The mushroom caramelizes as it sizzles on the grill, creating a mouthwatering aroma. Serve with your favorite burger toppings and a generous helping of vegan mayo.
Vegan Cookout Side Dishes
Side dishes are often the stars of the show at a cookout. They bring color, flavor, and variety to your outdoor celebration. These salads are bursting with fresh produce, hearty grains, and legumes. These vegan cookout side dishes offer a delightful array of flavors and textures.
Vegan Bean Salad
This classic three-bean salad is elevated with a zesty vinaigrette dressing. This simple yet satisfying dish combines the wholesome goodness of beans and the vibrant flavors of a tangy citrus dressing.
Vegan Pasta Salad
This simple dairy-free pasta salad is bursting with the flavors of fresh herbs, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers. It features gluten-free chickpea pasta, offering a protein boost alongside its vegetables.
Vegan Potato Salad with Herbs
Red potatoes are boiled until tender, then cooled and tossed in a dairy-free dressing. Fresh dill and scallions provide an enticing herbal flavor.
Quinoa Salad
This light and refreshing salad is full of plant-protein. You’ll find a combination of sweet red peppers, and refreshing cucumbers with chopped baby kale and a tangy lemon dressing.
Edamame and Black Bean Salad
Get a healthy dose of plant protein in this edamame and black bean salad with sweet red pepper and summer corn for a delightful combination of veggies with lime dressing. Add diced avocados for a creamy element!
Vegan Baked Beans
These vegan baked beans are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, made with all-natural plant-based ingredients, and so quick and easy!
Mango Cucumber Salad
Juicy sweet mangoes are combined with crisp cucumbers and spicy red pepper flakes. The combination of sweet and spicy makes for a tantalizing salad.
Lentil Tabbouleh Salad
Fresh mint, parsley, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, are tossed together with lentils and lemon juice. It’s a simple and refreshing salad with added plant protein.
Vegan Broccoli Salad
Vegan broccoli salad is a colorful side dish with a crisp texture and a mild, earthy taste. Mixed with colorful diced onions, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries, with a creamy dressing to pull it all together, this salad is sure to please.
Vegan Cookout Desserts
This round-up of vegan cookout ideas wouldn’t be complete without a sweet finale. These desserts bring a sweet ending to your outdoor feast. There are fruity delights like grilled pineapple and peach halves. You’ll also discover classic favorites like vegan brownies, blondies, and chocolate chip cookies. These desserts offer a satisfyingly sweet conclusion to your vegan cookout.
Grilled Pineapple
The pineapple’s natural sweetness intensifies as it caramelizes on the grill, creating a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors.
Grilled Peaches
These grilled peaches are finished with a decadent blackberry coconut cream for a delightful summer treat. The heat of the grill softens the peaches, enhancing their juiciness and creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vegan Brownies
It wouldn’t be a cookout with the chocolate fudginess from your favorite brownies. These vegan brownies are the best, with their deep dark chocolate flavor and chewy texture.
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Soft and chewy vegan chocolate chip cookies are a must for any outdoor gathering. This traditional treat is loved by all, and nobody will know they are vegan!
Healthy Chickpea Blondies
Sink your teeth into these irresistible Vegan Blondies, crafted with just 8 simple ingredients. Chewy, decadent, and bursting with chocolate chips, these treats offer a guilt-free indulgence. Watch them disappear at your cookout!
The vegan cookout ideas offer a diverse and flavorful array of options that are not only delicious but nutritious. You’ll find hearty burgers and colorful salads, as well as sweet and satisfying desserts. These plant-based dishes prove that vegan cooking is creative, satisfying, and perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Please comment below if you found this article helpful or have any additional questions. You can also follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for more family-friendly vegan recipes!
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