Grilled Veggie Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce

|   Yield: 8 skewers   |   Prep Time: 15 min   |   Total Time: 30 min

Enjoy wholesome, colorful plant-based kebabs grilled on the barbecue or in the oven! Add a twist with flavorful chimichurri sauce, an Argentinean condiment to spice up your veggies.

Kebab Ingredients:

• 2 small zucchinis 
• 2 medium red bell peppers (seeds removed and chopped into large pieces)
• 2 medium yellow bell peppers (seeds removed and chopped into large pieces)
• 2 medium red onions (peeled and chopped into large pieces)
• 3 large portobello mushrooms (wiped clean and chopped into large pieces)
• 8 skewers

Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients: 

• 1 cup firmly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves (can sub 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
• 3 to 4 garlic cloves
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red or white wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Optional variations:

• For a bit more heat, add 1 medium serrano pepper (chopped)
• For a touch of sweetness, add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
• For added zest, add 3 tablespoons of lime juice

Directions for the Kebabs:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 20 minutes.
2. If using a barbecue, preheat the grill. If using an oven, preheat the oven to medium-high heat (350 - 400 F).
3. Chop the onions into large pieces. Cut bell peppers and mushrooms into large chunks. Slice the zucchinis into rounds 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch thick. Add the sliced veggies to a bowl and toss everything with the olive oil, vinegar, spices and salt.
4. Skewer the vegetables. 
5. For a barbecue, place the skewers directly on the grill. Grill 10 to 12 minutes until tender and browning around the edges, turning every few minutes.
6. For oven cooking, place each skewer on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. 

Directions for Chimichurri Sauce: 

1. While the skewers are grilling, finely chop the parsley, fresh oregano, and garlic (or process in a food processor several pulses). Place in a small bowl.
2. Stir in the olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Adjust seasonings as desired. 
3. Pour the chimichurri sauce over the grilled veggie skewers and serve. You can also make the sauce beforehand and refrigerate. If chilled, return to room temperature before serving.