Sliders with Grilled Vegetables

Name: Sliders with Grilled Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 medium yellow squash, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 whole wheat slider buns; 1/2 cup hummus or your favorite spread; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for grilling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making sliders with grilled vegetables because they bring together a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. The mix of charred veggies and creamy sauce makes for a delicious meal that everyone enjoys. These sliders are perfect for summer barbecues or an easy weeknight dinner, and they're customizable to fit any taste. With just a few minutes on the grill, you can create mouthwatering sliders that will impress your family and friends without a lot of fuss.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:15.079Z

When I first made sliders with grilled vegetables, I thought it would be a simple dish, but it turned out to be a delightful experience. Each vegetable adds its own unique flavor profile, resulting in a versatile and satisfying meal. The trick lies in marinating the vegetables beforehand to intensify their taste and ensure they grill perfectly.

Since then, I’ve played with different combinations of veggies, and I’ve discovered that using a variety of colors not only enhances the dish’s appeal but also packs in more nutrients. Whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, the options are endless, making these sliders a favorite in our household.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant vegetables add a variety of flavors.
Perfect as a light meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies.

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When it comes to grilling sliders, the choice of vegetables plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. Zucchini and yellow squash are excellent options because they have a mild flavor that absorbs seasonings well. Red bell peppers add sweetness and a pop of color, while mushrooms contribute an earthy note. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or asparagus, but be aware that some, like eggplant, may need additional oil to prevent sticking on the grill.

The key to perfectly grilled vegetables is uniform cutting. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/4 inch thick; this ensures even cooking. If you're using firmer vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, consider pre-cooking them briefly to soften them before grilling. This will help them reach the same tenderness as softer options, maintaining a consistent bite in your sliders.

Perfect Grilling Technique

Grilling vegetables is about finding the perfect balance between heat and timing. Medium-high heat is ideal, usually around 400-450°F (204-232°C). Start by placing your vegetables perpendicular to the grill grates to get those beautiful grill marks. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping them only once; this allows for even charring without losing moisture. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially thinner slices, which can char quickly.

Additionally, consider using a grill basket for smaller or cut veggies. This prevents them from falling through the grates and allows for easy tossing. If you don’t have a grill basket, soaking wooden skewers can help keep smaller pieces intact. For a smoky flavor, adding wood chips to your grill can elevate the taste of the vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients for your sliders:

For the Sliders

1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 medium yellow squash, sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 whole wheat slider buns
1/2 cup hummus or your favorite spread
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for grilling

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand before you start grilling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious sliders:

Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.

Prepare the Vegetables

Drizzle the sliced vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss them to coat evenly.

Grill the Vegetables

Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread hummus on the inside of each slider bun, then layer the grilled vegetables on top. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Serve the sliders warm, accompanied by your favorite sides.

Enjoy your freshly made sliders!

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, add some grilled onions or avocado to the sliders. You can also customize them with different sauces to suit your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prepping. The grilled vegetables can last in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container. You can also prepare the spread in advance; hummus will keep fresh for about a week in the fridge. Just assemble the sliders right before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy, ensuring a satisfying crunch with each bite.

If you decide to freeze the grilled vegetables, make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in freezer-safe bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat lightly on the grill or in a sauté pan just until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, consider serving them with a simple mixed green salad or coleslaw for added crunch. If you’re entertaining, a platter with assorted dips, like tzatziki or baba ganoush, can complement the flavors of the sliders. You can even add some pickled vegetables for an extra tangy kick.

Feel free to customize your sliders further with toppings such as fresh avocado slices, sprouts, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. Each addition can enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a unique experience every time you serve them. I love to drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top for a sweet contrast that truly elevates the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prep the vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and slice the vegetables a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to experiment with carrots, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes for a different taste.

→ Can these sliders be made vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the buns and any sauces you use are vegan-friendly.

→ How do I store leftover sliders?

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.