Fire Up the Flavor with Grilled Veggie Mains

Sure, fresh, in-season produce can make a gorgeous salad or a showstopping side — but it can also take on a starring role in summertime meals.

We’re sharing five delicious recipes — plus a few savvy grilling shortcuts — that will have you enjoying veggie-forward favorites all summer long.

The recipes are especially tasty prepared on a kettle or ceramic grill using hardwood lump charcoal to infuse the vegetables with smoky flavor. Using a gas grill? Consider filling an aluminum pan with hardwood lump charcoal and sitting it on the cool side of the grill.

Ratatouille Pasta

This rustic pasta recipe featuring grilled veggies is inspired by the classic French dish ratatouille.

Garlic-Truffle Veggie Burger

This hearty burger truly stands up to the grill. Play around with flavors to give it a Tex-Mex-inspired spin.

Grilled Cauliflower Steak

Serve these meaty vegetarian steaks with a knife and fork. Try with the aji sauce — or any bottled barbecue sauce you like.

Grilled Caprese Salad

A turn on the grill imparts smokiness to the vegetables and enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Fresh Marinated Tomatoes

This deliciously fresh marinated tomato recipe puts ripe and juicy tomatoes to good use.

These simple meals use premade or fast-cooking items you can find in-store — and they’re all ready in 30 minutes or less.

Chicago-Style Veggie Dog

Grill a vegetarian sausage or hot dog according to package directions. Serve on a warm poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, tomato slices, diced onion, pickle spears, pickled peppers and a dash of celery salt for a ballpark-inspired experience.

Grilled Naan Pizza

Top naan bread with premade pesto, roasted red pepper, jarred artichoke hearts and shredded mozzarella. Grill over medium heat until naan is crisp and cheese is melted. Finish with fresh basil or parsley.

Foil Packet Pasta

Cook spaghetti and transfer to a large sheet of heavy duty foil, along with tomatoes, garlic, goat cheese, red pepper flakes and a splash of olive oil. Fold over and seal to create a packet. Grill until tomatoes release their juices and cheese is warmed. Finish with fresh basil for an elegant pasta dinner.