Outdoor gatherings are all about laughter, fresh air, and the unmistakable aroma of food sizzling on the grill. While tandoori and BBQ dishes are often associated with meat, vegetarian recipes bring just as much spice, smokiness, and excitement to the table. These 8 irresistible tandoori and BBQ recipes are packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd—without a single non-veg ingredient. Get ready to fire up the grill and dazzle your guests!
1. Tandoori Paneer Skewers
Juicy chunks of paneer marinated in a spiced yogurt mix with turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and lemon juice are grilled to golden perfection. Threaded with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, these skewers are not just flavorful but also colorful and crowd-pleasing. The paneer gets deliciously charred on the outside while staying soft inside, making this a vegetarian BBQ classic that’s always a hit.
2. Grilled Tandoori Cauliflower Steaks
Thick slices of cauliflower marinated in a vibrant tandoori paste turn into golden, smoky slabs of pure flavor on the grill. The cauliflower absorbs the spices beautifully, developing a tender texture with crisp edges. Served with mint chutney or lemon yogurt dip, these steaks are a hearty main course or a shareable side dish that’s bold, healthy, and completely satisfying.
3. BBQ Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers become edible bowls of deliciousness when stuffed with a mixture of spiced rice, corn, black beans, onions, and cheese (or vegan shreds). Wrap them in foil and let them roast on the grill until smoky and tender. They not only look impressive on a platter but also burst with flavors and textures. A touch of BBQ sauce adds that extra zing guests will love.
4. Tandoori Mushroom Tikka
Button or cremini mushrooms marinated in a bold tandoori blend turn incredibly juicy and flavorful when grilled. The mushrooms soak up the smoky spices and deliver a meaty bite without the meat. Skewer them with onions and bell peppers, and grill until charred. Serve with lime wedges and a cool cucumber raita to balance the heat.
5. Grilled Corn with Masala Butter
Take sweet corn to the next level with a slathering of masala butter—made from melted butter, chaat masala, chili powder, and lime juice. Grilled until lightly charred and smoky, this street-style favorite is spicy, tangy, and irresistibly messy in the best way. Serve hot off the grill for a nostalgic treat that pairs perfectly with other tandoori dishes.
6. BBQ Pineapple Chaat
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness while giving it a slightly smoky edge. Cut thick rings or chunks, grill until caramelized, then toss with chaat masala, black salt, mint, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s juicy, spicy, tangy, and sweet—a tropical chaat that adds a fruity twist to your outdoor menu and cleanses the palate between bites.
7. Tandoori Soya Chaap
Soya chaap is a protein-rich, plant-based meat alternative that’s incredibly popular in North Indian tandoori cooking. Marinate the chaap in a spicy yogurt blend with ginger-garlic paste, red chili, and kasuri methi, then grill or bake until charred. The texture is satisfyingly chewy, and the spices penetrate deeply, making it a must-try for BBQ lovers looking for a meatless marvel.
8. BBQ Veggie Platter with Tandoori Marinade
Don’t underestimate the power of mixed vegetables marinated in a tandoori-style spice blend. Zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and baby potatoes all come alive with smoky, spicy flavors when grilled over open flames. Serve them on a giant platter with lemon wedges, herbed yogurt dip, or chutney for a visually stunning and flavor-packed centerpiece.
Conclusion
Who says BBQs are just for meat lovers? These 8 tandoori and BBQ vegetarian recipes prove that plant-based grilling can be just as bold, satisfying, and mouthwatering. With their vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and rich Indian-inspired flavors, they’re guaranteed to steal the show at your next outdoor gathering. Fire up the grill and let the veggie feast begin!
