Summer of BBQ: California

June 16 2010
Posted in Cook It - In Season

As a vegan, I feel that I am every host’s nightmare to have as a dinner guest. Cooking a vegan meal can seem overwhelming for someone without experience, but it's not that tricky (promise!). As the charcoal heats up in Southern California, it only takes a few minor changes that even the devoted carnivores won’t be able to resist. Below are the freshest local vegetables that will be the center of your vegan barbeque this summer (or healthy sides for unrepentant meat-eaters):

Photo: Flickr

Peppers
There's an almost endless variety of peppers to choose from.  One of the most popular types for grilling and eating straight is bell peppers, because of their mild, sweet flavor. The rainbow of red, yellow, green and orange adds summery color to almost any dish you can think of, and their unobtrusive flavor makes them a good complement to most meals.  Marinate with olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, parsley, and oregano before grilling. Sprinkle with a wine vinegar before serving.

Summer Squash
As most varieties of summer squash are resilient and able to grow in warm climates, summer is the best time to purchase these immature vegetables. In particular, the scallop and zucchini varieties grow really well in the Southern California sun. Cut the squash horizontally, then brush a heated mixture of olive oil and minced garlic gloves onto each side. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper before grilling.

Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is another plant that does fairly well growing in the heat of Southern California. Seasoned with lime juice, cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper, it can be eaten right on the cob or cut into a salad.

Hass Avocados
Although they are available year round, California’s Hass avocados are at their peak in the summer months. They can be combined into a chopped salad or made into guacamole. Pick the perfect avocado by looking for those that have a uniform and unblemished skin that gives just slightly when gently pressed.

Cucumbers
Also a member of the squash family, cucumbers are high in water content, making them not only refreshing, but hydrating. Add a few slices to a pitcher of water to add a unique flavor that will keep all of your guests hydrated.

The most important thing to remember when throwing a vegan barbeque is to clean your grill thoroughly before you add any vegetables to it. This will not only keep your veggies from sticking to the grate, it'll keep your meal actually vegan, instead of vegetables speckled with charred bits of old meat (which is unappetizing to vegans and most other people, too).