Flavorful Marinated Mushroom Kabobs
These Flavorful Marinated Mushroom Kabobs are juicy, smoky, and packed with umami goodness! The mushrooms soak up a delicious marinade of garlic, balsamic vinegar, and herbs, then get grilled or roasted to perfection. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or vegetarian main course, these kabobs are great for summer BBQs, meal prep, or adding a delicious touch to any meal.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Kabobs:
- 16 oz (1 lb) button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
- 1 small red onion, cut into chunks (optional)
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds (optional)
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice for a citrusy twist)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms
- Place the cleaned mushrooms in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
- Pour the marinade over the mushrooms, toss to coat evenly, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the mushrooms onto the skewers, alternating with bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini (if using).
Step 4: Cook the Kabobs
For Grilling:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (375-400°F / 190-200°C).
- Place kabobs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until mushrooms are tender and slightly charred.
For Oven Roasting:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra balsamic glaze.
- Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or as a side to grilled proteins.
Tips for Success
✔ Don’t skip marination – Mushrooms absorb flavors beautifully, so let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
✔ Use sturdy mushrooms – Cremini, button, or baby portobello mushrooms work best.
✔ Avoid overcrowding – Leave small gaps between veggies for even cooking.
✔ Add extra heat – Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
✔ Make ahead – Marinate the mushrooms overnight for deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1 serving, without additional veggies)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 250mg
Health Benefits
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Mushrooms are packed with immune-boosting compounds.
✅ Low in Calories – Perfect for weight management.
✅ Gut-Friendly – High in fiber and prebiotics for digestive health.
✅ Heart-Healthy – Olive oil and balsamic vinegar support cardiovascular health.
✅ Vegan & Gluten-Free – Naturally suitable for a variety of diets.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Yes! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and onions pair well with mushrooms.
Q: Can I cook these in a pan instead?
A: Absolutely! Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sauté for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Q: Can I use large portobello mushrooms instead?
A: Yes! Just slice them into thick strips before marinating and grilling.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze marinated mushrooms?
A: It’s best to marinate fresh, but you can freeze them before cooking for up to 2 months.
These Flavorful Marinated Mushroom Kabobs are easy, healthy, and bursting with smoky, tangy, and umami flavors. Whether grilled, roasted, or pan-cooked, they make a perfect side or main dish for any occasion!