When the sun is shining, there’s nothing better than firing up the BBQ and enjoying fresh, smoky flavours. But BBQs aren’t just for burgers and sausages, plant-based dishes can be just as bold, colourful, and satisfying.
In this blog, we’re sharing three mouth-watering vegan BBQ recipes: smoky cauliflower steaks, sweetcorn fritters, and a fresh chickpea salad. We’ll also suggest infused water pairings that balance the smoky flavours perfectly and explain why tap water is the most precious and best-quality drink you can serve.
BBQ cauliflower steaks
Cauliflower transforms beautifully on the BBQ – slightly charred on the outside, tender in the middle, and full of flavour.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Slice the cauliflower into thick “steaks.”
- Brush with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 5–7 minutes each side until golden and smoky.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an extra kick.
Sweetcorn fritters
Sweet, juicy corn with a crispy edge – these fritters are perfect for BBQ snacking.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweetcorn (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup plain flour
- 2 tbsp chopped spring onion
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
- Salt and pepper
Method:
- Mix all ingredients into a thick batter.
- Spoon small dollops onto a lightly oiled BBQ hotplate or frying pan.
- Cook until golden on both sides.
Chickpea salad with fresh herbs
A zesty, protein-packed salad that balances smoky BBQ flavours.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- A handful of fresh parsley and mint, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Toss well and chill until ready to serve.
Infused water ideas to complement smoky veggies
Smoky flavours work well with citrus and fresh herbs. Try these infusion combinations:
- Orange, basil & ginger – refreshing with a peppery twist.
- Lemon, mint & cucumber – cooling and hydrating.
- Strawberry & rosemary – fruity with an aromatic note.
Simply add sliced fruit, herbs, and a few ice cubes to a jug of cold tap water. Let it infuse for 30 minutes before serving.
Why tap water is the perfect BBQ drink
Here’s a fact you might not know: tap water in the UK is tested for quality more often than bottled water. In fact, it goes through thousands of checks every day for safety and taste. Bottled water, in comparison, is tested far less frequently.
Choosing tap water isn’t just safe, it’s also sustainable. It produces less plastic waste, reduces transport emissions, and has a much smaller carbon footprint than bottled water. Plus, when served cold and infused with fresh ingredients, it tastes just as good (if not better) than expensive bottled options.
So, the next time you host a BBQ, you can feel good knowing you’re making a choice that’s healthier for both your guests and the local environment.
Find out more about your water quality