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Weekly Wellness Recipe: Grilled Veggies with Bragg's Amino Acids
Grilled vegetables offer a sweet and smoky flavor, as well as boosting some of the nutritional benefits.
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, grilling becomes a favored cooking method for many, promising not only delicious meals but also an engaging way to socialize outdoors. Amidst the sizzling sounds and enticing aromas, a standout ingredient that's gaining popularity is Bragg Liquid Aminos—a savory, healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce. This all-natural seasoning not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also offers a range of nutritional benefits, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste. Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, exploring the use of Bragg Liquid Aminos in your grilling repertoire can transform your vegetarian dishes from simple to spectacular.
Benefits of Bragg Liquid Aminos
Bragg Liquid Aminos is a non-fermented liquid protein concentrate made from non-GMO verified soybeans. It's a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauces, mainly because it doesn't contain alcohol or artificial preservatives and is gluten-free. This makes it suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences.
Nutritional Advantages Over Traditional Soy Sauce
Traditional soy sauces typically undergo a fermentation process and often contain added wheat gluten and preservatives. In contrast, Bragg Liquid Aminos offers a simpler and purer composition, free from gluten and artificial additives, which is significant for those avoiding these ingredients for health or dietary reasons.
Role in a Healthy Diet
Bragg Liquid Aminos is not only a versatile seasoning option but also provides a nutritional boost thanks to its content of 16 essential and non-essential amino acids. These amino acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle repair, immune system support, and metabolism enhancement. The product's lower sodium content compared to many soy sauces is another health benefit, particularly for those managing their salt intake for cardiovascular health.
Overall, Bragg Liquid Aminos can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet, especially for individuals looking for natural, non-GMO, and allergen-free seasoning options.
Make sure you wash your vegetables before slicing and preparing them for the grill.
Selecting and Preparing Vegetables for Grilling
Grilling vegetables is not only a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of summer gardens but also enhances their natural flavors and retains their nutritional benefits. Here’s a guide on the best vegetables for grilling and tips on how to prepare them:
Best Vegetables for Grilling and Why
Zucchini and Summer Squash: These vegetables have a high water content, which helps them cook quickly and evenly on the grill. They also pick up a wonderful charred flavor that complements their natural sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Their firm texture withstands the heat of the grill, and their natural sugars caramelize beautifully, adding a smoky sweetness to any dish.
Eggplant: Its spongy texture absorbs flavors well, especially when marinated. Grilling eggplant gives it a creamy interior and a smoky crust.
Asparagus: The stalks cook quickly and evenly, becoming nicely charred and tender while maintaining a slight crunch. It's also rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn intensifies its inherent sweetness. It’s a summer classic that’s as fun to eat as it is tasty.
Onions: When grilled, onions develop a sweet, mellow flavor as their sugars caramelize. They add a hearty element to any grilled vegetable platter.
Preparation Tips for Grilling
Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding vegetables to avoid sticking and achieve good char marks.
Cut Evenly: Slice vegetables in uniform sizes to promote even cooking.
Oil Them Up: Lightly brush vegetables with oil to prevent sticking and to add an extra layer of flavor. Olive oil or a brushing of Bragg Liquid Aminos can enhance their taste and grilling performance.
Season Well: Season vegetables with salt, pepper, and other spices before grilling. For added umami flavor, marinate them in Bragg Liquid Aminos for a few minutes prior to grilling.
Use Grill Tools: Utilize grill baskets or skewers for smaller pieces to prevent them from falling through the grates.
Watch Closely: Vegetables cook quickly on the grill, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
By selecting the right vegetables and preparing them properly, you can ensure a delicious, healthful addition to any meal that maximizes the natural flavors of the produce. Grilling also retains more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling, making it a healthier cooking method that aligns perfectly with a nutritious lifestyle.
Recipe for Grilled Veggies with Bragg's Liquid Aminos
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish with this simple recipe for grilled vegetables, seasoned with the umami-rich flavor of Bragg's Liquid Aminos. This recipe offers a perfect blend of health benefits and taste, ideal for any summer meal.
Seasoning Process Using Bragg's Liquid Aminos
Bragg's Liquid Aminos is used here both as a marinade and a flavor enhancer. Its rich umami quality deepens the natural flavors of the vegetables, adding a savory note that complements the charred, smoky taste from the grill. This seasoning is not only delicious but also offers a healthier alternative to salt, providing amino acids without added preservatives found in traditional soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into wide strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into wide strips
- 1 large red onion, cut into rounds
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Bragg's Liquid Aminos
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry all vegetables. Slice the zucchini, yellow squash, and bell peppers into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Peel and cut the onion into thick rounds.
Marinate: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Bragg's Liquid Aminos, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss the vegetables in the marinade until well-coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Grill the Vegetables: Arrange the vegetables on the grill. For smaller pieces, consider using a grill basket to prevent them from slipping through the grates. Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side or until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
Serving: Remove the vegetables from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Skewers can help keep veggies on the grill and make it easier to transport the veggies on and off the grill.
Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions
Nutritional Breakdown
Grilling vegetables with Bragg's Liquid Aminos not only enhances their flavor but also preserves their nutritional value. Here’s a closer look at the health benefits:
Zucchini and Summer Squash: These are low in calories but high in fiber and vitamin C.
Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, bell peppers help boost immunity and skin health.
Eggplant: Provides fiber, vitamins B1 and B6, and potassium, and is known for supporting heart health.
Asparagus: A great source of fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K.
Onion: Offers vitamin C and chromium, which helps regulate blood sugar.
Bragg's Liquid Aminos: Provides essential and non-essential amino acids, which are vital for muscle development and overall health.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled vegetables are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways:
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled proteins such as chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced meal.
In Salads: Chop the grilled vegetables and toss them in a fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing for a hearty lunch.
In Wraps and Sandwiches: Add a smoky flavor to wraps and sandwiches by including grilled vegetables as a filling.
With Pasta: Mix them with pasta and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dash of olive oil and garlic for a simple yet tasty dinner.
As a Pizza Topping: Enhance the flavor of homemade pizzas by adding a layer of grilled vegetables before baking.
In Grain Bowls: Combine with quinoa, brown rice, or farro, and top with your choice of dressing for a nutrient-packed meal.
These grilled vegetables can transform any meal, adding not only flavor and texture but also valuable nutrients. Whether you're looking for a standalone dish or a complement to mains, these veggies are sure to delight.
Incorporating Bragg's Liquid Aminos into your grilling routine offers a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional seasonings, enhancing the natural flavors of vegetables with its rich, umami essence. The benefits of using this soy sauce substitute extend beyond taste, providing essential amino acids that contribute to a healthier diet without the added preservatives found in conventional sauces. Grilling vegetables is not only a quick and easy way to prepare them but also retains their nutritional value, making your meals both healthful and flavorful.
We encourage you to experiment with different combinations of vegetables and to explore the versatility of Bragg's Liquid Aminos in other dishes as well. Whether you're crafting a vibrant veggie platter, tossing them into a summer salad, or enhancing a homemade pizza, the possibilities are endless. Try this recipe today and discover the perfect blend of wellness and taste!
For more delicious and nutritious recipes, check out these articles:
Weekly Wellness Recipe: High-Protein Grilled Chicken Salad
Weekly Wellness Recipe: Zucchini Salad with Lemon Herb Shrimp and Cucumber Mint Refresher