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Grilled Brined Vegetables

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant vegan side dish of grilled brined vegetables offers a sophisticated twist on standard barbecue fare. By simmering root vegetables like carrots or earthy beetroot in a piquant vinegar brine before hitting the heat, you infuse them with a deep, savoury tang while ensuring a perfectly tender interior. The process transforms humble garden produce into a standout accompaniment that balances acidity with the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Ideal for summer entertaining or a healthy weeknight dinner, these versatile vegetables can be prepared in advance and finished on the grill just before serving. The charred edges provide a wonderful smoky contrast to the bright pickles. For a complete meal, try pairing them with a zesty green chilli charmoula or some salty grilled halloumi for a delicious vegetarian option.

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Ingredients for Grilled Brined Vegetables

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 10 black peppercorns

  • 240ml unseasoned rice vinegar

  • 60ml sugar

  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more

  • 450g carrots, beets, or radishes, scrubbed, trimmed, halved or quartered if large

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Green Chilli Charmoula, Spiced Seed Sprinkle, or Grilled Halloumi With Watercress (optional)

How to make Grilled Brined Vegetables

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Bring bay leaves, peppercorns, vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons salt, and 725ml water to a boil in a large saucepan. Simmer carrots or beets in brine until crisp-tender, 8–10 minutes for carrots, 25–30 minutes for beets. For radishes, simply add to brine off heat and let cool. Remove vegetables; pat dry. (Save brine to pickle another batch of vegetables.)

Prepare a grill for medium-high heat. Toss brined vegetables with oil in a large bowl; season lightly with salt. Grill, turning occasionally, until lightly charred in spots, 6–8 minutes. Serve with Green Chilli Charmoula, Spiced Seed Sprinkle, or Grilled Halloumi With Watercress, if desired.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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