The Ultimate Vegan Summer Barbecue: Black Bean Burgers, Carrot Dogs, Pasta Salad with Pineapple Dressing, Corn on the Cob and Barbecue Tofu Skewers

 Hello, there! As summer begins heats up, it's time to fire up the grill and enjoy some mouth-watering vegan barbecue meals. No need to feel at a lost. I got you!  You can still enjoy all your favorite barbecue  summer meals veganized! Today, I'm sharing my favorite recipes for a perfect summer barbecue: Black Bean Burgers, Carrot Dogs, Pasta Salad with Pineapple Dressing, classic Corn on the Cob and barbecue tofu skewers. These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great all summer long. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, these recipes are sure to be a hit. So let's dive in........😋

 

Black Bean Burgers 🍔 
**Ingredients:**                              

-1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
-1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if necessary)
-1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
-1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
-1 tablespoon chili powder
-1 teaspoon cumin
-1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-1 teaspoon liquid smoke
-Salt and pepper to taste
-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying or brushing if baking)

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, red onion, bell pepper, garlic, flax egg, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Form the mixture into 4-6 patties.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until crispy and heated through.
   • Or: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. (These burgers can also be grilled)
     

Health Benefits: Black beans are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, which help keep you full and support digestive health. They're also rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
                                                                                                                                      

Carrot Dogs
**Ingredients:**
- 8 large carrots, peeled and ends trimmed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Hot dog buns (use gluten-free if necessary)

**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the carrots for 8-10 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.
2. In a shallow dish, mix the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, vegetable broth, maple syrup, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the carrots to the marinade, ensuring they're fully submerged. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium heat. Grill the carrots for 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly charred.
5. Serve in hot dog buns with your favorite toppings.

**Health Benefits**
Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, promoting eye health and a strong immune system. They're also high in fiber and low in calories.

Pasta Salad with Pineapple Dressing                                                          

**Ingredients:**
- 12 ounces pasta (use gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded carrots

**For the Pineapple Dressing:**
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

**Health Benefits:**
This pasta salad is a refreshing and nutrient-dense dish. The cucumbers and tomatoes are hydrating and rich in vitamins, while carrots add beta-carotene. Pineapple is a great source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion.

 Corn on the Cob
**Ingredients:**
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the corn with vegan butter and grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred.
   - **Or**:Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
2. Spread the vegan butter over the cooked corn and season with salt and pepper.

**Health Benefits:**
Corn is a good source of fiber and essential nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, and B vitamins. It's also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.

BBQ Tofu Skewers 

**Ingredients:**

-1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

-1 cup pineapple chunks

-1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

-1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks

-1/4 cup barbecue sauce

-Skewers

 

 

 

 

 

 **Instructions:**

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Thread the tofu, pineapple, and bell peppers onto the skewers, alternating ingredients.
4. Brush the skewers with barbecue sauce.
5. Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is slightly charred and the vegetables are tender.
   • Or: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning and brushing with additional barbecue sauce halfway through.

**Health Benefits:** Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. It's also rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium. Pineapple adds a dose of vitamin C and bromelain, while bell peppers provide vitamins A and C.

So, there you have it.  Let's get this vegan summer barbecue started! These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you glowing inside and out. Enjoy! 🌞🍔🌽