Italian Winter Vegetable Grill Platter

Introduction

Enjoy the rich flavors of seasonal winter vegetables grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. Chicory, fennel, and squash are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness, finished with a luscious butter drizzle that enhances their texture and depth of flavor. This hearty, rustic platter is a fantastic side dish or a vegetarian main course, perfect for any occasion. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 2 heads of chicory, halved
• 1 fennel bulb, sliced
• 1 small butternut squash, sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the paper and let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Cut and slice the chicory, fennel, and butternut squash to ensure even cooking.
2. Melt the butter and mix it with chopped rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

1. Place the vegetables on the Arteflame griddle cooktop, keeping squash closer to the center where it’s hottest.
2. Let veggies caramelize, turning occasionally to achieve even grill marks.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Once the vegetables are tender and caramelized, remove them from the grill.
2. Drizzle the melted butter mixture over the grilled vegetables.
3. Finish with fresh lemon slices for brightness.

Tips

• Grill the fennel in slightly thicker slices to maintain its structure while cooking.
• Use a grill press for even charring and to keep vegetables from curling up.
• Place the lemon slices directly onto the grill for a smoky citrus finish.

Variations

1. Parmesan Infused: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the hot veggies before serving.
2. Garlic Butter: Mix roasted garlic into the melted butter for a deeper flavor.
3. Spiced Honey: Drizzle honey and a touch of smoked paprika for a sweet and smoky balance.
4. Balsamic Glaze: Add a balsamic drizzle for a tangy depth of flavor.
5. Mediterranean: Toss in Kalamata olives and crumbled feta for a classic Mediterranean twist.

Conclusion

Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of winter vegetables while adding a beautiful caramelized char. The butter infusion enhances the depth of flavor, taking these seasonal ingredients to the next level. Serve this as a side or a main dish—your guests will love it!

Best Pairings

• Grilled steak or lamb chops seared on the center grill grate.
• Rustic Italian bread grilled for a crispy, smoky touch.
• A glass of bold red wine like Chianti or Barbera.
• A fresh arugula salad with lemon dressing to balance the flavors.