Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash

Name: Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliders or buns; Condiments of your choice

Highlighted under: Instant Planning

I absolutely love whipping up my Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash for gatherings or even just a cozy night in. It combines fresh vegetables with aromatic herbs, creating a delectable, satisfying treat that's perfect for sliders. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can customize it with your favorite veggies, and the garlic-herb blend brings everything together for a delightful flavor explosion. Whether I'm entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this dish always brings a smile to my face.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:41:35.179Z

Trying out different combinations of veggies has been a culinary adventure for me, and this Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash has quickly become a favorite. I discovered that the key to making the veggies shine is to use a mix of vibrant colors and textures, including bell peppers and zucchinis. Roasting them with garlic and herbs elevates the natural flavors and makes every bite irresistible.

What I found particularly delightful about this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or add some cheese for extra decadence. It’s a fun, interactive meal that allows everyone to build their sliders just the way they like them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh flavors from garlic and herbs
Versatile with endless veggie swap options
Fun and interactive for gatherings

      

Transforming Fresh Ingredients into Flavor

The heart of the Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash lies in its vibrant vegetables. Fresh bell peppers not only add a splash of color but also bring a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory garlic. When selecting zucchini, opt for firm, glossy ones to ensure they're at peak freshness. The cherry tomatoes should be bright red and plump, bursting with juice when you bite into them. These fresh ingredients create a taste that is far superior to store-bought options.

Using aromatic herbs such as parsley and basil is crucial for elevating the flavor profile. Fresh herbs contribute bright notes that complement the roasted veggies perfectly. For a kick, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or even a dash of smoked paprika in the seasoning step. This blend of aromatics not only makes your kitchen smell fantastic but also creates a flavor explosion in each bite of the slider.

Perfectly Roasting Your Veggies

Roasting the vegetable mixture at a high temperature is key to achieving that desirable caramelization. You'll want to spread your veggies out on the baking sheet without overcrowding—this ensures even cooking and browning. A good rule of thumb is to place the sheet in the center of the oven and check for doneness around 15 minutes; they should be tender and developing golden edges. If some veggies finish earlier, simply remove them to keep everything perfectly cooked.

Don't be afraid to get creative with roasting! If you're in the mood for a smoky flavor, tossing in a dash of balsamic vinegar or a few drops of liquid smoke before roasting can enhance the veggie smash. If you're short on time, you can prep the vegetables the day before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Simply season and roast them just before your gathering for that freshly roasted taste.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving, your sliders can be anything from mini burger buns to lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Add texture with some crispy lettuce or spicy arugula for a nice contrast against the soft veggie smash. For an added crunch, consider topping with fresh sprouts or pickled onions. These elements not only enhance flavor but also provide a visually appealing presentation.

If you’re looking to make this dish more substantial, consider integrating cheese like feta or goat cheese once the veggies are roasted. It adds creaminess and tang that pairs beautifully with the herbs and garlic. For a vegan alternative, bump up the flavor by incorporating nutritional yeast into the veggie smash for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to tailor the dish to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Herbs

1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Sliders or buns
Condiments of your choice

Instructions

Steps

Prep the Veggies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes.

Season the Mixture

Add the minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the vegetables are well-coated.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast for 20 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the veggies are done, let them cool slightly. Spoon the veggie smash onto your sliders or buns and add any additional toppings or condiments you prefer.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add cheese to the veggie mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Also, serving them with a side of garlic aioli can take these sliders to the next level!

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of the Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the veggie mixture the day before roasting. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, and then simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or for when you're in a time crunch during gatherings.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This not only revives their flavor but can also bring back some of that desirable crispiness.

Ingredient Swaps and Customizations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Options like eggplant, mushrooms, or even broccoli can work beautifully in this recipe. The key is to maintain a balance of textures and flavors, so sticking with a variety of colors will help create that visually appealing dish.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked lentils or black beans to the veggie smash before serving. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also makes for a heartier slider. If you're looking for a strong flavor kick, spicy mustard or a garlic aioli drizzled over the finished sliders can take them to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh vegetables yield the best results, you can use frozen vegetables; just be sure to thaw and drain them before roasting.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead of regular slider buns to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the veggies in advance?

Yes! You can chop the vegetables and mix them with oil and herbs a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you're ready to roast.

→ What condiments pair well with these sliders?

I recommend garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy balsamic glaze for a flavor boost.