Veggie-Q: A Guide to Vegetarian BBQ & Delicious Meatless Options

From The Smoker October 13, 2025
Pitmaster holds grilled carrot slice up to camera.
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When most folks think BBQ, they picture smoky ribs and pulled pork. But here’s the truth: BBQ is all about flavor, fellowship, and good times, and that means there’s plenty of room at the table for vegetarian BBQ. Whether you’re vegetarian or flexitarian, we’ve got tips and meatless grilling recipes to make your next backyard BBQ downright delicious.



Man holding spoon scoops out spoonful of Smoked Macaroni and Cheese from dish.

Why Go Veggie-Q? (Because Flavor Doesn’t Play Favorites)

There’s a lot to love about BBQ meat, but it’s not the only way to infuse that wood-fired flavor into your next meal. Fruits and vegetables go the extra mile when it comes to absorbing that signature smoke and it helps they’re good for you too. These three reasons to go Veggie-Q put it quite simply:

  • Flavor First: Grilled veggies soak up that smoky goodness like a sponge.
  • Inclusive Eating: There’s something for everyone on the table.
  • Fresh & Fun: Fruits and veggies bring color and creativity to your spread.

If you’ve never tried plant-based BBQ ideas, now’s the time to fire up that pit.


Blue bowl filled with Sonny's BBQ Salad, without meat.

Sonny’s Meatless Options (Straight from Our Pit to Your Plate)

You don’t have to skip the Pit if you’re looking for vegetarian options. Here are a few of our favorites:

Explore more Sonny’s BBQ vegetarian options fresh from our menu:


Platter of Honey Glazed Brown Sugar Carrots sits on cutting board.

Recipes That’ll Make You Want to Eat Your Veggies

Ready to fire up the grill? Try these Sonny’s-approved meatless BBQ recipes:


Fire Up That Pit: Best Practices for Grilling Fruits & Vegetables

Don’t let that grill intimidate you, take these five extra steps and you’ll have perfect vegetarian BBQ, everytime.

  1. Prep Like a Pitmaster: Marinate veggies for extra flavor and moisture.
  2. Keep It Together: Use skewers or a grill basket for smaller pieces.
  3. Heat Matters: High heat for quick sear, medium for even cooking.
  4. Flavor Boost: Brush with Sweet BBQ Sauce while grilling for that signature Sonny’s taste.
  5. Fruit Favorites: Pineapple, peaches, and even watermelon caramelize beautifully over fire.

These grilled veggies tips will make your next cookout unforgettable.


Bowl of Sonny's Smokin' Caesar, without any meat, sits on table.

Vegetarian BBQ for Everyone at the Table

At Sonny’s, we know BBQ is about bringing folks together. And yes, that includes everyone, meat lovers and veggie fans alike. So next time you fire up the grill, give these vegetarian BBQ recipes a try. Or, stop in to your nearest Sonny’s and let us do the preparin’. We’ve got the flavor and the fresh ingredients. You can just get to makin’ the memories.

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