Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Juicy, meaty portobello mushrooms marinated in a savory blend of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection. A fantastic vegetarian main course or a hearty side dish ready in under an hour.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Mushrooms (5 minutes)
- b.Gently wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel. Avoid rinsing them under water, as they are very porous and can become waterlogged.
- c.Carefully snap off the tough stems. The stems can be chopped and saved for stocks, soups, or stir-fries.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Mushrooms (35 minutes)
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- c.Place the mushroom caps in a shallow dish or a large zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring both sides are coated.
- d.Let the mushrooms marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. Flip them halfway through to ensure even flavor absorption.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the Mushrooms (10 minutes)
- b.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- c.Remove the mushrooms from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Reserve the leftover marinade.
- d.Place the mushrooms on the grill, gill-side down first. Grill for 4-6 minutes, until they begin to soften and develop grill marks.
- e.Flip the mushrooms, brush with any remaining marinade, and grill for another 4-6 minutes on the second side, until tender and cooked through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve (1 minute)
- b.Transfer the grilled mushrooms to a serving platter.
- c.Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately as a main, side, or on a burger bun.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For deeper flavor, gently score the top of the mushroom caps in a crisscross pattern before marinating. This allows the marinade to penetrate more deeply.
- 2Don't marinate the mushrooms for more than an hour at room temperature, as the vinegar can start to break down their texture and make them mushy.
- 3If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can cook these in a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat, or roast them in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
- 4These mushrooms are the perfect size and texture for a vegetarian burger. Serve them on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite aioli.
- 5For a cheesy twist, top the mushrooms with a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese during the last minute of grilling. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
- 6Leftover grilled mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are delicious sliced and added to salads, wraps, or pasta dishes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a smoky or spicy kick.
HerbHerb
Instead of dried thyme, use 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or oregano for a different aromatic profile.
StuffedStuffed
After grilling, fill the mushroom caps with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then broil for 2-3 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
SauceSauce
For a creamier finish, whisk 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the marinade. It adds a tangy depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Meat Substitute
With their meaty texture and savory 'umami' flavor, portobello mushrooms are a satisfying and low-calorie alternative to red meat, supporting plant-based diets and weight management.
Rich in B Vitamins
Portobellos are a good source of B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, which are essential for converting food into energy, supporting brain function, and maintaining healthy skin.
Supports Immune Function
Mushrooms contain powerful antioxidants, particularly selenium and ergothioneine, which help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress and support a robust immune system.
Promotes Heart Health
As a cholesterol-free food rich in potassium, portobello mushrooms can help manage blood pressure. The marinade uses heart-healthy olive oil, further contributing to cardiovascular wellness.
Frequently asked questions
Each grilled portobello mushroom contains approximately 120-140 calories, primarily from the olive oil in the marinade. They are a low-calorie option compared to traditional meat patties.