Grilled or baked vegetables are easy to prepare and provide a good healthy meal. Grilling vegetables is a quick and easy way to add variety to a meal, whether it’s roasted in the oven, on the stovetop, or on a grill.

Many of the vegetables are delicious and simple, without any seasoning. That’s especially true for those of us who enjoy the taste of raw or steamed vegetables. Slow roasted vegetables add a different texture and enhance flavor, especially milder foods like cauliflower or a little pumpkin.

Salt and pepper can be added to any vegetable to enhance the flavor. However, with many low sodium diets, we need to find other ways to improve the taste. A great way to add flavor without compromising nutritional value is to add herbs while the vegetables are cooking.

Here are some herbs and seasonings that I have found good additions to roasted vegetables.

1. Garlic – a widely used herb and will complement many vegetables if used in moderation. A pinch of garlic is especially good for roasted zucchini or other squash.

2. Basil – an aromatic green leaf, a member of the mint family. Basil makes a great addition to any tomato dish and works well with roasted tomatoes.

3. Celery seed, ground or whole, has a strong celery flavor. Too much can create a “spicy” spicy effect. Celery seed is good on its own or in combination with other herbs.

4. Marjoram – grayish green herb of the mint family, similar in flavor to oregano but milder. While we enjoy oregano in foods like spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna, it can be too strong for vegetables. The marjoram will give a similar flavor without being too strong.

5. Parsley – delicate sweet taste. Chopped fresh parsley brings a plate of roasted vegetables to life. Adding parsley to vegetables while they cook brings out the flavor of this herb. Save a few sprigs of fresh parsley to decorate the plate.

6. Rosemary – very aromatic leaf similar to pine needles, strong flavor. Rosemary has a very strong and distinctive flavor; you’ll want to use it sparingly at first.

7. Chili powder: chili powder is a mixture of cumin, chili, oregano, and allspice. You may be surprised to see this on a list of seasonings for vegetables. If your family enjoys spicier foods, consider sprinkling some chili powder over the vegetables just before serving.

One word of caution: use herbs and seasonings sparingly to bring out the true flavor of the vegetables. As you cook more with herbs, you will determine what flavors your family enjoys and learn to use more or less accordingly.

Grilled and roasted vegetables are easy to prepare, nutritious, and offer fantastic variety for an otherwise boring meal. I hope you will join me in trying new ways to prepare your favorite foods and use herbs and spices.