Jamaican Jerk Spiced Vegetables

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I absolutely love creating vibrant, flavorful meals that transport me to warmer climates, and Jamaican Jerk Spiced Vegetables do just that! The bold spices combined with fresh veggies create a dish that bursts with both color and flavor. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, adding a wonderful Caribbean twist to our dinners. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes for a perfect side dish or a light main course. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:08:38.424Z

When experimenting with the exotic spices of Jamaican cuisine, I discovered the vibrant world of jerk seasoning. I added my twist to showcase a medley of fresh vegetables. When you roast these veggies, their natural sweetness perfectly contrasts the spicy, smoky notes of the jerk spices. This harmonious blend makes every bite a delightful experience!

One tip I learned is to marinate the vegetables for at least 15 minutes before roasting. This allows the flavors to develop and infuse more deeply, ensuring that every piece is not just seasoned on the outside but bursting with flavor all the way through. You’ll be reaching for seconds in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant mix of fresh vegetables perfectly spiced
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight option

      

Essential Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the vibrant array of fresh vegetables. Each vegetable plays a critical role: red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness and a beautiful color contrast, while zucchini brings a nice texture. Broccoli florets contribute a slight crunch and absorb the jerk marinade beautifully. Opt for organic vegetables if possible, as they tend to have a more robust flavor and tenderness that shines through in the roasting process.

The jerk marinade is what truly elevates these vegetables from simple roast to a robust dish. Jamaican jerk seasoning, a blend of allspice, thyme, and heat from peppers, brings authenticity and depth. If you can’t find jerk seasoning, a homemade version using ground allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne can suffice in a pinch. Remember, adjusting the amount of jerk seasoning allows you to control the heat level according to your preference.

Roasting Techniques

When roasting the vegetables, it’s crucial to use high heat—400°F (200°C) is optimal. This temperature helps achieve a charred exterior while keeping the interior tender. Be sure to spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding them will lead to steaming instead of roasting. If you notice the veggies browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with foil for the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

Stirring the vegetables halfway through roasting promotes even cooking and caramelization. You should aim for a balance: a nice golden color on the edges and tenderness in every bite. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator, making them a perfect addition to salads or wraps for meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to bring this colorful dish to life:

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets

Jerk Marinade

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will come together to create a truly delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Jerk Spiced Vegetables:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, jerk seasoning, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.

Marinate the Vegetables

Add the sliced vegetables to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the marinated vegetables onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly charred.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve warm, either as a side dish or over rice as a main meal. Enjoy!

Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful colors before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the marinade. You can also substitute seasonal vegetables to keep the recipe fresh throughout the year.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Jerk Spiced Vegetables can shine as either a side or main dish. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. You can also pair them with grilled chicken or shrimp to complement the robustness of the jerk flavors. For a vegetarian option, adding black beans or lentils will create a filling and nutritious dish.

Consider finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors just before serving. Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley can also be a gorgeous garnish, adding both color and an herbal note that plays well with the spices. A side of avocado slices can introduce a creamy texture that balances the heat beautifully.

Tips for Customization

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables in this recipe. Carrots, asparagus, or even eggplant can be wonderful substitutions that will change the flavor profile while still maintaining that vibrant feel. If you're looking to add a spicy kick, consider adding a sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the marinading vegetables for additional heat.

For those following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or opt for tamari, which mimics the flavor without wheat. Additionally, the marinade can be adjusted to fit dietary requirements; coconut aminos is a great soy sauce alternative for those avoiding soy altogether. Always remember to taste the marinade before adding the vegetables; it should be a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can; however, fresh vegetables will give a better texture and flavor.

→ Is jerk seasoning spicy?

Yes, jerk seasoning has a kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetables and no animal products.

→ What can I serve with these jerk vegetables?

They pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even as a filling in wraps or tacos.