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 mixed bell peppers, diced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 cup mushrooms, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Optional: sliced cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Inspiration

I love making these Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smashes when I want something quick yet flavorful. The combination of fresh herbs and roasted vegetables creates a delightful medley that is perfect for any meal. Each bite bursts with the savory goodness of garlic, making these sliders not just a dish, but a heartfelt experience. With simple ingredients and an effortless cooking process, I find myself reaching for this recipe again and again, whether for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:41:35.549Z

When experimenting with different slider recipes, I stumbled upon the perfect mix of roasted veggies and herbs, and that’s how my Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash was born. The unique blend of flavors not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a hearty, wholesome option for your meal. Roasting the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness, while the garlic brings everything together.

I recommend making extra veggie smash to serve as a side dish or a topping for salads. It’s incredibly versatile! Plus, you can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, allowing for endless variations while keeping the prep simple and stress-free.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh herb flavors and roasted garlic goodness
Quick to prepare – perfect for busy weeknights
A healthier alternative to traditional sliders

Understanding the Ingredients

The vibrant combination of mixed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile of these sliders. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, which supports immune health. Zucchini provides hydration and fiber, while mushrooms pack a punch of umami flavor along with essential B vitamins. Using a variety of bell peppers will give your sliders a range of sweetness and slight bitterness, creating a well-rounded flavor that makes each bite exciting.

Garlic is the star flavor in this recipe, contributing both aroma and savory depth. When roasted, garlic caramelizes, mellowing its sharpness and transforming it into a sweet, nutty delight. Don’t rush the roasting process; ensure the garlic is mixed well with the other veggies to maximize its infusion into the mixture. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil not only add a fragrance but also provide fresh notes that balance the richness of the roasted vegetables.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

To achieve truly caramelized vegetables, it's essential to spread them out evenly on your baking sheet. If the veggies are crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in a mushy texture instead of a crispy one. Stir the veggies halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and develop those golden edges, which adds complexity to both flavor and mouthfeel. Keep an eye on the timer; you’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and starting to show some browning.

If you want to add some extra layers of flavor, consider marinating the diced veggies in the olive oil, garlic, and herbs for about 15-30 minutes before roasting. This step enhances the taste and ensures every bite is infused with the herbal garlic notes. If you're looking to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free, simply omit the cheese topping or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious veggie sliders:

Ingredients

1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup mushrooms, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Optional: sliced cheese for topping

Make sure to have everything prepped before you get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your tasty sliders:

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss the mixture to ensure all the vegetables are well-coated.

Roast the Veggies

Spread the vegetable mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Add Herbs and Assemble

Once the veggies are done, remove them from the oven and stir in the chopped parsley and basil. Toast the slider buns in the oven for a few minutes if desired. Spoon the veggie mixture onto each bun and top with cheese if using.

Serve warm and enjoy your sliders!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the veggies based on the season or your preferences. This recipe is also great for meal prep
just store the veggie smash in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smashes can be served warm as a hearty snack or a main course option. Pair them with a crisp salad or a side of sweet potato fries for an invigorating twist. To elevate these sliders further, consider adding sliced avocados or homemade hummus for a creamy texture that balances the roasted veggies' flavors.

If you’re hosting friends, create a slider bar by offering various toppings like fresh greens, spicy aioli, or different cheeses to customize their sliders. This adds an interactive element to your gathering, letting everyone craft their perfect bite. You could also serve the slider filling on a bed of quinoa or lettuce for a fun, low-carb option!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover veggie mixture can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This method maintains the flavors and keeps the veggies from getting too mushy. Alternatively, you can heat them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted veggie mixture. Label and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat. Freezing preserves the flavors, but be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing, so a quick sauté might help revive some crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I make these sliders gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns.

→ Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add cooked ground turkey or chicken for extra protein.

→ What other herbs work well in this recipe?

Thyme, rosemary, or oregano would also make great additions to enhance the flavor.