Make dinnertime an outdoor adventure with colorful, nutritious kabobs the whole family can help prepare. These veggie and fruit skewers are packed with flavor and perfect for summer grilling. With in-season produce from Virginia farmers markets and plenty of opportunities for kids to get involved, this recipe is a healthy, fun way to spend time together. And, if cooking some nights doesn’t sound like fun, try out a reader-voted favorite family restaurant from our guide.
Why Veggie and Fruit Kabobs Make the Perfect Family Dinner
Kabobs are endlessly customizable and quick to grill, making them ideal for busy parents and picky eaters alike. This meal is also an easy way to introduce kids to new fruits and vegetables—and even spark a little interest in gardening or local farms!
We love this recipe for summer cookouts, weeknight grilling, and even as a snack after a day of screen-free summer fun (explore our favorite ideas here). For some fussier eaters, making each kabob a separate fruit or vegi may help.
Virginia’s Seasonal Produce Picks
Choosing in-season produce for your veggie and fruit kabobs means fresher flavors, better nutrition, and support for local growers. Here are some fruits and veggies that are perfect for grilling in Central Virginia during summer:
- Zucchini – Look for small-to-medium zucchini with glossy green skin and no soft spots.
- Yellow squash
- Bell peppers – Red, orange, and yellow add sweetness and color.
- Cherry tomatoes – Rinse gently and keep whole for easy skewering.
- Peaches – Firm-ripe peaches hold their shape and caramelize beautifully.
- Pineapple – Not local, but delicious and easy for kids to cut with supervision.
- Red onions – Add a pop of color and sweet-savory flavor.
If you’re looking to source ingredients locally, consider visiting one of the area’s pick-your-own farms or farmers markets (see our local farm guide).
Kid-Friendly Kitchen Tasks
Getting children involved in the kitchen builds confidence, encourages healthy eating, and can make mealtime more enjoyable. Here are age-appropriate tasks for this recipe:
Toddlers & Preschoolers:
- Wash produce in a colander
- Sort fruits and veggies by color or type
- Count how many pieces go on each skewer
Elementary-Age Kids:
- Help cut soft items like mushrooms, peaches, or zucchini (with a child-safe knife)
- Thread skewers in a fun pattern
- Mix a marinade with supervision
Teens:
- Slice ingredients with supervision
- Brush on marinade
- Grill kabobs with adult guidance
Looking for more easy family-friendly recipes packed with flavor and produce? Try our build-your-own burrito bowls or honey-garlic chicken with peas!
Simple Recipe for Veggie and Fruit Kabobs
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds or half-moons
- 1 yellow squash, cut same as above
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 ripe peach, pitted and cut into chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
- ½ red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for fruit skewers)
- Salt, pepper, and dried herbs (like oregano or Italian seasoning)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wood, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Wash all produce. Cut vegetables and fruits into bite-sized chunks that are similar in size for even grilling.
- Assemble Kabobs: Alternate veggies and fruits on skewers in a colorful pattern. For picky eaters, let them make their own custom kabob.
- Add Marinade (Optional): Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs. For fruit skewers, brush lightly with honey or syrup.
- Grill: Heat grill to medium-high. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning every few minutes until tender and lightly charred.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and serve with grilled chicken, rice, or a fresh summer salad.
Produce-Picking Tips
- Zucchini & Squash: Choose firm, unblemished skin. Smaller ones are more tender and less watery.
- Peppers: Look for vibrant, heavy peppers with taut skin.
- Peaches: Gently squeeze—ripe peaches give slightly but aren’t mushy.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe but firm cherry tomatoes that won’t fall apart on the grill.
Pro Tip: If kids don’t love a certain veggie, try cutting it in a fun shape using mini cookie cutters or letting them dip grilled pieces in a sauce like ranch, hummus, or yogurt.
Extend the Fun: Make It a Kabob Party!
Turn this into a summer gathering by setting up a DIY kabob station. Provide a variety of fruits and veggies and let everyone build their own. Serve with sides like couscous salad, grilled corn, or watermelon wedges. For dessert, grill extra peaches and top with whipped cream.
Looking for more family ideas? Check out our Guide to Annual Events and our guide to Active Fun with Kids in Charlottesville.