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: 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms); 1 head of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 small slider buns; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish; Optional: cheese slices

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Favorites

I love making these Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smashes because they are not only delicious but also incredibly quick to whip up! When I’m looking for a satisfying snack or a light meal, these sliders offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Fresh herbs and roasted veggies combine into a tasty, herbaceous spread that I can pile high on mini buns. The best part? They are very versatile, so you can customize them based on what you have on hand. Can't wait for you to try them!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:49:35.218Z

Creating these Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smashes has been a game changer in my kitchen! I remember the first time I decided to experiment with different vegetables and herbs that I had left over. The result was not only an explosion of flavor but also a colorful feast for the eyes. I love using roasted garlic for its mellow sweetness, which transforms the whole dish.

While making them, I discovered that allowing the veggie mixture to cool slightly before spreading it on the sliders gives it a better texture. It’s incredible how the flavors blend after resting for a bit. Trust me, serving them with a drizzle of olive oil enhances the whole experience. Your friends and family will be begging for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh, herbaceous flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Great for meal-prepping or casual gatherings

Perfecting Your Roasted Veggies

The key to a flavorful veggie smash lies in the roasting process. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) not only cooks the vegetables quickly but also enhances their natural sweetness and richness. Make sure to cut the vegetables into even-sized pieces, about 1-inch, to ensure they cook uniformly. You'll know they're done when they are fork-tender and have developed a slightly caramelized exterior, usually around 20 minutes. If you prefer a bit of char, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Do not underestimate the power of fresh herbs in this recipe. Herbs like oregano and thyme complement the sweetness of the roasted vegetables perfectly. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to replace the dried versions; you'll likely want to double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor.

Customizing Your Sliders

These sliders are incredibly adaptable, making them perfect for using whatever vegetables you have at home. Consider adding roasted eggplant or spinach for a different flavor profile. If you want to introduce a bit of spice, toss in some jalapeños before roasting. Cheese lovers can also experiment with various cheese types, like sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese, each providing a unique taste and texture to your sliders.

To add an appealing crunch to your sliders, consider incorporating a layer of pickled vegetables or a fresh slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette. This adds not just texture but also a refreshing contrast to the herbaceous veggie smash.

Ingredients

Veggie Mixture

2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
1 head of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assemblage

12 small slider buns
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional: cheese slices

Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies and herbs!

Instructions

Roast the Veggies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the mixed vegetables and garlic cloves (unpeeled) with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and golden.

Prepare the Slider Mixture

Once out of the oven, let the garlic cool for a few minutes. Squeeze the garlic from its skin into a bowl and mash it up. Add the roasted veggies to the bowl and mix well.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread the veggie mixture onto the slider buns. Top with fresh herbs and cheese if desired. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy your Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smashes!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables and herbs based on what’s in season or what you have in your refrigerator.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These veggie smash sliders can easily be made ahead of time, making them ideal for meal prepping. After preparing the veggie mixture, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 4 days. If you’re planning to assemble them later, consider keeping the slider buns separate until ready to serve to prevent them from getting soggy.

If you have leftovers, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Pack the veggie mix in a freezer-safe container, and reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you're ready to enjoy. Just remember to toast the buns after reheating to maintain that delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a more complete meal. A zesty dipping sauce, such as a garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt-based sauce, can elevate the sliders, providing an extra layer of flavor that complements the herbs and vegetables.

For a more festive presentation, consider serving these sliders on a large platter with a variety of toppings and dips. This way, guests can customize their sliders according to their preferences. It’s a fun way to engage everyone at gatherings or casual meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained before roasting.

→ How long can these sliders be stored?

They're best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the veggie mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the veggie mixture a day in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving.

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with these sliders?

They pair well with a light salad, potato wedges, or roasted sweet potatoes.