Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash

Name: Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves (optional); Tomato slices (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Ideas

I love creating flavorful and satisfying dishes that are simple and quick to make, and this Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash has become a favorite in my kitchen. With the perfect blend of herbs and roasted vegetables, it brings amazing taste to any meal. It's particularly great for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it's easy to customize based on your favorite vegetables. I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do!

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:57:34.503Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I really wanted to create a delicious and healthy slider option that didn’t compromise on flavor. After trying out different combinations of vegetables and herbs, I discovered that roasting the veggies enhances their natural sweetness and brings out incredible depth of flavor. This method made all the difference in achieving that satisfying taste in every bite.

Another tip I learned is to create a delightful herb-infused spread for the sliders. By mixing creamy ingredients with fresh herbs, I was able to add a layer of richness that pairs beautifully with the roasted smash. It’s this little touch that elevates the entire dish, making it perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A tasty blend of roasted veggies and herbs
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings
Customizable to include your favorite seasonal vegetables

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Eggplant, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes can also work wonderfully and add unique flavors to your dish. Just make sure any veggies you choose can withstand roasting, as firmer vegetables tend to maintain their shape and texture better during the cooking process.

To achieve the best texture, consider cutting your vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly—smaller pieces will roast faster, so aim for sizes around half an inch. If you find some pieces are browning too quickly, simply move them to the outer edges of the baking sheet where they will receive less direct heat.

Perfecting the Herb Spread

The herb spread is a crucial element that adds creaminess and flavor to your sliders. Using both cream cheese and Greek yogurt contributes not only to the rich texture but also balances the tanginess of the yogurt with the smoothness of the cream cheese. For an added kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the mix.

Feel free to customize the herbs according to your taste preferences. Fresh dill or basil can easily replace parsley and chives. Just remember that fresh herbs deliver a more vibrant flavor compared to dried ones, so adjust the quantities accordingly—using about three times as much fresh herb compared to dried.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the smashed veggies and herb spread separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the veggies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through while keeping their texture intact. The herb spread can also be served cold and makes for a delightful dip for crackers or veggie sticks.

For gatherings, consider turning the smashed veggies into a dip instead of sliders. Just serve them with pita chips or sliced baguette alongside the herb spread for a fantastic appetizer. You could also mix the veggies with some quinoa or roasted grains to create a hearty salad, making it a perfect versatile dish that suits various occasions.

Ingredients

For the Smash

2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Herb Spread

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

For Assembly

4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves (optional)
Tomato slices (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Veggies

Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Make the Herb Spread

While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the herb spread. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and well-combined.

Smash the Veggies

Once the vegetables are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes. Next, using a fork or potato masher, gently smash the veggies together to combine the flavors.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a generous amount of the herb mixture on each slider bun. Top with smashed veggies, add lettuce and tomato if desired, and close the bun. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand or prefer! Seasonal veggies like asparagus and radishes can add a nice touch.

Flavor Boosting Tips

To enhance the overall flavor profile of your Easy Slider Garlic Herb Veggie Smash, marinate your mixed vegetables with olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors more effectively. You can even experiment with different spice blends, such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning, to elevate the dish further.

Additionally, after smashing your veggies, consider mixing in a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy depth that complements the herb spread beautifully. This is especially useful if you’ve chosen sweeter veggies like bell peppers or carrots, as it helps to balance the sweetness and adds complexity.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for a dairy-free version of this recipe, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from cashews or silken tofu blended until smooth. Use dairy-free yogurt or even tahini for the herb spread to maintain a creamy texture while keeping it vegan-friendly.

For a gluten-free option, be sure to select gluten-free slider buns or even lettuce wraps for a fresh take on this recipe. This way, you not only cater to gluten-free diets but also lighten the meal, making it a refreshing choice for hot days or health-conscious gatherings.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs. For larger gatherings, double the vegetable amounts and use a full block of cream cheese to ensure there's enough herb spread for everyone. Just remember to use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets to ensure the veggies roast evenly without overcrowding.

When making smaller batches, consider saving leftover herb spread for other meals throughout the week. It pairs well with grilled meats, as a sandwich spread, or even drizzled over baked potatoes, maximizing your culinary creations while minimizing waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the cream cheese and Greek yogurt with vegan alternatives, and use your favorite vegan buns.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders go wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing coleslaw.

→ Can I prepare the herb spread in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the herb spread a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for optimal flavor.

→ What kind of buns work best?

Any slider buns will work well, but I recommend whole grain or brioche for added flavor and texture.