Ready to fire up the grill and kick off the summer with some mouthwatering dishes? Look no further! In this article, you’ll discover a tantalizing collection of 10 must-try grilling recipes that will take your backyard cookouts to the next level. From juicy grilled burgers dripping with cheese to flavorful marinated vegetables skewers, each recipe is designed to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will make this summer one to remember!
1. Grilled Chicken Tacos
Marinating the chicken
To make delicious grilled chicken tacos, marinating the chicken is a crucial step. Start by preparing a marinade using ingredients like lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and then refrigerate it for at least one hour, or even overnight for a more intense flavor.
Preparing the taco fillings
While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the taco fillings. Chop fresh vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce, to add a crisp and refreshing element to your tacos. You can also create a flavorful salsa by combining diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t forget to grate some cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for added creaminess.
Grilling the chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to occasionally baste the chicken with the leftover marinade to enhance the flavors.
Assembling the tacos
With the chicken cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble the tacos. Warm up some corn or flour tortillas on the grill or stovetop. Place a few slices of grilled chicken onto the tortilla, and then add your desired fillings, such as salsa, vegetables, and cheese. Finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve the grilled chicken tacos hot and enjoy!
2. Barbecue Ribs
Preparing the ribs for grilling
To create mouthwatering barbecue ribs, you need to start by preparing the ribs themselves. Begin by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs using a sharp knife or your fingers. This will help the marinade penetrate the meat and ensure a tender and flavorful result. Next, season the ribs generously with a dry rub made from a combination of spices like brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Making the barbecue sauce
While the ribs are getting ready, it’s time to make a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. Simmer the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preferences.
Grilling the ribs
Once the ribs have been seasoned and the barbecue sauce is simmering, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat the grill to low heat, around 225°F (107°C), and place the ribs bone-side down. Slowly cook the ribs for about 2-3 hours, making sure to maintain a constant low heat. This slow cooking process will result in tender and juicy ribs.
Basting the ribs with sauce
About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, begin basting them with the prepared barbecue sauce. Use a brush to evenly coat the ribs with the sauce, and continue to do so every 10 minutes until they’re fully cooked. This will add a caramelized glaze and enhance the flavors of the ribs. Just be careful not to apply the sauce too early, as it may burn due to the sugar content.
Finishing and serving
Once the ribs are fully cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier final product. Cut the ribs between the bones into individual servings and serve them with additional barbecue sauce on the side. Pair the barbecue ribs with some coleslaw or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
3. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Choosing the vegetables
Grilled vegetable skewers offer a delicious and healthy option for summer grilling. When choosing vegetables for skewers, opt for a variety of colors and textures. Some great choices include bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. These vegetables not only add vibrant colors but also offer a range of flavors when grilled.
Preparing the marinade
To infuse the vegetables with flavor, prepare a simple marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs such as oregano and thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk the marinade until well combined. This marinade will help enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and provide them with a hint of herbaceousness.
Assembling the skewers
Once the marinade is ready, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Cut the vegetables into evenly sized pieces, ensuring they are large enough to stay secure on the skewers while grilling. Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between different colors and textures for an appealing presentation. Leave some space between each vegetable to ensure they cook evenly.
Grilling the skewers
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the vegetable skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender with a slight char. Grilled vegetable skewers offer a versatile and tasty side dish to accompany various grilled meats or can even be enjoyed as a main course for vegetarians.
4. Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Marinating the shrimp and pineapple
Grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. To prepare these skewers, start by marinating the shrimp and pineapple separately. For the shrimp, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. For the pineapple, you can simply brush it with a mixture of honey and lime juice.
Assembling the skewers
Once the shrimp and pineapple are marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread a piece of marinated pineapple onto a skewer, followed by a shrimp, and continue alternating until the skewer is full. This combination creates a perfect harmony of flavors, with the sweetness of the pineapple complementing the savory shrimp.
Grilling the skewers
Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. The pineapple will also develop a lovely caramelized char on the grill, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Serving with a dipping sauce
To elevate the flavors of the grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers, serve them with a delicious dipping sauce. A popular option is a sweet and tangy Thai-inspired sauce made from a combination of soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sesame oil. This dipping sauce balances the flavors of the skewers and adds an extra layer of tastiness.
5. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Marinating the steak
Grilled steak with chimichurri sauce is a classic and mouthwatering combination. Begin by marinating the steak to infuse it with flavor and enhance its tenderness. Prepare a marinade using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs like parsley and oregano, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Coat the steak with the marinade, cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
Making the chimichurri sauce
While the steak is marinating, you can prepare the vibrant and tangy chimichurri sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Blend until the ingredients are well combined but still slightly chunky. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Grilling the steak
After the steak has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred internal temperature.
Serving with chimichurri sauce
Once the steak is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent steak. After resting, slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness and serve it with a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce. The bright and herbaceous flavors of the sauce perfectly complement the rich and juicy grilled steak.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Preparing the corn
Grilled corn on the cob is a popular summer side dish known for its smoky and sweet flavors. To prepare the corn, remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk. If desired, you can soak the corn in water for 10-15 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out.
Grilling the corn
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent charring. The corn should develop a nice char and become tender.
Serving with butter and seasonings
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Spread a generous amount of softened butter over the corn, allowing it to melt and coat the kernels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, or add a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings such as chili powder, paprika, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost. Serve the grilled corn on the cob hot and enjoy the smoky sweetness of summer.
7. Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Marinating the salmon
Grilled salmon with lemon dill sauce is an elegant and flavorful dish that highlights the natural richness of salmon. To marinate the salmon, prepare a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Making the lemon dill sauce
While the salmon is marinating, prepare the tangy and refreshing lemon dill sauce. In a bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, fresh dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, and taste to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. This creamy and herbaceous sauce pairs perfectly with the grilled salmon.
Grilling the salmon
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the grill. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon to ensure it remains moist and tender.
Serving with lemon dill sauce
Once the salmon is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist final result. Serve the grilled salmon hot, drizzled with the lemon dill sauce. The combination of the smoky grilled flavors with the zesty and herbaceous sauce creates a delightful harmony of tastes.
8. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Preparing the portobello mushrooms
Grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a fantastic vegetarian option that provides a meaty and flavorful bite. Start by cleaning the portobello mushrooms. Using a damp cloth or paper towel, gently wipe off any dirt or debris from the mushrooms. Remove the stems if desired, and use a spoon to scrape out the gills on the underside of the cap. This step helps prevent the mushrooms from becoming too watery when grilled.
Marinating the mushrooms
To add depth of flavor to the portobello mushrooms, marinate them in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. Coat the mushrooms in the marinade and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb.
Grilling the mushrooms
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated mushrooms, gill-side down, on the grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. The mushrooms should become tender and display beautiful grill marks.
Assembling the burgers with toppings
Once the mushrooms are grilled, it’s time to assemble the burgers. Place a grilled portobello mushroom on a bun or a bed of greens. Add your favorite toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, red onions, avocado, lettuce, and cheese. Don’t forget to spread some sauce or condiments, like mayo or mustard, to enhance the flavors. Enjoy the hearty and satisfying grilled portobello mushroom burger as a delicious alternative to meat-based burgers.
9. Grilled Watermelon Salad
Grilling the watermelon
Grilling watermelon might sound unconventional, but it adds a delightful smoky sweetness to a refreshing summer salad. Preheat the grill to high heat. Slice the watermelon into thick wedges or rounds, leaving the rind intact for easier grilling. Lightly oil the grates, then place the watermelon slices on the grill. Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks form and the watermelon develops a slightly caramelized flavor.
Preparing the salad ingredients
While the watermelon is grilling, gather and prepare the other salad ingredients. Wash and dry a variety of fresh greens, such as arugula or mixed greens, to form the base of the salad. Chop some fresh mint leaves, crumble feta cheese, and dice a cucumber. These ingredients will provide a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the grilled watermelon.
Assembling the salad
Once the grilled watermelon has cooled, remove the rind and cut it into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the grilled watermelon, fresh greens, chopped mint, crumbled feta cheese, and diced cucumber. Gently toss the ingredients together to evenly distribute the flavors and textures.
Dressing the salad
To elevate the flavors of the grilled watermelon salad, prepare a simple dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again to evenly coat the ingredients. The combination of the smoky sweetness from the grilled watermelon, the freshness of the greens and mint, and the tanginess of the feta cheese creates a beautifully balanced summer salad.
10. Grilled Pizza
Preparing the dough
Grilled pizza offers a unique twist on a classic favorite. Begin by preparing the pizza dough. You can use pre-made dough from the grocery store or make your own from scratch. Roll out the dough into thin rounds or rectangles, ensuring they are of an even thickness for even cooking on the grill.
Prepping the toppings
While the dough is resting or proofing, prepare your favorite pizza toppings. You can go for a traditional Margherita with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Alternatively, you can get creative and experiment with different combinations of ingredients, such as grilled vegetables, pepperoni, mushrooms, pineapple, or even BBQ sauce for a unique twist.
Grilling the pizza
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates and carefully place the prepared pizza dough onto the hot grill. Cook the dough for a few minutes on one side until grill marks appear and the dough starts to puff up. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the dough over and cook the other side for another few minutes.
Serving the grilled pizza
Once the dough is grilled on both sides, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter or cutting board. Immediately add the desired toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, and any additional ingredients you’ve prepared. Return the topped pizza to the grill, lower the heat, and close the lid. Cook for a few more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through.
Serve the grilled pizza hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or oregano, and enjoy the smoky flavors and crispy texture that grilling imparts. Grilled pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a homemade pie with a unique twist.
In conclusion, these ten must-try grilling recipes for summer offer a wide range of flavors and options for every palate. From mouthwatering grilled chicken tacos and barbecue ribs to delectable grilled vegetable skewers and shrimp pineapple skewers, these recipes will elevate your summer grilling game. Don’t forget to try the succulent grilled steak with chimichurri sauce, smoky grilled corn on the cob, and flavorful grilled salmon with lemon dill sauce. For vegetarian options, the grilled portobello mushroom burgers and grilled watermelon salad provide incredible flavors and textures. Lastly, embrace creativity with a twist by grilling pizzas topped with your favorite ingredients. So fire up the grill, gather your family and friends, and enjoy the deliciousness of summer with these delightful grilling recipes.