Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to fire up your grill! There’s nothing quite like a juicy, flavorful meal cooked to perfection over an open flame. And let’s be honest, grilled foods are always more enjoyable when shared with friends and family at a backyard barbecue or picnic. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic grilled chicken and ribs to seafood, vegetables, and even desserts, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering roundup. So go ahead, give your grill a workout, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these scrumptious summer dishes!
Classic Grilled Chicken with Lemon Herb Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring a zesty lemon herb marinade that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky BBQ Ribs with Dry Rub
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, smoky, and flavorful ribs slathered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe combines the perfect balance of spices, herbs, and smoke for an unforgettable rib-eating experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (4-5 pounds)
– Dry Rub:
+ 1/2 cup brown sugar
+ 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
+ 2 tablespoons garlic powder
+ 1 tablespoon onion powder
+ 1 teaspoon ground cumin
+ 1 teaspoon salt
+ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– BBQ Sauce:
+ 1 cup ketchup
+ 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
+ 2 tablespoons brown sugar
+ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
+ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with indirect heat).
2. In a small bowl, mix together dry rub ingredients.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply dry rub evenly.
4. Place ribs in smoker or grill, cooking for 4-5 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare BBQ sauce by whisking all ingredients together.
6. After 4-5 hours, slather ribs with BBQ sauce and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (smoker) or 2-3 hours (grill)
Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these skewers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Teriyaki Grilled Salmon with Pineapple Slices
Experience the sweet and savory combination of grilled salmon and caramelized pineapple in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup pineapple slices
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and ginger until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Serve grilled salmon with pineapple slices on top. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Grilled Corn on the Cob
Elevate your grilled corn game with this spicy twist that adds a kick of flavor to every bite. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick summer dinner or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred and tender.
6. Serve warm with a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful and earthy take on the classic patty. By grilling portobello mushrooms, you’ll create a rich, meaty texture that’s perfect for topping with your favorite condiments and fixings.
Ingredients:
– 4 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Grill mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Assemble burgers by placing a mushroom patty on each bun, then add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops
Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Brush both sides of pork chops with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Medley with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer meals with this flavorful and colorful medley of grilled vegetables, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 2 yellow squash, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, warm balsamic glaze by placing the jar in a bowl of hot water (or microwave for 10 seconds).
5. Once vegetables are cooked, brush them with warmed balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Steak Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this classic recipe featuring tender grilled steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and warm flour tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Add steak; marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onions; cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
5. Slice grilled steak against the grain into thin strips.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing sliced steak onto tortillas with peppers and onions; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Herb-Marinated Grilled Lamb Chops
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of lamb with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops, 1 inch thick
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the marinade evenly over both sides of the meat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove lamb from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs: A tropical twist on traditional kabobs, this recipe combines juicy chicken with sweet and tangy flavors of Hawaii.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 onion, cut into wedges
– 1 bell pepper, cut into large chunks
– 1 zucchini, cut into slices
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoked Brisket with Homemade BBQ Sauce
This classic Texas-style brisket recipe is elevated by a rich and tangy homemade BBQ sauce, perfect for slow-cooking to tender perfection. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (10-12 lbs)
– 1 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup homemade BBQ sauce (recipe below)
Homemade BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10-12 hours or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the homemade BBQ sauce all over the brisket.
7. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this indulgent recipe that combines the sweetness of lobster with the savory richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening, grilled lobster tails are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Rinse lobster tails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of the lobster tails with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packets
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and smoky peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 Cajun-style sausages (such as Andouille or Smoked Sausage), sliced
– 2 bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, sausage, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among four large pieces of aluminum foil, creating four packets.
4. Fold foil over filling to create tight packets.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and sausage is cooked through.
6. Serve with tortillas, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet and savory, this Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar recipe is a perfect summer treat that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple slices with melted butter.
4. Place pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each slice.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe brings together the sweetness of bell peppers and the savory flavors of your favorite fillings, all grilled to perfection. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ground beef or turkey, shredded cheese, and/or sliced onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture.
5. Grill bell peppers for 10-12 minutes per side, or until tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Zucchini
Halloumi cheese, known for its salty and creamy flavor, pairs perfectly with the sweetness of grilled zucchini. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick summer dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the zucchinis for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.
5. Grill the halloumi cheese for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve the grilled halloumi with the zucchini slices and garnish with parsley, lemon wedges, and feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool, then slice into strips.
3. Roll out pizza crust and spread with BBQ sauce, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and red onion.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in preheated oven at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling time + baking time)
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and enjoy the flavors of summer! This collection of 18 juicy recipes offers something for everyone. From classic grilled chicken with lemon herb marinade to smoky BBQ ribs, griddled garlic butter shrimp skewers, and sweet and savory pineapple and teriyaki salmon, there’s a dish to satisfy every taste bud. Plus, don’t miss the spicy corn on the cob, meaty portobello mushroom burgers, and even a grilled pizza! Whether you’re in the mood for something simple or indulgent, these recipes are sure to please.
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