6. Grilled Watermelon
If you haven’t tried grilled watermelon yet, you’re in for a treat! This sweet and juicy fruit takes on a whole new flavor when grilled. The heat caramelizes the sugars, creating a deliciously smoky taste that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.
To prepare, cut your watermelon into thick slices, about an inch wide. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the watermelon slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see nice grill marks and the fruit is slightly softened. Serve it drizzled with balsamic reduction or sprinkle it with feta cheese and mint for an impressive summer salad.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer delight. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make!
- Start by soaking the corn, husks and all, in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents the husks from burning and helps steam the corn while it grills.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the soaked corn directly on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender.
- Once done, slather it with butter and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, like chili powder, lime juice, or even Parmesan cheese.
8. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your summer cookouts. The key is to marinate the shrimp beforehand to infuse them with flavor.
For the marinade, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs (like parsley or cilantro). Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for about 30 minutes. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, and grill over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty finish!
9. Grilled Avocado
Grilled avocado is one of the most underrated grilled foods. It adds a creamy, smoky element to your meals that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats into your summer diet.
To grill avocado, slice them in half and remove the pit. Brush the flesh lightly with olive oil and place them on a hot grill, cut side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks. The grilled avocado can be served as a side dish, in salads, or as a delicious topping for grilled meats.
10. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a fantastic dessert that brings a tropical flair to your summer gatherings. The heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, enhancing its sweetness and flavor.
Cut fresh pineapple into thick slices or wedges. You can marinate it in a mixture of lime juice and brown sugar for additional sweetness. Grill the pineapple slices over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. Serve it alone, or top it with vanilla ice cream for a delicious summer treat!
11. Grilled Flatbreads
Grilled flatbreads are a versatile and delicious option for summer grilling. They can be used as a base for pizzas, served as a side, or even wrapped around your favorite grilled meats and veggies.
You can make your own flatbreads by mixing flour, water, yeast, and salt, then rolling them out into thin rounds. Preheat your grill and cook the flatbreads for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re puffed and have grill marks. Top them with fresh herbs, cheese, or your favorite toppings while they’re still warm.
12. Grilled Peaches
For a simple yet sophisticated summer dessert, try grilled peaches. Their natural sweetness intensifies when grilled, making them a perfect ending to your summer meals.
Cut ripe peaches in half and remove the pit. Brush the cut sides with a little olive oil or melted butter and place them cut-side down on a hot grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see grill marks and the peaches are slightly softened. Serve them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzled with honey for an indulgent treat.
13. Grilled Sausages
Grilled sausages are a summer staple that can please any crowd. Whether you prefer classic bratwurst, spicy Italian, or chicken sausages, grilling them adds a wonderful smoky flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the sausages directly on the grate. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through. Serve them in toasted buns with your favorite toppings like sautéed onions, peppers, and mustard.
14. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash are perfect for adding some veggies to your barbecue spread. They’re quick to cook and pair well with a variety of dishes.
Slice zucchini and squash into thick rounds or spears, and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until they’re tender and have nice grill marks. Serve them as a side dish or toss them into a summer salad for extra flavor and texture.
15. Grilled Eggplant
Last but not least, grilled eggplant is a delicious and hearty addition to your summer grilling repertoire. Its meaty texture stands up beautifully to the grill, making it perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Slice eggplant into rounds or lengthwise and sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. Brush it with olive oil and grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until it’s tender and charred. Serve it as a side dish, in sandwiches, or drizzled with a tahini sauce for a Middle Eastern twist.
Conclusion
This summer, fire up your grill and experiment with these 15 grilled things that will elevate your outdoor cooking game. From vibrant vegetables to sweet fruits and savory proteins, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your friends and family, embrace the flavors of summer, and create memorable meals that will keep you coming back for more. Happy grilling!
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Bonus Grilled Treats
If you’re looking to expand your grilling horizons, here are a few bonus grilled treats that you absolutely need to try this summer!
16. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet, juicy corn on the cob is a classic summer side that’s even better when grilled. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars, resulting in a smoky, flavorful bite.
To grill corn on the cob, soak the cobs in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Then, place them on a hot grill, turning occasionally for about 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and charred. Serve with butter, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a delicious twist.
17. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a tropical delight that adds a sweet, tangy flavor to your summer barbecue. It’s perfect as a dessert or as a topping for burgers and tacos.
Cut fresh pineapple into thick slices and brush with a bit of honey or brown sugar. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized and heated through. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a topping for your favorite grilled meats.
18. Grilled Tofu
For a plant-based protein option, grilled tofu is a fantastic choice. When marinated and grilled, it absorbs flavors beautifully and becomes a delicious addition to salads and wraps.
Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice it into thick slabs. Marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve it on skewers with vegetables for a colorful kabob.
19. Grilled Watermelon
Grilled watermelon might sound unusual, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked! The heat enhances its natural sweetness and creates an amazing texture.
Cut watermelon into thick wedges and brush lightly with olive oil. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or incorporate it into a salad with feta cheese and fresh mint.
20. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and easy option for your summer grilling. They cook in just a few minutes and can be flavored in numerous ways.
Thread peeled and deveined shrimp onto skewers, marinate in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for about 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Serve with a side of garlic butter or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion
This summer, fire up your grill and experiment with these 20 grilled things that will elevate your outdoor cooking game. From vibrant vegetables to sweet fruits and savory proteins, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your friends and family, embrace the flavors of summer, and create memorable meals that will keep you coming back for more. Happy grilling!
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