Burgers, hot dogs, and brats have been a mainstay of warm weather dining for decades. But it’s time for these summer staples to step aside. We’ve got seven fresh ideas for what to grill at your next backyard barbeque. And once you try these recipes, we suspect you’ll never look at a plain old burger the same way again.
What to Grill for Adventurous Carnivores
Grilled Tuna Burgers with Spicy Mayo
Okay, we realize we’re starting out with a burger. But it’s not beef; it’s tuna – same concept, totally different experience. This recipe from Guy Fieri for the Food Network tops the savory tuna patty with homemade spicy mayo. It’s a one-way ticket to, as Guy says, Flavortown.
Grilled chicken isn’t new, but cooking a whole chicken on the grill? That just might be a fresh take for many of us. The key to a well-grilled chicken is to “spatchcock” the bird, flattening it so that it cooks more evenly throughout. Rub in some smokey spices à la The Modern Proper, and you’re well on your way to a delicious dinner.
Grilled Wedge Salad with Yogurt Blue Cheese Dressing
Lettuce….on the grill? Yes! As It’s a Veg World After All explains, “searing iceberg wedges actually makes them super juicy and tender. “Top the wedge with a creamy blue cheese dressing, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkling of green onions. You’ve got yourself a fresh salad for those warm backyard evenings.
Portobello mushrooms are a plant-based griller’s dream. Rich and savory, they’re equally at home on a bun, in a taco shell, or as a main course all on their own. A quick marinade of balsamic vinegar and fresh rosemary, courtesy of Well Plated, amps up the juiciness and flavor of these stalwart ‘shrooms.
Grilled Fruit Skewers with Spicy Maple Cumin Glaze
Grilled fruit is highly underrated. Something about the heat and flames brings out fruit’s natural sweetness, and this fresh, colorful recipe from Epicurious takes it to the next level, balancing the sweet with a bit of spice. The fruits you use are up to you, but peaches and pineapple are great seasonal options.
Grilled corn is great but basic. Grilled corn wrapped in bacon with jalapenos and cilantro, though? That’s the best kind of extra. You can never go wrong with bacon, and the peppers in this recipe from Blackberry Babe ensure that the sun isn’t the only thing bringing the heat to the party.
Campfires are optional with this s’more calzone recipe from Half Baked Harvest. Marshmallows and chocolate are wrapped in pastry dough, grilled, and dusted with graham cracker crumbles. It’s an elevated alternative to the classic gooey treat, perfect for watching fireflies dance in the moonlight.