Are you firing up the grill? Burgers, hot dogs, maybe some chicken — it’s a classic routine, but let’s be honest, it can get old after a while. Here are some unexpected foods you should be grilling to ditch the same old, same old, and explore beyond burgers.
We’re talking about taking your grill beyond the confines of just meat and exploring a whole new world of flavor. From smoky veggies to sweet surprises, your grill can become a canvas for culinary creativity. So, grab your spatula, dust off the grill grates and get ready to impress your friends and family with these unexpected grilling ideas.
Veggie paradise: From smoky to sweet
Vegetables are no longer just sad sidekicks on the grill. With the right technique, they can be the star of the show. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Grilled halloumi and veggie skewers
Halloumi cheese is a grilling revelation. This firm cheese holds its shape perfectly on the grill, getting a nice sear on the outside while staying melty and delicious inside. Thread halloumi cubes with your favorite grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, onions and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and satisfying skewer. Drizzle with a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar marinade, and get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Smoky chipotle portobellos
Portobello mushrooms are like meaty sponges, perfect for absorbing smoky flavors from the grill. Brush large portobello caps with a store-bought or homemade chipotle sauce marinade and grill them until tender and juicy. Pile them high with your favorite burger fixings like lettuce, tomato, cheese and a dollop of guacamole for a vegetarian burger that’s anything but boring.
Grilled watermelon steaks
Yes, you read that right — watermelon is a surprisingly delightful addition to the grill. Cut thick slices of watermelon, brush them with a light coat of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Grill them for a few minutes per side until they get those beautiful grill marks. The result is a sweet, smoky and refreshing treat that’s perfect for a hot summer day. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for an extra flavor punch.
Getting fancy with fruits
Fruits aren’t just for dessert. They can take on a whole new personality when grilled. Here’s how to add some fruity flair to your grilling repertoire.
Grilled peaches with honeycomb ricotta
Grilled peaches are a summertime staple, but take them to the next level with this simple yet elegant dessert. Grill halved peaches cut-side down until they soften and develop grill marks. Top them with a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese and a drizzle of honey. For an extra touch of luxury, add a piece of honeycomb for a delightful burst of sweetness.
Grilled pineapple with spicy rum glaze
Grilled pineapple is a classic tiki bar staple, but with a little twist, it can be a fun addition to your summer cookout. Cut pineapple rings or spears and grill them until they’re slightly caramelized. Brush them with a glaze made of rum, brown sugar and a touch of chili flakes for a sweet and spicy combination that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Grilled figs with prosciutto and goat cheese
Try grilling figs if you’re feeling adventurous. These little jewels caramelize beautifully on the grill, their sweetness accentuated by salty accompaniments. Grill halved figs cut side down until softened. Wrap them with thin slices of prosciutto and top with a dollop of creamy goat cheese. A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an extra layer of complexity to this surprising yet delicious appetizer.
Seafood sensations
Seafood isn’t just for fancy restaurants. Your backyard grill can be the perfect place to whip up some amazing seafood dishes.
Grilled cedar plank salmon
Cedar plank grilling is a fantastic way to infuse your seafood with a beautiful smoky flavor. Soak a cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Place seasoned salmon fillets on the plank and grill until cooked through. The cedar plank imparts a subtle smoky flavor that complements the salmon perfectly. Serve with a light lemon dill sauce for a complete and elegant meal.
Grilled shrimp skewers with chimichurri sauce
Skewers are a great way to grill shrimp, and chimichurri sauce is the perfect accompaniment. Marinate skewered shrimp in a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and your favorite herbs. Grill until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Serve them with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil and a touch of red pepper flakes for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Grilled Oysters Rockefeller
Oysters Rockefeller might seem intimidating but it’s actually quite doable on the grill. Shuck fresh oysters carefully, reserving the shells, then make a classic Rockefeller topping with chopped spinach, shallot, Pernod, breadcrumbs and melted butter. Spoon the topping onto each oyster and place them back in their shells. Arrange the oysters on a bed of rock salt on a baking sheet preheated on the grill, and grill for a few minutes until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread for a decadent and impressive appetizer.
Sweet treats on the grill
Grilling isn’t just for savory dishes; it also works wonders with sweet treats guaranteed to please both kids and adults. Here are some ideas for taking your desserts to the campfire.
Grilled pound cake with berries
Pound cake takes on a whole new level of flavor when grilled. Cut thick slices of pound cake and grill them for a few minutes per side until they have beautiful grill marks. Top them with a medley of fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for a summer cookout.
Grilled s’mores cones
Take your s’mores game up a notch with grilled cones. Fill ice cream cones with chocolate chips and marshmallows. Wrap them in foil and grill them until the marshmallows are melted and gooey. This fun twist on a classic campfire treat is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Grilled pineapple with rum glaze
Remember the grilled pineapple with rum glaze we mentioned earlier? It can also be served as a delightful dessert. Serve the grilled pineapple slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of the rum glaze for a tropical sundae that’s perfect for a hot summer night.
Embrace the unexpected and grill like a pro
These are just a few ideas to get you started on your journey of unexpected grilling. With a little creativity and an adventurous spirit, you can turn your grill into a culinary playground. So next time you’re planning a summer cookout, ditch the routine and embrace the unexpected. Fire up the grill, explore new flavors and impress your friends and family with your grilling prowess. You might just discover your new favorite summertime dish.
Jennifer Allen is a retired professional chef and long-time writer. Her writing appears in dozens of publications, and she has two cookbooks, “Keto Soup Cookbook” and “Keto Diabetic Cookbook and Meal Plan.” These days, she’s busy in the kitchen, developing recipes for various publications and traveling, and you can find all her best recipes at Cook What You Love.
This article originally appeared on Grill What You Love.