The last hurrah of summer should be a party that centers around the grill. Labor Day is the perfect excuse to throw on more than the usual burgers and hot dogs. Shrimp skewers, chicken wings, ribs and vegetables all take on big flavor when cooked over high heat. These recipes keep things simple while giving you plenty of variety to feed a crowd. Fire up the grill and send summer out the way it deserves.
Grilled Hummus Berry Flatbread
A flatbread like this is proof that the grill isn’t just for meat. Sweet corn gets a light char, fresh berries add brightness and a roasted garlic parsley pesto brings everything together. It’s colorful, easy to prep and cuts cleanly into pieces which makes it just as good for passing around as it is for a quick dinner.
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Grilled Green Beans
Grilled green beans are an easy way to get vegetables on the table without heating up the kitchen. They cook fast, keep a crisp bite and take on just enough char to balance the simple garlic soy glaze. They’re ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish and can sit alongside any grilled protein or main dish.
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Grilled Potato Wedges
Potatoes hold up well on the grill and wedges are one of the easiest ways to cook them. A brush of oil and a few spices are all they need before they hit the grates. The outside crisps up while the inside turns fluffy and tender which makes them feel like oversized steak fries that pair with anything from ribs to chicken.
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Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad
Grilled vegetables glazed with a tart cherry balsamic reduction are combined with orzo for a pasta salad that works hot or cold. The vegetables hold their texture and the pasta soaks up the tangy dressing which makes every bite bold and fresh. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also works well as a side dish for larger spreads.
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Citrus Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp cook quickly on the grill and absorb flavor easily which makes them perfect for skewers. A citrus marinade keeps them tender while brushing with extra herbs at the end builds layers of flavor. They’re light but satisfying and can be served over rice or with grilled vegetables for a full meal.
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Grilled BBQ Short Ribs
Short ribs take on bold flavor when cooked low and slow over the grill. A dry rub seasons the meat deeply before a final brush of barbecue sauce adds a sticky glaze. They’re meaty, tender and work well served with something fresh like grilled pineapple salsa to cut through the richness.
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Grilled Scallop Skewers
Scallops grill in minutes and hold their shape well on skewers. A fresh tomatillo plum salsa on top adds contrast with acidity and sweetness. This is a dish that feels special without being complicated and is easy to scale up for a larger crowd.
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Grilled Stuffed Avocados
Halved avocados char lightly on the grill and get filled with marinated steak, red peppers, grilled corn and scallions. The creamy avocado balances the rich filling and a side of rice rounds it out into a complete meal. It’s hearty, colorful and easy to prepare ahead.
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Harissa Grilled Pork Chops
Pork chops take well to the heat of harissa and develop a flavorful crust when grilled. The spice pairs perfectly with juicy peaches and fresh tomatoes which keeps the plate balanced. It’s a simple way to bring bold flavor to the table without a lot of prep time.
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Grilled Venison Backstrap
Venison backstrap benefits from an overnight marinade that keeps the meat tender and flavorful. Grilling it the next day locks in the juices and brings out the richness of the meat. When sliced thin it stays tender and works well served alongside vegetables or potatoes.
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Beef Kafta
Ground beef mixed with herbs and spices gets shaped onto skewers and grilled until charred on the outside and juicy inside. Kafta is traditionally served with rice, salad and hummus but also works well tucked into pita. It’s easy to prepare and holds up well on the grill for gatherings.
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Smoky Grilled Apricot Lamb Kebabs
Lamb kebabs threaded with dried apricots cook quickly and bring both sweet and savory notes to the plate. The grill adds depth to the meat while the fruit softens and caramelizes slightly. This combination makes for an easy weeknight dinner that still feels special.
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Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter
Flank steak is lean but grills quickly which makes it a great choice for busy nights. A simple five-ingredient chile butter melts over the top and adds a spicy kick with a hint of sweetness. It’s ready in about 20 minutes and slices easily for serving.
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Grilled Chile Lime Chicken
Chicken takes on bold flavor with a marinade of lime juice, chile and sea salt. Grilling keeps the meat juicy and builds a nice char that pairs well with the bright citrus. It’s versatile enough to serve with rice, vegetables or salad depending on the meal.
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Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings
Chicken wings crisp up beautifully on the grill and a mango-chipotle glaze brings a mix of sweet and smoky heat. They’re sticky, flavorful and made for sharing which makes them a crowd favorite at any cookout.
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Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Corn ribs cut from the cob curl as they grill and soak up smoky flavor. Brushed with crema, cheese and spices they deliver the same flavor as Mexican street corn but in a fun, handheld version. They cook fast and disappear even faster from the platter.
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Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Chicken breasts marinate until tender then grill to perfection before being topped with melted cheese and fresh tomato bruschetta. Garlic and basil highlight the topping which makes each bite bold and fresh. It’s a hearty option that brings together classic flavors in a simple way.
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