Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! The sizzle of meat, the aroma of spices, and the laughter of friends set the perfect scene for sunshine-filled gatherings.
Let’s dive into 10 easy grilling recipes that will take your BBQ game to the next level. These recipes are not just about throwing food on the grill; they are about creating flavorful, memorable experiences. From juicy steaks to vibrant veggie skewers, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re hosting a big bash or just cooking for the family, these ideas will leave your guests raving and asking for seconds.
Get ready for some serious flavor, and don’t forget to check out number 6 – it’s a real showstopper!
1. Classic BBQ Ribs
Nothing says summer BBQ like a plate of sticky, sweet, and smoky BBQ ribs. These tender ribs are marinated in a homemade barbecue sauce bursting with flavor and then grilled to perfection, giving them that perfect char and caramelization.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 2 hours
– Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350, Protein: 25g, Fat: 18g, Carbohydrates: 22g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 10g
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork ribs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the ribs, coating them generously.
4. Wrap the ribs in foil and place on the grill.
5. Cook for 1.5 hours, turning occasionally.
6. Remove the foil and brush more BBQ sauce on the ribs. Grill for another 30 minutes until caramelized.
– Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep them juicy.
– Experiment with different BBQ sauces for varied flavors.
FAQs:
– Can I cook ribs in the oven first? Yes, cook them at 300°F for about an hour before grilling for added tenderness.
– What’s the best way to tell if ribs are done? They should be tender and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
Enjoy these mouthwatering ribs at your next BBQ!
2. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
This grilled lemon herb chicken is a go-to for summer BBQs. The perfect balance of zesty citrus and fragrant herbs makes every bite refreshing and delicious. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, so you can spend less time cooking and more time mingling!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 280, Protein: 35g, Fat: 10g, Carbohydrates: 2g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 1g
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
– Marinate overnight for even more flavor.
– Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use thighs instead? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
– What’s the best way to tell chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F.
Your guests will love this flavorful chicken on their plates!
3. Veggie Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Veggie skewers are a colorful and healthy addition to your summer BBQ. These skewers feature a medley of seasonal vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze that brings everything together beautifully.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 120, Protein: 3g, Fat: 5g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 6g
Ingredients:
– 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 red onion, cut into chunks
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
– Skewers (soaked if wooden)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors for a pretty presentation.
4. Grill skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
– Feel free to add any seasonal veggies you love!
– Brush with extra balsamic glaze while grilling for more flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes, just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
– What sauce goes well with these skewers? A yogurt dip or hummus pairs perfectly!
These veggie skewers are not only easy but look stunning on the grill!
4. Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Bring some beach vibes to your BBQ with spicy shrimp tacos! These easy-to-make tacos are loaded with juicy, grilled shrimp tossed in a zesty spice blend. Serve them up with fresh toppings for an unforgettable summer meal!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350, Protein: 20g, Fat: 10g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 2g
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Toppings: lime wedges, avocado, cilantro, and salsa
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine shrimp, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque.
4. Warm corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble tacos with shrimp and your choice of toppings.
– Use tortillas made from corn for an authentic taste.
– Marinate the shrimp longer for a deeper flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them before grilling.
– What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
These spicy shrimp tacos will surely be a hit at your get-together!
5. Grilled Pineapple with Honey
Finish your BBQ on a sweet note with grilled pineapple drizzled with honey. This simple dessert is a crowd-pleaser and brings a tropical flair to your summer gatherings. The natural sugars in the pineapple caramelize beautifully when grilled, making it incredibly delightful!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 5 minutes
– Cook Time: 5 minutes
– Total Time: 10 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 100 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 100, Protein: 1g, Fat: 0g, Carbohydrates: 27g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 20g
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
3. Remove from grill and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
– Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
– Try adding a splash of rum to the honey for an adult twist.
FAQs:
– Can I use canned pineapple? Fresh is best, but you can grill canned if drained well.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days.
This grilled pineapple is not just easy but also adds a delightful touch to your BBQ!
6. Stuffed Grilled Peppers (Wow Your Guests!)
Take your BBQ to the next level with stuffed grilled peppers! These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, then grilled until tender. They’re not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them the centerpiece of any summer gathering.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 280, Protein: 10g, Fat: 5g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fiber: 8g, Sugar: 3g
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds. Set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture and top with cheese if desired.
5. Grill peppers upright for 15-20 minutes until tender and cooked through.
– Experiment with different spices to customize the filling.
– Serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa? Absolutely, just ensure it’s cooked beforehand.
– How do I know when the peppers are done? They should be tender and lightly charred.
Wow your guests with these stunning stuffed peppers– they’ll love every bite!
7. BBQ Chicken Flatbreads
For an easy and fun BBQ dish, try BBQ chicken flatbreads. These are loaded with tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and topped with fresh arugula and cheese. Flatbreads are quick to grill and perfect for a casual summer gathering!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 300, Protein: 20g, Fat: 12g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 5g
Ingredients:
– 2 flatbreads
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup fresh arugula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the flatbreads and top with cheese.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are crispy.
5. Remove from grill and sprinkle with arugula before serving.
– Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat!
– Use naan or pita bread as a fun alternative.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prepare the toppings and assemble just before grilling.
– What other toppings work well? Sliced red onions or bell peppers are great additions.
These BBQ chicken flatbreads are sure to please a crowd with their delicious flavors!
8. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions
Grilled sausages with peppers and onions are a classic BBQ staple. The juicy sausages, paired with caramelized peppers and onions, create an irresistible combination that everyone loves. This dish is simple to prepare and can easily feed a crowd!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400, Protein: 20g, Fat: 30g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 3g
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (your choice)
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Buns for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Toss the sliced peppers and onions in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill sausages for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
4. In the last 5 minutes, add peppers and onions to the grill and cook until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve sausages on buns topped with grilled peppers and onions.
– Pair with a side of mustard for added flavor.
– Use a variety of sausages to please different tastes.
FAQs:
– What kind of sausages work best? Italian or bratwurst are popular choices.
– Can I make this in the oven? Yes, roast sausages and vegetables at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
This dish is always a crowd-pleaser and easy to whip up!
9. Herb Marinated Grilled Lamb Chops
For an elegant touch at your summer BBQ, herb-marinated grilled lamb chops are a winner. The aromatic herb marinade infuses the meat with flavor, creating tender chops that are juicy and mouthwatering. Perfect for impressing your guests!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400, Protein: 35g, Fat: 28g, Carbohydrates: 1g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 0g
Ingredients:
– 8 lamb chops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add lamb chops to the marinade and let sit for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
– Pair with a mint yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness.
FAQs:
– Can I use other cuts of lamb? Yes, you can use leg of lamb or shoulder, just adjust cooking times.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
These lamb chops are sure to leave a lasting impression!
10. BBQ Meatballs
A delicious twist on a BBQ classic, BBQ meatballs are a fun finger food perfect for summer gatherings. Juicy and flavorful, these meatballs are made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a tasty BBQ sauce – they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 300, Protein: 20g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 25g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked through.
5. Serve with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
– Skewering the meatballs can help with grilling.
– Make them ahead of time and reheat before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use ground turkey instead? Yes, just adjust cooking times for leaner meat.
– What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
These BBQ meatballs are an easy and tasty addition to your summer BBQ!
Conclusion
With these 10 easy grilling recipes, your summer BBQs will never be the same! From juicy meats to fresh veggies and delightful desserts, you have everything you need to impress your guests and create unforgettable summer memories.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match these recipes and add your personal touch to each dish. Happy grilling!
Now, get out there, fire up that grill, and enjoy the deliciousness of summer!