Warm summer evenings call for outdoor cooking. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just hosting a weekend get-together, the season offers plenty of opportunities to get grilling. But don’t limit yourself to hamburgers and hot dogs at your next backyard gathering. Grilling can add a deliciously smoky, charred flavor to everything from appetizers and sides to veggies and sweet, fruity desserts.
Looking for some fresh recipe inspiration for the summer? Upgrade your cookout menu with these easy dishes starring some of the season’s best ingredients all prepared on the grill.
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1. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños are the perfect start to any barbecue. Stuffed with seasoned cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and grilled, these spicy bites will be the hit of your cookout.
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2. Rib-Eye Steak with Grilled Corn Salsa
Rib-Eye Steak with Grilled Corn Salsa takes juicy grilled steak to the next level. After grilling your rib-eyes, top them with a fresh salsa made with grilled corn, peppers, tomatoes and onions tossed in a zesty lime dressing.
3. Tangy Grilled Coleslaw
Trade in your traditional coleslaw recipe for Tangy Grilled Coleslaw this summer. Take the cabbage wedges to a hot grill first to get a flavorful char, then chop and mix them with sliced red onions, clementine wedges and sunflower seeds. Finish by tossing it all together with a sweet-and-sour vinaigrette full of summer flavor.
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4. Grilled Angel Food Cake Kabobs
Finish off your cookout with a sweet grilled treat. These easy and fun Grilled Angel Food Cake Kabobs are great for kids to help prepare and enjoy. Arrange fresh fruit and cake cubes on skewers, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and grill until golden brown for a quick and delicious treat.
5. Grilled Peach Crumble
Grilling fresh peach halves adds a delicious, caramel-like flavor to the favorite summertime fruit in this Grilled Peach Crumble. You can prepare the oat and pecan topping in advance, then serve your peaches warm topped with crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
– Rachel Graf
