While burgers and hot dogs are classic BBQ staples, there’s a whole world of delicious possibilities waiting to be explored on the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a casual evening with friends and family, these 10 summer BBQ ideas will take your gatherings to the next level. From global-inspired dishes to plant-based options, there’s something here for everyone!
1. Grilled Mediterranean Kebabs
A flavorful twist on traditional kebabs.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the marinade over the kebabs and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
2. Grilled Pineapple Salsa
A sweet and spicy topping for grilled meats or tacos.
Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple, peeled and diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish.
3. Korean BBQ Beef Tacos
Bring Asian flair to your BBQ with these savory tacos.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, green onions, cilantro
Instructions:
- Marinate beef in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil for at least 1 hour.
- Grill beef slices until cooked through.
- Serve in warm tortillas with desired toppings.
4. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
A meaty alternative for vegetarians.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns and toppings of choice
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture over both sides of the mushroom caps.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
- Serve on buns with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
5. Grilled Corn with Spicy Lime Butter
A zesty and smoky side dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn, husks removed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Soak corn in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, lime zest, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill corn over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Spread spicy lime butter over grilled corn before serving.
6. Shrimp Scampi Foil Packs
An elegant yet easy seafood option.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Place shrimp in aluminum foil packets with garlic, wine, lemon juice, and butter.
- Seal packets and grill for 8-10 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
7. Grilled Fruit Kabobs
A refreshing dessert idea.
Ingredients:
- Assorted fruits (e.g., pineapple chunks, peaches, strawberries, grapes)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Thread fruit pieces onto skewers.
- In a small bowl, mix honey and vanilla extract.
- Brush the mixture over the kabobs and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until slightly softened.
8. Grilled Vegetable Platter
A colorful and nutritious option.
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 3-5 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
- Arrange on a platter and serve as a side dish.
9. Grilled Pizza
Customizable and fun for everyone.
Ingredients:
- Pre-made pizza dough
- Tomato sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of choice (e.g., peppers, onions, mushrooms, sausage)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Stretch pizza dough into a flat circle and place on the grill.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden.
- Flip the dough, add sauce, cheese, and toppings, then close the lid.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Grilled Watermelon Salad
A refreshing and unexpected salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 small watermelon, cut into wedges
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- Grill watermelon wedges for 2-3 minutes per side until slightly charred.
- Arrange watermelon, cucumber, and red onion on a plate.
- Top with feta cheese and mint, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Tips for Successful Summer BBQs:
- Prep Ahead : Prepare marinades, sauces, and side dishes in advance to save time on the day of the event.
- Balance Flavors : Pair bold grilled items with lighter sides like salads or fruit desserts.
- Offer Variety : Include options for different dietary preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free choices.