Grilling season is here, and you’re itching to try something new and exciting on your BBQ. But, let’s face it, you’re tired of the same old burgers and hot dogs. So, what are some creative things to grill that will wow your friends and family? From juicy pineapple rings caramelized to perfection, to smoky grilled avocados stuffed with cheese, the options are endless. Get ready to step up your grilling game and impress everyone with these unique and delicious ideas.
Vegetables
Corn on the cob
Grilling corn on the cob is a classic and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The smoky and slightly charred flavor that grilling imparts takes the sweetness of the corn to a whole new level. To prepare the corn for grilling, simply remove the husk and silk, brush the kernels with some olive oil, and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Place the corn directly on the grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Serve them hot off the grill with a pat of butter, or get creative and brush on some herb-infused butter for added flavor.
Grilled bell peppers
Grilled bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful. The heat of the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the peppers, resulting in a smoky and sweet taste. To grill bell peppers, start by cutting them into thick slices or quarters, removing the seeds and membranes. Brush the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Place them on a preheated grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until they are tender and have grill marks. Grilled bell peppers can be served on their own as a side dish, tossed in salads, stuffed with cheese and herbs, or even used as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.
Grilled zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that takes on a whole new dimension when grilled. The heat of the grill brings out the natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to this summer squash. To prepare grilled zucchini, slice it lengthwise into thick strips or into rounds. Brush the zucchini with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Grill the zucchini over medium heat until it is tender and has beautiful grill marks. Grilled zucchini is a delicious addition to salads, pasta dishes, or can be enjoyed on its own as a simple and healthy side dish.
Grilled onions
Grilled onions are a tasty and versatile addition to any grilled meal. The heat of the grill transforms the raw onions into caramelized and smoky morsels of deliciousness. To grill onions, start by peeling and cutting them into thick slices or quarters, so they hold together on the grill. Brush the onions with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Grill the onions over medium heat until they are tender and nicely caramelized. Grilled onions can be enjoyed in burgers, salads, sandwiches, or even as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
Grilled eggplant
Grilled eggplant is a delightful and healthy option for grilling enthusiasts. The high heat of the grill transforms the dense texture of the eggplant into a creamy and smoky delight. To grill eggplant, slice it into thick rounds or lengthwise into planks. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for a few minutes to release any bitterness and excess moisture. Rinse the salt off and pat the eggplant dry. Brush the slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Grill the eggplant over medium heat until it is tender and has beautiful grill marks. Grilled eggplant can be enjoyed on its own as a side dish, in sandwiches, or as a base for Mediterranean-inspired dishes like ratatouille.
Fruits
Grilled watermelon
Grilled watermelon may sound unconventional, but it’s a surprisingly delicious and refreshing treat. The heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars in the watermelon, creating a unique smoky-sweet flavor. To prepare grilled watermelon, slice it into thick wedges or cubes, leaving the rind intact. Lightly brush the watermelon with olive oil and place it on a preheated grill over medium-high heat. Grill the watermelon for a few minutes on each side until grill marks appear. The end result is a juicy and slightly smoky watermelon that can be enjoyed as a refreshing dessert, used in salads or salsas, or even as a unique addition to grilled meat dishes.
Grilled pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a tropical delight that adds a burst of sweetness and tanginess to any barbecue. When grilled, the natural sugars in pineapple caramelize, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors. To grill pineapple, slice it into thick rings or wedges, leaving the skin intact. Brush the pineapple with a mixture of honey or brown sugar and lime juice for added sweetness and acidity. Place the pineapple on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until it is tender and has grill marks. Grilled pineapple can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert, used as a topping for burgers and sandwiches, or incorporated into fruit salads and tropical-inspired dishes.
Grilled peaches
Grilled peaches are a summertime treat that highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of this stone fruit. The heat of the grill softens the peaches, intensifying their flavors and creating a caramelized taste. To grill peaches, slice them in half and remove the pits. Lightly brush the cut sides of the peaches with butter or olive oil and sprinkle them with cinnamon and brown sugar for added depth of flavor. Place the peaches on a preheated grill over medium heat, cut side down, and grill for a few minutes until grill marks appear. Grilled peaches can be served as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, added to salads, or paired with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork.
Grilled bananas
Grilled bananas are a simple yet delightful treat that brings out the natural sweetness of this beloved fruit. Grilling bananas enhances their flavor and creates a soft and caramelized texture. To grill bananas, leave the peels on and make a lengthwise slit through the skin without cutting into the fruit itself. Stuff the slit with butter, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Place the bananas on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until the skins turn black and the fruit inside is warm and tender. Grilled bananas can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet dessert, served with a scoop of ice cream or yogurt, or used as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
Seafood
Grilled shrimp skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a crowd-pleasing and easy-to-make seafood option. The high heat of the grill quickly cooks the shrimp, imparting a smoky flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. To prepare shrimp skewers, marinate the peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers and place them on a preheated grill over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for a couple of minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Grilled shrimp skewers are perfect as an appetizer, served over salads, or enjoyed as a protein-packed main dish.
Grilled fish fillets
Grilling fish fillets is a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy seafood. The direct heat of the grill creates a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist and tender on the inside. To grill fish fillets, choose firm fish varieties like salmon, trout, halibut, or swordfish, as they hold up well on the grill. Brush the fillets with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and other desired herbs and spices. Place the fish fillets on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until they are opaque and flake easily with a fork. Grilled fish fillets can be served with a squeeze of lemon or paired with fresh salsas or sauces for added flavor.
Grilled scallops
Grilled scallops are a luxurious and elegant seafood option that cooks quickly and effortlessly on the grill. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the scallops, creating a golden crust on the outside while maintaining a tender and delicate center. To grill scallops, start by patting them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Brush the scallops with melted butter or olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Place the scallops on a preheated grill over medium-high heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Grilled scallops can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer, served over pasta or risotto, or used as a topping for salads.
Grilled lobster
Grilling lobster adds a smoky and slightly charred flavor that elevates this luxurious crustacean to new heights. Grilled lobster is a perfect option for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dish. To grill lobster, start by par-cooking the lobster tails in boiling water for a few minutes until the meat becomes slightly opaque. Remove the tails from the water and let them cool. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut the top shell of the tail lengthwise, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat up and over the shell without detaching it. Brush the meat with melted butter and place the lobster tails on a preheated grill over medium heat, meat side down. Grill for a few minutes until the meat is opaque and slightly charred. Grilled lobster tails can be served with drawn butter and lemon wedges for dipping, or used in pasta dishes, salads, or even tacos for a gourmet twist.