Summer is synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and of course, delicious BBQs!
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie just getting started, firing up the grill can be a fantastic way to gather with friends and family.
But sometimes, recipe inspiration can be elusive. Fear not, fellow grill enthusiasts!
This post is your one-stop shop for 20 easy BBQ recipes that are guaranteed to tantalize taste buds and keep your guests coming back for more.
Main Courses:
Grilled Chicken with Herb Marinade:
This classic is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. Grill to perfection and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon:
Salmon is a healthy and flavorful option for the grill. Brush salmon fillets with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze. Grill for a few minutes per side until cooked through and enjoy the glistening, caramelized glaze.
Burgers with a Twist:
Who doesn’t love a good burger? Elevate your burger game with interesting toppings and flavor combinations. Try a juicy lamb burger with feta cheese crumbles and a mint yogurt sauce, a black bean burger for a vegetarian option, or a classic cheeseburger with caramelized onions and blue cheese.
BBQ Shrimp Skewers:
Shrimp cooks quickly on the grill, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings. Marinate skewered shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, paprika, chili powder, and lime juice for a smoky and flavorful kick. Grill for a few minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce:
Skirt steak is a budget-friendly cut that packs a big flavor punch. Marinate the steak in a simple mixture of olive oil, citrus juice, and garlic. Prepare a zesty chimichurri sauce with fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red onion. Grill the steak to your desired doneness and serve with the chimichurri sauce for dipping.
Sides:
Grilled Vegetable Skewers:
Thread colorful bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Grill until tender-crisp, perfect on its own or served with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Creamy Coleslaw:
This classic side dish is a refreshing counterpoint to smoky grilled meats. Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of celery seed.
Three-Bean Salad:
A simple yet satisfying salad, this combines kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas with chopped red onion, corn, and a light vinaigrette. Perfect for a potluck BBQ or a side dish at home.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
A summer staple! Husk the corn and soak in water for 10 minutes before grilling. Grill for a few minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Brush with melted butter and a sprinkle of salt for ultimate flavor.
Grilled Potato Salad:
Give your potato salad a smoky twist by grilling the potatoes! Cut russet potatoes into cubes, parboil them until tender, and then toss them with olive oil and seasonings. Grill until slightly crispy on the edges. Combine with your favorite potato salad ingredients like mayonnaise, celery, and red onion.
Drinks:
Homemade Lemonade:
A refreshing and thirst-quenching drink perfect for a hot summer day. Simply combine fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water for a classic lemonade. For a twist, add sliced strawberries or muddled mint leaves.
Iced Tea:
Another great non-alcoholic option, iced tea is simple to make and endlessly customizable. Brew black tea according to package directions, then sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. Serve chilled over ice with lemon wedges.
Fruity Sangria:
This festive drink is perfect for a summer party. Combine red wine, fruit juice (like orange or grape), sliced fruits like oranges, apples, and berries. Let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled over ice.
Desserts:
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar:
A simple yet delightful dessert, grilled pineapple takes on a caramelized sweetness that’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Cut pineapple slices, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Grill for a few minutes per side until slightly softened and golden brown.
S’mores:
No BBQ is complete without classic s’mores! Set up a fire pit and roast marshmallows to gooey perfection. Sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate bars for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream:
Stone fruits like peaches and nectarines are perfect for grilling. Cut them in half, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with brown sugar. Grill for a few minutes per side until softened and slightly caramelized. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a decadent dessert.
Grilled Watermelon with Mint:
A refreshing and light way to end a summer meal. Cut watermelon slices into wedges, brush with a touch of olive oil, and grill for a minute or two per side. Top with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a unique and flavorful combination.
Appetizers:
Bruschetta with Grilled Tomatoes:
A simple yet elegant appetizer, bruschetta is perfect for showcasing fresh summer flavors. Toast baguette slices and top them with a mixture of chopped tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil. For a touch of smokiness, grill the tomatoes before adding them to the bruschetta.
Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce:
These crowd-pleasing wings are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Marinate chicken wings in your favorite buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes. Grill until cooked through and crispy. Serve with additional buffalo sauce and blue cheese dip for dipping.
Grilled Shrimp Cocktail:
A light and refreshing appetizer, grilled shrimp cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. Marinate deveined shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Grill for a few minutes per side until pink and opaque. Serve chilled with a simple cocktail sauce made with ketchup, horseradish, and lemon juice.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget the vegetarian options! Many of these recipes can be easily adapted for vegetarians. For example, veggie burgers, grilled portobello mushrooms, and grilled halloumi cheese can all be delicious additions to your BBQ spread.
With these 20 easy BBQ recipes in your arsenal, you’re sure to be the grill master of your neighborhood. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy the taste of summer!
