Summer is here, and that means it's time to fire up the grill! Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue or a family cookout, grilling is the perfect way to enjoy the warm weather and delicious food. But with so many recipes to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best grilling recipes for a summer barbecue. From juicy burgers to flavorful kebabs, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more. So grab your apron and let's get grilling!
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Peaches are in season during the summer, and they are perfect for grilling. This salad is a delicious way to enjoy the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches with creamy burrata cheese. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 oz. burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 2 cups arugula
To make the salad, brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the peaches for 2-3 minutes per side until they are slightly charred. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil to make a dressing. Arrange the arugula on a platter and top with the grilled peaches and burrata cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.
Classic Cheeseburgers
No summer barbecue is complete without classic cheeseburgers. Here's how to make them:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Salt and pepper
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or American)
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo)
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for well-done. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and allow it to melt. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill. Assemble the burgers with the lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments, and enjoy!
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Satay Sauce
These chicken skewers are a crowd-pleaser, and the homemade satay sauce is the perfect complement. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1 tbsp. lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup warm water
To make the skewers, thread the chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients. Season the skewers with salt and pepper. Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
To make the satay sauce, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Add warm water as needed to thin the sauce to the desired consistency.
Serve the chicken skewers with the satay sauce on the side.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues, and grilling adds an extra layer of flavor. Here's how to do it:
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed
- 2 tbsp. butter, melted
- Salt and pepper
Brush the ears of corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred. Serve hot.
Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Grilled pineapple is a delicious and refreshing dessert, and the brown sugar glaze adds a sweet and sticky finish. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Brush the pineapple rings with the glaze. Grill the pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, until it is slightly caramelized. Serve hot with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Conclusion
Grilling is one of the best ways to enjoy delicious food during the summer, and these recipes are sure to impress your guests at your next barbecue. From grilled peaches and burgers to chicken skewers and corn on the cob, there's something for everyone. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a summer full of great food and good company.