Summertime and no barbecue? Impossible! Because what else could be more enjoyable and memorable than a summer day spent chilling with your loved ones, chatting about the latest happenings in life, and noshing on the delicious, smoky barbecue?
Besides, grilling your food is healthier and more economical than ordering in or dining out. You can pick your quality ingredients, choose tasty marinades, and control the level of doneness of meat. Plus, if some of your guests are vegetarians or have dietary restrictions, you can easily accommodate them with plant-based options. Choose the perfect BBQ drink for the meal, from beer and spiked iced tea to yummy cocktails, and voila! You’ve got yourself a summer grilling extravaganza.
But What Will You Serve As A Side Dish?
No barbecue is complete without side dishes. Unfortunately, many traditional sides contain unhealthy ingredients like processed cheese, sugary sauces, and high-fat mayonnaise. And although these dishes taste delicious and add flavor to the food, they also load up your plate with unhealthy fats and calories. Additionally, some side dishes take a long time to prepare, which kills the joy of outdoor eating.
Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health or convenience. One of the most delicious and easy side dishes you can make is grilled pepper and onions – perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Learn the simple steps to making this dish, and you’ll be sure to impress your guests with its mouth-watering flavor.
That said, whether it’s your first time hosting a summer grilling extravaganza or you’re an experienced host, take your barbecuing game up a notch with these must-try recipes. With tasty ingredients, unique flavors, and ease of preparation, they’ll be a hit with everyone:
-
Grilled Teriyaki Salmon
Grilled teriyaki salmon is both healthy and delicious. The salmon is cooked in a sweet-and-sour marinade that will tantalize your taste buds.
You’ll need 1 lb of fresh salmon fillet, two tablespoons of vegetable oil, ½ cup of store-bought or homemade teriyaki sauce, and salt to taste.
If you want to make teriyaki sauce at home, mix 1/4 cup of soy sauce, one tablespoon of honey, two tablespoons of rice vinegar, and one teaspoon of grated ginger in a bowl.
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Rub the salmon fillet with oil and season it with salt.
- Grill the salmon for 8-10 minutes, flipping once halfway through and brushing with the teriyaki sauce during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the fish absorb as much teriyaki glaze as possible.
-
Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs
This classic summertime dish is a crowd-pleaser with its smokey, savory flavor. The crispy skin adds texture and juiciness to the chicken that everyone will love.
You’ll need 8-10 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs, two tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, and salt & pepper to taste. Marinade the chicken in the olive oil and BBQ sauce overnight or for at least half an hour before grilling.
Instructions:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until the skin is crispy and browned.
- Brush the BBQ sauce mixture onto the chicken thighs, coating them evenly. Continue grilling for another 2-3 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
-
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers
These spicy grilled shrimp skewers will delight your guests with their zesty flavors.
You’ll need 1 lb of large shrimp, 1/4 cup of olive oil, two cloves of garlic, minced, one tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated, one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of coriander and salt to taste.
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, ginger, chili powder, cumin, and coriander.
- Thread the shrimp on skewers and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and let them sit for half an hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the shrimp skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once halfway through.
- Sprinkle salt over the cooked skewers for extra flavor, and enjoy.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, or it’ll become hard and rubbery. If your guests have a spiciness preference, you can customize the marinade to their liking by adding more or less chili powder.
-
Green Chile Pimento Cheeseburgers
No barbeque is complete without burgers, and this recipe takes it up a notch with green chile pimento cheese. It’s a tasty combination of two classic favorites.
You’ll need 1 lb of ground beef, four tablespoons of diced green chilies, 1 cup of pimento cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions to prepare the beef patties:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Mix the ground beef, green chilies, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into four patties and place on a greased grill.
- Grill each side for about 6 minutes or until cooked through.
- During the last few minutes of grilling, top each patty with a generous amount of green chile pimento cheese.
- Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
To assemble the burger, toast the buns, place one patty on each bun, and top with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Place the second patty on top of the veggies, and enjoy.
Note: Since almost all meals contain salt, you must be mindful of your consumption amount to avoid potential health risks.
Conclusion:
Whether it’s your first time hosting a summer barbeque or you’re a seasoned griller, get ready to show off your skills and impress your guests with these tasty and easy-to-prepare recipes.
Grilled BBQ chicken thighs are a great main course option to serve with grilled peppers and onions. If your guests love seafood, grilled teriyaki salmon or spicy grilled shrimp skewers are sure to hit the spot. And which barbeque party is complete without burgers? Treat your guests to green chile pimento cheeseburgers for a unique twist on a classic favorite. The juicy, melty cheese mixed with the spicy chilis will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
