As summer arrives, the grill becomes the heart of many outdoor gatherings. And why not? There’s something special about firing up the coals and cooking up a storm with friends and family. But sometimes, the same old burgers and hot dogs can get a little tired. That’s where these 20 sizzling recipes come in! From sweet and tangy grilled pineapple teriyaki salmon to spicy chipotle grilled corn on the cob, we’ve got you covered for a summer of grilling greatness.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our collection of recipes is designed to inspire your next backyard bash. With flavors ranging from smoky BBQ pork ribs to bright and citrusy lemon herb grilled whole fish, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to make this summer one to remember!
Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful and easy-to-make grilled honey lime chicken skewers. A perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pork Ribs with Dry Rub
Get ready for fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful pork ribs, smothered in a rich BBQ sauce and infused with the deep flavors of a dry rub. This recipe is perfect for a weekend gathering or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup dry rub (see below)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Mix dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; apply dry rub evenly, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on grill or baking sheet; cook for 2 hours.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar; return to heat for an additional 15 minutes.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic grilled shrimp, this recipe combines the savory goodness of garlic butter with the tender sweetness of succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, and paprika until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these spicy and savory Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Burgers. A perfect combination of flavors, textures, and heat!
Ingredients:
– 4 beef patties (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works well)
– 8-10 slices of jalapeños
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you like
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder.
3. Stuff each beef patty with 2-3 slices of jalapeño and a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Place patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers with shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you like.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total cooking time.
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with the sweetness of grilled pineapple and the savory flavor of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 2 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill the pineapple wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Serve the grilled salmon with a slice of pineapple and spoon some remaining teriyaki sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Grilled Corn on the Cob
Get ready to elevate your grilled corn game with this flavorful recipe that combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with a hint of sweetness. This spicy twist is perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Butter or mayonnaise for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chopped chipotle pepper and garlic to the bowl; stir to combine.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
6. Serve with butter or mayonnaise, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of portobello mushrooms with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2-inch thick
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of mushroom slices with the glaze.
4. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Summer’s sweetness shines in this refreshing salad featuring grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and a hint of minty freshness. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled peaches, burrata cheese, olive oil, balsamic glaze, and chopped mint.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with baguette slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Whole Fish
This recipe showcases a flavorful and aromatic grilled whole fish dish, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. With the brightness of lemon and herbs, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (such as snapper, sea bass, or tilapia), scaled and gutted
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the fish on a large piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over the fish, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the fish on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on size of fish)
Grilled Steak Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this classic recipe featuring grilled steak, sizzling peppers and onions, and warm flour tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fiesta with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, grill the peppers and onions for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
7. Slice the grilled steak against the grain and serve with sautéed peppers and onions, and warm tortillas. Add your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Bourbon Grilled Pork Chops
Elevate your grilling game with these sweet and savory pork chops, infused with the rich flavors of maple syrup and bourbon. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of pork chops with the maple-bourbon glaze.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Skewers
A refreshing summer treat that combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of watermelon, all on a stick!
Ingredients:
• 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 200g)
• 2 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed
• 10-12 wooden skewers
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi cheese into small cubes, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in size.
3. Thread a piece of halloumi onto each skewer, followed by a few watermelon cubes.
4. Repeat this pattern until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a watermelon cube on each skewer.
5. Brush the cheese and watermelon with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the halloumi is golden brown and slightly charred.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Gouda Stuffed Grilled Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this creamy, cheesy twist! Smoked Gouda cheese adds a rich, velvety texture to the classic grilled burger.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 1/2 cup Smoked Gouda cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Mayonnaise or your favorite spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
3. Place a spoonful of Smoked Gouda cheese in the center of each patty, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the cheese.
4. Fold patties over the cheese to form balls, then flatten slightly into patties again.
5. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Assemble burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Caesar Salad with Charred Romaine
Elevate the classic Caesar salad by grilling the romaine lettuce and serving it with a rich, tangy dressing. This twist on a timeless favorite adds smoky flavor and texture to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the romaine lettuce into quarters, leaving the cores intact.
3. Brush both sides of the lettuce with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the lettuce for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing and a pinch of salt.
6. Toss the grilled lettuce with the dressing, ensuring the leaves are well coated.
7. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and croutons.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard BBQ with this sweet and spicy twist on classic grilled chicken. Succulent thighs are marinated in a mixture of juicy mango, zesty lime juice, and spicy chili flakes before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or spray for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree mango, lime juice, chili flakes, and cumin until smooth.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.
5. Brush grill with oil or spray and cook chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos, these Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Lemon
Elevate a simple springtime favorite by adding the brightness of lemon and the savory flavor of parmesan to your grilled asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and salt. Add the asparagus and toss to coat.
3. Grill the asparagus for 4-6 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your summer gatherings with this mouthwatering twist on traditional grilled shrimp. Sweet and smoky, these succulent morsels are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Wrap each shrimp with a bacon half, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Brush the shrimp with the BBQ mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes total.
Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbread
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying flatbread recipe, featuring grilled pesto chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 flatbread crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place flatbread crusts on a baking sheet. Top each with grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Aioli
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with these tender and flavorful smoky grilled sweet potatoes, paired with a creamy chipotle aioli that adds a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick slices or wedges.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the sweet potato slices.
5. Grill sweet potatoes for 10-12 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Meanwhile, mix mashed avocado with chipotle pepper, garlic, and lemon juice to create the aioli.
7. Serve grilled sweet potatoes with a dollop of chipotle aioli.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in a sizzling summer of flavors! Our collection of 20 girl-gone-grilling recipes has got you covered. From classic BBQ ribs and juicy grilled burgers to more adventurous options like spicy mango chicken thighs and smoky sweet potatoes, we’ve got the perfect dish for any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, our recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, fire up that grill, and get ready for a summer of sizzling good eats!