10 Must-Try Recipes for a Summer BBQ
Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy delicious food with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or heading to a potluck, these 10 must-try recipes will elevate your summer cookout game. From juicy burgers to refreshing sides and decadent desserts, this list has something for everyone. Let's dive into the flavors of summer!
1. Classic Beef Burgers with a Twist
No BBQ is complete without burgers, and this recipe takes the classic beef burger to the next level. Start with high-quality ground beef (80/20 fat ratio for juiciness) and season it with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. For the twist, mix in finely chopped onions, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of smoked paprika. Grill to perfection and serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickles.
Pro Tip:
Add a slice of pineapple or a fried egg for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
2. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
These skewers are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a summer BBQ. Marinate chicken breast chunks in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh herbs (like rosemary and thyme), salt, and pepper. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill until golden and cooked through. Serve with a side of tzatziki or chimichurri sauce for dipping.
Pro Tip:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
3. Smoky BBQ Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone ribs are a BBQ staple. Start by seasoning your ribs with a dry rub made from brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Slow-cook the ribs on the grill over indirect heat, basting them with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The result? Tender, smoky, and finger-licking-good ribs.
Pro Tip:
Wrap the ribs in foil during the first hour of cooking to lock in moisture.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Sweet corn is a summer favorite, and grilling it adds a smoky depth of flavor. Brush the corn with olive oil and grill until charred and tender. For the chili lime butter, mix softened butter with lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Slather the butter over the grilled corn and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a zesty kick.
Pro Tip:
Leave the husks on while grilling to prevent the corn from drying out.
5. Watermelon Feta Salad
This refreshing salad is the perfect side dish for a summer BBQ. Combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of honey. The sweet and salty combination is a guaranteed hit.
Pro Tip:
Add a handful of arugula or spinach for extra freshness and color.
6. Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Light, flavorful, and easy to make, grilled shrimp tacos are a summer BBQ must. Marinate shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Grill until pink and slightly charred. Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo.
Pro Tip:
Use skewers or a grill basket to prevent the shrimp from falling through the grates.
7. BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Pulled pork is a BBQ classic, and these sliders make it easy to serve. Slow-cook a pork shoulder with a dry rub and BBQ sauce until it's tender enough to shred. Pile the pulled pork onto slider buns and top with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. These bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for feeding a crowd.
Pro Tip:
Make the pulled pork a day ahead to save time on the day of your BBQ.
8. Grilled Vegetable Platter
For a healthy and colorful addition to your BBQ, try a grilled vegetable platter. Slice zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus into even pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred. Arrange the vegetables on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a finishing touch.
Pro Tip:
Use a grill basket or skewers to keep smaller vegetables from falling through the grates.
9. Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
This elegant salad is a sweet and savory treat. Halve peaches and grill them until caramelized. Arrange the grilled peaches on a bed of arugula, add chunks of creamy burrata cheese, and sprinkle with toasted almonds. Drizzle with a honey-balsamic vinaigrette for a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
Pro Tip:
Use ripe but firm peaches to prevent them from becoming too mushy on the grill.
10. S'mores Dip
End your BBQ on a sweet note with this easy s'mores dip. Layer chocolate chips and mini marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet. Bake until the marshmallows are golden and the chocolate is melted. Serve with graham crackers for dipping. It's a fun and mess-free way to enjoy the classic campfire treat.
Pro Tip:
Add a sprinkle of sea salt over the melted chocolate for a gourmet twist.