Nothing says summer like firing up the grill, soaking up the sunshine, and sharing good food with great company.
But let’s be real—after your 14th round of grilled chicken breasts and turkey burgers, even your propane tank might be begging for something new.
It’s time to break free from the burger rut and get creative! Your grill has so much more to offer than meat on a bun.
These fun, crowd-pleasing, and healthier ideas will spark your imagination—and your appetite. Let’s get grilling!
Pizza Party, Backyard-Style
Forget takeout—grilled pizza is a total game changer. It keeps the kitchen cool and the flavors hot. Start with a whole-wheat crust (store-bought or homemade), brush it with a little olive oil, and add your favorite sauce—marinara, pesto, BBQ, or just garlic and oil.
Topping ideas to get you started:
Olive oil, garlic, diced chicken, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes
BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, red onions, and pineapple
Pesto, mushrooms, canned artichokes, and crumbled feta
Tomato sauce, broccoli, zucchini, banana peppers, and tomato slices
Place the assembled pizza right on the grill over medium heat, close the lid, and cook until the crust is crisp and the cheese is bubbly. Use a large spatula to remove, slice, and serve with a grin.
Quesadilla Quick Fix
Crispy, cheesy, customizable—quesadillas are perfect for the grill. Lay a whole-wheat tortilla down, sprinkle cheese and your favorite add-ins (think: black beans, bell peppers, corn, mushrooms), and top with a second tortilla. Grill both sides until golden and melty. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, or Greek yogurt.
Pro tip: These make a fun DIY bar for guests—everyone builds their combo!
Fruit on Fire (In the Best Way)
Grilled fruit is the summer treat you didn’t know you needed. The heat brings out the natural sugars and creates a caramelized, juicy bite.
Try these combos:
Grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt
Skewered strawberries or pineapple alongside chicken or shrimp
Apple slices grilled and served with pork tenderloin
Pears grilled and tossed with arugula, walnuts, and feta
No need to add sugar—just slice big enough so they don’t fall through the grates, and keep the grill at medium heat.
Corn: Elevated
Boiled corn is fine. Grilled corn is next-level. Soak ears (husks on) in water for 10–15 minutes, then throw them on the grill for a few minutes per side. Once lightly charred, peel off the husks and finish grilling directly for those beautiful grill marks and sweet, smoky flavor. It’s so good, you won’t even reach for the butter.
Zucchini & Summer Squash Glow-Up
These summer staples love the grill. Slice them into spears or diagonal rounds, brush with oil, sprinkle on some herbs or chili flakes, and grill until tender. Simple, colorful, and full of flavor.
Asparagus, But Make It Sizzle
Trimmed asparagus spears need just a quick toss in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Grill directly (crosswise!) for 4–6 minutes or make a foil tray if you're worried about slippage. Serve alongside fish, steak, tofu—whatever you’re grilling.
Tomatoes & Peppers With a Smoky Twist
Grill whole tomatoes and peppers until the skins blister and char. Let cool, then peel (and deseed the peppers). Use them in smoky salsas, layer on sandwiches, or mash grilled tomatoes onto a crusty piece of bread with a drizzle of olive oil.
Foil Pack Magic
Perfect for small or delicate veggies like mushrooms, onions, potatoes, green beans, and even garlic cloves. Just toss your chopped veggies in oil and seasoning, wrap them tightly in heavy-duty foil, and place the packet on the grill. Flip halfway through—most veggies are done in 25–30 minutes.
Want a shortcut? Toss in pre-chopped veggies and a splash of broth or balsamic vinegar before sealing.
Final Sizzle
Your grill is more than a burger machine—it’s a summer flavor factory. Whether you're tossing on fruit, firing up a pizza, or steaming veggies in foil, there’s a whole world of creative, nutritious meals just waiting to be made. So get outside, experiment, and make your next cookout the most delicious one yet.
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