As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ for friends and family or just want to enjoy a quick weeknight dinner, these 20 sizzling summer grill recipes are sure to please.
From classic American fare like pulled pork sliders and grilled burgers to international-inspired flavors like jerk chicken wings and citrus-marinated swordfish, we’ve got you covered. And don’t worry about the heat – our recipes are designed to keep things cool and refreshing, even on the hottest summer days.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most mouthwatering grill recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor gathering. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting out, these ideas will inspire you to fire up the grill and start cooking up a storm!
Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or a summer BBQ, these grilled shrimp skewers are infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and honey.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this addictive Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ. The sweet and spicy flavors will have you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish. Brush the glaze all over the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready to elevate your slider game with these tender, flavorful pulled pork sliders smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Smoky BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Place on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast pork for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred pork with two forks and mix with Smoky BBQ Sauce.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto the buns, topping with coleslaw and pickle slices.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers
Elevate your burger game with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe combines juicy beef patties, caramelized pineapple, and sticky teriyaki sauce for a mouthwatering twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into 1/2-inch thick wedges
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Form beef patties and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, brush pineapple slices with teriyaki sauce and brown sugar.
5. Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side or until caramelized.
6. Assemble burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping with grilled pineapple, lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Grilled Corn on the Cob
Elevate your backyard BBQs with this flavorful twist on classic grilled corn. Spicy Cajun seasoning adds a bold, spicy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the corn.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Steak
Elevate your grilling game with this rich and flavorful garlic herb butter steak recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme until well combined.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the steak.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this unique and flavorful combination of grilled peaches, prosciutto, and fresh herbs on a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a quick appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, sliced
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze
– Fresh mint leaves and basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, cook prosciutto slices on the grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until crispy.
4. Spread balsamic glaze on flatbread.
5. Top flatbread with grilled peach slices, prosciutto, and fresh herbs.
6. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jerk Spiced Grilled Chicken Wings
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this Caribbean-inspired twist on classic chicken wings! This jerk-spiced grilled recipe combines the bold flavors of allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers for a mouth-watering snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove wings from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill chicken wings for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Halloumi Skewers
A colorful and flavorful vegetarian option perfect for a summer evening or outdoor gathering. These skewers are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables and halloumi cubes onto skewers in an alternating pattern.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon Fillets
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and tangy glazed recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad
Savor the sweetness of summer with this refreshing and savory salad, featuring grilled watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place watermelon cubes on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled watermelon, feta cheese, and mint leaves.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grilling time)
Smoked Paprika Grilled Pork Chops
Elevate your grilled pork chops with the deep, smoky flavor of smoked paprika. This simple recipe yields tender and juicy results that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the smokiness of the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Grill the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Assemble burgers by placing a mushroom patty on each bun and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrus Marinated Grilled Swordfish
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing twist on traditional grilled swordfish. The combination of citrus juices, herbs, and garlic creates a bright and zesty marinade that complements the fish’s natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together citrus juices, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add swordfish steaks to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove swordfish from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill swordfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Grilled Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of grilled sweet potatoes with the savory goodness of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add sweet potato wedges and toss to coat.
3. Grill sweet potatoes for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled sweet potato on each tortilla, followed by black beans and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and sweet BBQ sauce. Perfect for a backyard gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
3. Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Brush the shrimp with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly onto the shrimp.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Rolls
These flavorful rolls are perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of grilled zucchini, creamy goat cheese, and crispy phyllo is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet phyllo dough (thawed)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill zucchinis for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, cut phyllo dough into 4 equal pieces.
6. Place a grilled zucchini slice on each piece of phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around the zucchini.
7. Top with crumbled goat cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Roll up each piece tightly, folding in sides as you go.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining with these flavorful skewers that combine the sweetness of mango, the heat of chili flakes, and the smokiness of grilled chicken. Perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup fresh mango chunks
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired level of heat)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, and chili flakes.
3. Add chicken, mango, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until well coated.
4. Thread chicken-mango mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan Crisps
This simple yet elegant side dish combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.
4. Brush melted butter on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Sprinkle Parmesan mixture evenly over the butter.
5. Place asparagus on top of Parmesan mixture. Fold parchment paper or foil to enclose asparagus.
6. Grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Grilled Ribeye Steak
Elevate your grilling game with this rich and savory bourbon glaze, perfectly complementing the bold flavor of a ribeye steak. This recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs ribeye steak
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the bourbon glaze all over the steak.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (depending on thickness of steak)
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and enjoy the perfect summer BBQ with these 20 sizzling recipes! From succulent shrimp skewers to smoky pulled pork sliders, and from savory steak to sweet grilled watermelon, there’s something for everyone. Try our Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs or Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Steak for a flavorful twist. Or, go the classic route with BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Shrimp or Smoked Paprika Grilled Pork Chops. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just looking for a quick and easy dinner, these recipes are sure to please.