Happy July 2023 everyone. If you’re like me during the 4th of July weekend as well as the summer the barbecue is my best friend. Not only does the sound and smells of the barbecue officially ring in the Summer for me but the food taste amazing. I thought to official kickoff July and the 4th of July weekend I would give some ideas of our favorites on the grill. Enjoy and if you have any new ideas or favorites please add them to the comment section below.
1) Grilled Skewer Meatballs
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Yes, you really can grill meatballs. Inspired by Turkish köfte meatballs, this version leans on oregano and garlic for flavor. Be sure to get flat metal skewers to keep the meatballs from spinning when flipped.
2) Grilled Portobello Mushroom Pizzas
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I love mushrooms on my pizza and this grilled version makes portobello mushrooms the star. Scoop out the inside and then grill the mushrooms before adding the toppings. Serve with a green salad
3) Grilled Cedar Plank Brie
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If you need me, I’ll be over here munching on grilled slices of baguette slathered with blackberry-topped brie. The brie is warmed on a pre-soaked cedar plank for extra flavor.
4) Grilled Pork Chops with Adobo Paste
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Growing up, I knew we were having a special guest come for dinner when my dad was grilling thick pork chops. These pork chops are coated in a hearty paste of Mexican dried chilies. The paste lasts for up to a week in the refrigerator or can be frozen for 1 month.
5) Grilled Shrimp with Konkani-Inspired Masala
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Shrimp slathered in a tropical paste of coconut, chilies, garlic, and tamarind will have everyone wanting more. Look for large or extra-large raw shrimp and serve the grilled shrimp with coconut rice.
6) Blue Cheese Burger
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If you’re in a burger rut, try out this blue cheese version. The cheese is mixed right into the patties. Opt for a wedge of blue cheese whenever possible. Pre-crumbled cheese won’t melt quite as well.
7) Grilled Eggplant
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Skip the prepwork and grill the whole eggplant. Serve for Meatless Monday or as a side for chicken skewers. Leftovers last for 2 days and can be eaten as is or whirled into baba ganoush.
8) Cedar Plank Salmon (My all time favorite seafood dish)
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Grilling salmon on a cedar plank gives it a subtle smoky flavor without the hassle. Not only does it add flavor, it’s also easier to cook because you don’t have to worry about the fish sticking to the grates. Win! Turn leftover salmon into salmon patties for a quick lunch or dinner.
9) BBQ Chicken on the Grill
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While I’m partial to Kansas City Barbecue Sauce I’ll eat any grilled chicken that’s been basted in sauce and cooked until crispy and juicy. Start the chicken on the hot side of the grill and then move it to the cool side so that it can cook low and slow.
10) Grilled Chili Lime Flank Steak
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Flank steak’s rich flavor is complemented by a bright and smoky marinade. Give it at least 2 hours to soak in the flavor or marinade it ahead of time and freeze for up to 3 months before thawing and grilling.
Now that my mouth is watering I would like to wish all a happy Summer grilling season. Cheers!