For lots of people, one of the most anticipated aspects to summer is grilling — everything from steak to chicken to salmon to the traditional burgers and dogs — but you can throw much more on the grill than just the main course. Grilling fruits and vegetables often brings out a juicy sweetness that can’t be achieved any other way. They make wonderful sides to any meal and the best part is that the grill is already going… so no extra kitchen mess or hassle! Here are a few suggestions for fun ways to grill vegetables and fruits as sides, a main course or dessert for your summertime enjoyment.
Portobello Mushrooms
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These grilled mushrooms can either top a juicy burger or be eaten on their own. The savory marinade includes basic ingredients that add flavor to any meal: balsamic vinegar, olive oil, basil, oregano, garlic, salt and pepper.
Source: A Serenade for Solitude
Grilled Eggplant with Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes and Basil Vinaigrette
Want an elegant side dish to serve with your barbecue? If you want something a little fancier than standard fare, but that’s still simple and quick to prepare, this is a go-to recipe that is sure to wow your guests.
Source: Domesticate Me
Balsamic Grilled Asparagus
This recipe takes about four minutes to prepare and ten to grill… can’t get much better than that! This is a great accompaniment to a steak or chicken dish, either on top or as a side.
Source: Grillin Fools
Grilled Mini Peppers Filled with Herbed Cheese
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If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can try stuffing these grilled peppers with Boursin cheese; this will complement any meat dish.
Source: After Orange County
Grilled Cilantro-Lime Corn on the Cob
What is more of a quintessential summer veggie than corn on the cob? But, you don’t need to stick with corn boiled and drizzled with butter — this recipe will create a spicy delight for any barbecue.
Source: A Bachelor and his Grill
Grilled Mini Corn Cobs with Cilantro Pistachio Pesto
Continuing with the summer corn theme, these mini corn cobs combine the sweetness of corn with rich, savory flavors that include pesto and pistachio.
Source: Proud Italian Cook
Grilled Onion Slices with Cheese
Vidalia onions are sweet when raw, but when put on the grill for just a few minutes, the sweet juices are drawn out in the most delectable way. Here, the cheese pairing is just right. You could throw one of these on a burger, a piece of grilled chicken, or just eat it on its own.
Source: More Than Hungry
Grilled Avocado with Quinoa Salad
Looking for something on the lighter side? Much has been said about the health benefits of avocados and quinoa, so if you’re cooking for a health-conscious group, this is the perfect light summer snack.
Source: Food Republic
Paleo Grilled Balsamic Pineapple
Veggies aren’t all you can grill! We don’t often think of putting fruit on the barbie, but grilled pineapple is one of the most delicious fruits there is. Its natural juice will sweeten on the grill, but adding a splash of balsamic vinegar makes it that much more delightful.
Source: Paleoaholic
Grilled Fruit Chaat
If you’ve never tried grilled fruit chaat, you’re missing out. The beauty of this is that you can use almost any fruit you like; when grilled to perfection, this is the ideal side for a meat dish, or could be a meal on its own.
Source: Foodnflavors
Grilled Fruit Skewers
Here’s a pro-tip: If you’re going to grill fruit, try to select the firmer varieties like apples; that way they are more likely to keep their shape and texture after grilling. Also, grill fruits that are a day or two from being fully ripe for the perfect texture and taste. Whatever you choose, though, these fruit skewers are an easy and delicious addition to a picnic or outdoor dinner.
Source: Fit Bottomed Eats
Grilled baby artichokes with mint chimichurri sauce
This succulent dish combines so many different flavors, including artichoke, mint and cilantro that it will be a shocking delight to the tastebuds.
Source: Food Apprentice
Grilled watermelon
Most of us would never think to throw watermelon on the grill, but this tasty treat can be made several ways, depending on your tastes. This salad is simple but delightful, with the flavors of watermelon, cheese, mint, lime and honey.
Source: amourfou(d)
Grilled Pear Salad with Bleu Cheese & Pecans
This salad could be a great main course, especially on a luncheon menu. The bleu cheese’s distinctive flavor with the sweetness of grilled pears and pecans will feel like an indulgence, though it’s actually very healthy!
Source: Culicurious
Grilled Peanut Butter Banana S’mores
“Decadent” doesn’t even begin to describe this treat that will be sure to win over kids and adults alike with its gooey sweetness!
Source: The Pink Flour
Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Honey Butter
Nothing makes a peach sweeter than cinnamon and honey… except being on the grill! Using the grill to enhance the peaches’s natural flavor, and then adding a little extra sweetness is sure to wow any dessert-loving guest!
Source: Alaska from Scratch
While throwing some burgers and hotdogs on the grill might be “All-American”, there’s nothing better than finding a new twist on the old favorites. The next time you throw a party, or just want to have a delicious dinner on your own, try grilling your fruits or vegetables. It could be as simple as adding a grilled fruit dessert to your next Kebab night! You might find that instead of plain corn on the cob or a “standard” fruit salad, these recipes can be your new favorite methods for preparing your fruits and vegetables.
The process of grilling asparagus and peaches all gets a little easier if you have the right tools for the job. We have everything you need to grill your way through a summer of delicious meals in our personalized grilling & patio line, and don’t forget to let us know how your recipes come out!
