14 Grilled Summer Recipes For Outdoor Entertaining

As the sun shines and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and gather friends and family for some outdoor fun. These 14 grilled summer recipes are designed to impress and satisfy, whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying a cozy meal under the stars. Get ready to savor delicious flavors and make lasting memories with every bite!

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Spicy grilled shrimp skewers are a fantastic choice for summer gatherings. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and bell peppers make them visually appealing, while the smoky flavor from the grill adds a delicious twist. These skewers are perfect for outdoor entertaining, bringing a burst of flavor to your table.

To make these skewers, start by marinating the shrimp in a mix of olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and your favorite spices. This not only infuses the shrimp with flavor but also helps keep them tender while grilling. Skewering the shrimp with colorful bell peppers not only adds crunch but also makes for a stunning presentation.

Grilling is quick and easy, taking only about 5-7 minutes. Just watch them closely to avoid overcooking. Serve these skewers with a side of fresh salsa or a zesty dipping sauce for an extra kick. They’re sure to be a hit at your next barbecue!

Savory Grilled Sausages with Peppers

Grilled sausages with peppers are a classic summer dish that brings everyone together. The image shows beautifully grilled sausages resting on a wooden board, surrounded by vibrant red and yellow peppers. The sausages have a lovely char, hinting at their smoky flavor. A bottle of mustard sits nearby, ready to add a tangy kick to each bite.

This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings. The combination of juicy sausages and sweet, grilled peppers creates a delightful balance. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be served with various sides, making them a hit at any barbecue.

Ingredients

• 4 sausages (your choice of flavor)
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mustard for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the sliced peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned and cooked through.
4. During the last few minutes of cooking, add the peppers to the grill. Cook until they are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove the sausages and peppers from the grill. Serve hot with mustard on the side.

Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a summer staple, and this zesty lemon herb version is sure to impress your guests. The image shows a beautifully grilled chicken, golden brown and garnished with fresh herbs and slices of lemon. It looks mouthwatering and perfect for outdoor gatherings.

This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon with aromatic herbs, making it a delightful dish for any barbecue. The chicken is marinated to soak up all those tasty flavors, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.

Gather your friends and family around the grill, and enjoy this simple yet delicious dish that brings everyone together. It’s easy to prepare and will definitely be a hit at your next summer party!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon slices and fresh herbs for garnish.

Barbecue Ribs with Homemade Sauce

Nothing says summer like a plate of barbecue ribs. These tender, juicy ribs are slathered in a rich, homemade sauce that brings out the best flavors. The image showcases a beautifully cooked rack of ribs, glistening with sauce and served alongside classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans. The rustic wooden platter adds a warm touch, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Grilling ribs is an art. The key is to cook them low and slow, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful. Pairing them with a homemade sauce elevates the dish, making it a hit at any barbecue. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, these ribs are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to a low heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Cook for about 2-3 hours, brushing with the sauce every 30 minutes.
4. Check for Doneness: The ribs are done when the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
5. Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Tropical Pineapple Salsa Topped Fish

Picture this: a sunny day, a beachside setting, and a plate of grilled fish topped with vibrant pineapple salsa. This dish is perfect for outdoor entertaining and brings a taste of the tropics to your table. The combination of juicy pineapple, fresh herbs, and perfectly grilled fish creates a refreshing and satisfying meal.

The fish is grilled to perfection, with a slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy salsa. The salsa, made with ripe pineapple, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, adds a burst of color and flavor. It’s a dish that not only looks good but tastes amazing too!

This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for those summer gatherings. Serve it with a side of rice or a fresh salad, and you have a meal that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (such as salmon or tilapia)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe pineapple, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the fish fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the Fish: Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using). Mix well and season with salt to taste.
4. Serve: Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the grill and top each fillet with a generous scoop of the pineapple salsa. Enjoy your tropical feast!

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple that brings joy to any outdoor gathering. The image showcases beautifully charred corn, stacked neatly and surrounded by vibrant green leaves and bright red cherry tomatoes. The setting hints at a warm summer evening, perfect for enjoying delicious food under the stars.

This dish is simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and a kick of chili powder creates a mouthwatering experience. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great side for barbecues or picnics.

To make this delightful treat, you’ll need fresh corn, butter, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. The process involves grilling the corn until it’s tender and slightly charred, then slathering it with a rich chili lime butter. This adds a burst of flavor that elevates the corn to a whole new level.

Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy this tasty dish as part of your summer celebrations!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has grill marks.
4. Remove the corn from the grill and brush generously with the chili lime butter.
5. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Charred Vegetable Medley

Nothing says summer like a colorful charred vegetable medley. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, bringing together the vibrant flavors of seasonal veggies. Imagine a platter filled with grilled zucchini, sweet corn, and bright bell peppers, all kissed by the flames of the grill. The char adds a smoky depth that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

To make this medley, start by selecting your favorite veggies. Zucchini and bell peppers are great choices, but feel free to mix in eggplant or asparagus for variety. The key is to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to bring out their best flavors.

Grilling is simple and quick. Just preheat your grill, and place the veggies directly on the grates. Cook until they have nice grill marks and are tender, usually about 5-7 minutes per side. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch as your guests enjoy this healthy and delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
• 2 ears of corn, husked and cut into halves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
4. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Herbed Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt

Herbed lamb chops are a fantastic choice for summer grilling. They look stunning on the plate and taste even better. The image captures perfectly grilled lamb chops, showcasing their juicy pink center and beautifully charred exterior. The addition of mint yogurt on the side adds a refreshing touch that complements the rich flavor of the lamb.

To make these lamb chops, start by marinating them in a mix of herbs and spices. This not only enhances their flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Once marinated, grill them to your desired doneness. The mint yogurt is simple to whip up and provides a cool contrast to the savory meat.

These lamb chops are perfect for outdoor entertaining. Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Your guests will love the combination of flavors and the beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

• 8 lamb chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the lamb chops and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Mint Yogurt: In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, chopped mint, and lemon juice. Stir well and set aside.
3. Grill the Lamb: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the lamb chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness.
4. Serve: Let the lamb chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Plate them with a generous dollop of mint yogurt on the side.

Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill

Grilling stuffed bell peppers is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and colorful dish during summer gatherings. The vibrant colors of the peppers—red, yellow, and green—make for an eye-catching presentation. As they cook on the grill, the peppers soften and the cheese melts, creating a delicious aroma that will have everyone excited for dinner.

These stuffed peppers are versatile. You can fill them with a mix of rice, ground meat, beans, or even veggies. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a unique twist that you won’t get from baking them in the oven. Plus, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for outdoor entertaining.

When grilling, make sure to keep an eye on the peppers. They should be tender but not falling apart. Serve them hot off the grill, and watch your guests dig in!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat. Drain any excess fat. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
4. Grill the Peppers: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the stuffed peppers on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Watermelon

Sweet and spicy grilled watermelon is a delightful twist on a classic summer treat. The image shows beautifully grilled watermelon slices, each with a charred pattern that hints at the smoky flavor. Topped with a crunchy, spicy mixture, these slices are garnished with fresh mint leaves, adding a pop of color and freshness.

This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings. The combination of sweet watermelon and spicy toppings creates a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your guests. Serve it as a side dish or a fun appetizer, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 medium watermelon, cut into thick slices
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the watermelon slices with olive oil on both sides.
3. In a small bowl, mix chili powder and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the watermelon slices.
4. Place the watermelon on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear.
5. Remove from the grill and drizzle with honey. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Grilled Flatbreads with Seasonal Toppings

Grilled flatbreads are a fantastic choice for summer gatherings. They’re easy to make and can be topped with a variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Imagine biting into a warm, crispy flatbread topped with vibrant veggies and aromatic herbs. It’s a simple dish that brings everyone together.

Start with a base of grilled flatbread. You can use store-bought or make your own. Top it with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano adds a burst of flavor. The grill gives the flatbread a smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings.

These flatbreads are not only delicious but also customizable. You can add cheese, drizzle with olive oil, or even include a dollop of pesto for extra flavor. They’re perfect for sharing and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water and olive oil. Knead until smooth, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Shape the Flatbreads: Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Grill the Flatbreads: Place the flatbreads on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have grill marks and are cooked through.
5. Top and Serve: Remove the flatbreads from the grill. Top with grilled zucchini, red bell pepper, mushrooms, and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

S’mores on the Grill for Dessert

Nothing says summer like the sweet, gooey goodness of s’mores. Grilling them adds a fun twist to this classic treat. Picture this: marshmallows toasting over an open flame, chocolate melting, and graham crackers waiting to be sandwiched together. It’s a simple yet delightful dessert that brings everyone together.

Gather your friends and family around the grill. You can use skewers to roast marshmallows to a perfect golden brown. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a unique touch. Once your marshmallows are ready, place them between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate. The heat from the marshmallows will melt the chocolate, creating a deliciously messy treat.

Feel free to get creative! Try adding peanut butter cups or flavored chocolates for a twist. You can even use different types of crackers or cookies. The possibilities are endless, making s’mores a versatile dessert for any outdoor gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 package of graham crackers
• 1 bag of marshmallows
• 1 bar of chocolate (milk, dark, or your favorite)
• Skewers or roasting sticks

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Toast the Marshmallows: Skewer marshmallows and hold them over the grill flame, turning until they are golden brown and gooey.
3. Assemble the S’mores: Place a piece of chocolate on a graham cracker, add the toasted marshmallow, and top with another graham cracker.
4. Enjoy: Press down slightly to melt the chocolate, then enjoy your delicious s’mores!

Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant

Grilled eggplant is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. The image shows beautifully grilled slices of eggplant, drizzled with olive oil and topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh thyme. This dish not only looks vibrant but also offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for grilling. The smoky char from the grill enhances its natural taste, while the feta adds a creamy, salty kick. This dish is great as a side or even as a main for a light meal.

To prepare Mediterranean grilled eggplant, start by slicing the eggplant into thick rounds. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill them until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Once off the grill, sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh thyme or oregano for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the eggplant on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until tender and grill marks appear.
5. Remove from the grill and place on a serving plate.
6. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh thyme or oregano.
7. Serve warm and enjoy your Mediterranean grilled eggplant!

Lemon Garlic Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a fantastic side dish for any summer gathering. The vibrant green spears, lightly charred, bring a fresh and zesty flavor to your plate. In this recipe, we’ll focus on lemon garlic grilled asparagus, a dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

The image showcases perfectly grilled asparagus topped with lemon slices and garlic. The bright yellow of the lemon contrasts beautifully with the green of the asparagus, making it visually appealing. This dish not only looks great but also offers a delightful combination of flavors.

To make lemon garlic grilled asparagus, you’ll need fresh asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the lemon juice brightens the dish, making it a perfect complement to grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus and trim the tough ends. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate: Toss the asparagus in the marinade until well coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon slices and serve warm.