• Jul 24, 2025
• by Abel Willms
• Comments

5 Irresistible Grilled Dishes to Elevate Your Summer BBQ

Fire up the grill and get ready for flavor explosions! This article features 5 mouthwatering grilled recipes, from Georgia Shashlik to smoky chicken thighs, perfect for your next summer barbecue. Get tips, tricks, and fun facts to make your grilling game unforgettable. #grilling #bbq #summerrecipes #grilledfood #summerbbq

1. Grandpa Nick's Georgia Shashlik

Description: Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Georgia with this time-honored Shashlik recipe. Tender lamb, infused with the vibrant flavors of red wine, lemon, and aromatic spices, is grilled to perfection. A symphony of taste that's both simple and unforgettable, perfect for creating lasting memories.

Why You Should Try This: This recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations, offering authentic Georgian flavors and a delightful grilling experience.

Tip or Fun Fact:

• 1. For an authentic touch, use dry red wine from the Republic of Georgia, such as Saperavi or Kindzmarauli.
• 2. Marinating the lamb overnight yields the most flavorful and tender results.
• 3. Serve the Shashlik with a side of traditional Georgian bread, such as shoti, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an authentic culinary experience.
• 4. Consider using a charcoal grill for a smoky flavor that complements the lamb beautifully.
• 5. Adjust the amount of garlic and pepper to your personal preference. Some prefer a more robust flavor profile.

2. Easy Grilled Vegetables

Description: Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these effortlessly grilled vegetables. A symphony of textures and tastes, this dish transforms simple garden produce into a delectable side, perfect for complementing grilled meats, seafood, or enjoying as a light, flavorful vegetarian meal.

Why You Should Try This: This versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser, adaptable to any vegetable preference and perfect for a healthy and flavorful addition to any BBQ spread.

Tip or Fun Fact:

• 1. For enhanced flavor, marinate the vegetables for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• 2. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes.
• 3. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully on the grill for even cooking and beautiful caramelization.
• 4. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of elegance.

3. Tahini Chicken Skewers

Description: Embark on a culinary adventure with these Tahini Chicken Skewers! Marinated in a luscious blend of Asian-inspired flavors, these skewers are perfect for a quick and delightful summer barbecue. The sesame-tahini glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a symphony of savory, sweet, and nutty notes in every bite.

Why You Should Try This: These skewers offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, perfect for those looking for something a bit different. They're also quick to prepare and cook.

Tip or Fun Fact:

• 1. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of grated ginger to the marinade.
• 2. If you don't have a grill, these skewers can also be cooked under a broiler or in a grill pan.
• 3. Serve these skewers with a side of rice or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
• 4. To prevent sticking, make sure the grill grate is clean and well-oiled before grilling the skewers.

4. Brined and Smoked Chicken Thighs

Description: Transform ordinary chicken thighs into a smoky, succulent delicacy with this brining and smoking method. The result is incredibly juicy, tender meat with a kiss of applewood smoke and perfectly rendered skin.

Why You Should Try This: This recipe delivers incredibly tender and flavorful chicken, showcasing the benefits of brining and smoking for superior results.

Tip or Fun Fact:

• 1. For an even deeper smoky flavor, consider using a combination of applewood and hickory chunks.
• 2. Make sure your grill temperature stays consistent throughout the smoking process.
• 3. Brining the chicken for the full 24 hours will give you the most flavorful result.

5. Smoked Corn on the Cob

Description: Transform ordinary corn on the cob into a smoky masterpiece! Infused with the rich flavors of mesquite and topped with a vibrant lime-paprika butter, this recipe elevates a summer staple to new heights of deliciousness.

Why You Should Try This: This simple yet elegant dish adds a smoky twist to a classic summer side, perfect for complementing any grilled main course.

Tip or Fun Fact:

• 1. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lime-paprika butter.
• 2. If you don't have a smoker, you can grill the corn using the same method. Just be sure to soak the wood chips and add them to the grill in a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch.
• 3. Leftover lime-paprika butter is delicious on grilled chicken or fish.