There’s nothing like firing up the grill on the weekend, gathering friends and family, and cooking up something delicious. If you're looking to try something new beyond the usual burgers and hot dogs, we’ve got you covered. Here are some fresh ideas to spice up your weekend grilling routine.
1. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Butter
Take your steak game to the next level by adding a twist of bold flavors. Instead of the usual seasoning, grill your favorite cut of steak to perfection and top it with homemade chimichurri butter.
How to Make Chimichurri Butter:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together and spread over your hot-off-the-grill steak for a mouthwatering finish.
2. Grilled Pineapple with Spiced Honey Glaze
Sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy, grilled pineapple is a perfect addition to your BBQ spread.
How to Make It:
Slice pineapple into rings or spears.
Brush with a mixture of honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne.
Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
Serve with a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast.
3. Beer-Marinated Chicken Thighs
Swap out the usual BBQ sauce and marinate your chicken in beer for an incredibly juicy and flavorful result.
Marinade Ingredients:
1 cup of your favorite beer
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor) before grilling.
4. Grilled Avocado with Salsa Fresca
Grilled avocado? Absolutely! The smoky flavor enhances its creamy texture, making it a perfect side or appetizer.
How to Make It:
Slice avocados in half and remove the pit.
Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt.
Grill face-down for 2-3 minutes.
Fill the center with fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
5. Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp cooks quickly on the grill, making it a great option for an easy, flavorful dish.
How to Make It:
Toss shrimp in melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and paprika.
Thread onto skewers.
Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
Serve with extra garlic butter for dipping.
6. Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Skewers
For a vegetarian-friendly option, try these skewers loaded with smoky, cheesy goodness.
How to Make It:
Slice zucchini into rounds and cut halloumi cheese into cubes.
Thread onto skewers with cherry tomatoes.
Brush with olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon.
Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly charred.
7. Grilled Pound Cake with Berries and Whipped Cream
Take your dessert game up a notch with grilled pound cake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
How to Make It:
Slice pound cake into thick pieces.
Lightly butter both sides and grill for 1-2 minutes per side.
Top with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
Final Thoughts
These fresh grilling ideas will elevate your weekend BBQ and impress your guests with bold, new flavors. Whether you’re trying out grilled pineapple or savoring garlic butter shrimp, your weekend grilling just got a major upgrade.
Which recipe are you excited to try first? Let us know in the comments!
