When you think of grilling, steaks and burgers might be the first foods that come to mind, but there’s a whole world of unexpected items that can benefit from the smoky char of a barbecue. From the creamy richness of avocado to the sweet juiciness of peaches, expanding your grilling repertoire can turn an ordinary backyard barbecue into a gourmet affair. These surprising foods prove that almost anything can be made more delicious with a little grill time.
Romaine Lettuce
Grilling romaine lettuce enhances its natural flavors, giving it a smoky, charred edge that’s unexpectedly delightful. Just slice the heads in half, drizzle with olive oil, and lay them cut-side down on the grill. It’s a simple way to transform your average Caesar salad into a gourmet affair.
Avocado
Avocados take on a wonderful creaminess when grilled, which makes them perfect for adding a smoky touch to guacamole or salads. Halve them, remove the pit, and place cut-side down on the grill just long enough to get some nice marks. The heat really brings out their natural richness.
Get the Recipe: Steak Stuffed Grilled Avocados
Peaches
Peaches caramelize beautifully with a little heat, which makes grilling them a fantastic decision. The sugars concentrate and the flesh softens, yielding a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with cream or ice cream. Grilled peaches make a simple yet sophisticated dessert or salad addition.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peaches with Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble
Pound Cake
Grilled pound cake? Absolutely! The grill marks add not only a toasty flavor but also a pleasing crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, buttery interior. Serve this up with some fresh berries and whipped cream for a completely transformed dessert experience.
Watermelon
Grilling watermelon might sound strange, but it actually intensifies the fruit’s flavor and sweetness while adding a pleasant smokiness. Just grill thick slices until char lines appear, and enjoy a juicy, warm treat. It’s particularly delicious when sprinkled with a little salt or paired with feta cheese.
Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese that holds its shape under heat, making it ideal for grilling. It develops a crispy, golden exterior and a meltingly soft interior. Slice it, grill until brown, and drizzle with lemon and herbs for a savory, chewy treat that’s wildly addictive.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Halloumi Lamb Burger
Oysters
Grilling oysters opens them up to a world of smoky possibilities. Top them with a dab of butter and a sprinkle of garlic before placing on the grill. As they cook, they’ll pop open and become infused with a wonderful, oceanic smokiness.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a no-brainer for the grill. Slicing them into wedges or rounds and cooking them over an open flame brings out their inherent sweetness and adds a lovely char. They make a healthy, vibrant side that complements just about any main.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Potato Wedges
Donuts
For a dessert that will break norms and delight guests, try grilling donuts. Cut them in half, place on the grill to get crispy, and caramelized, and serve with a scoop of ice cream on top. It’s a fun, indulgent treat that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower steaks are fantastic on the grill. Thick slices hold up well to the heat, becoming tender and lightly charred, absorbing all the smoky flavors of the barbecue. Brush with seasoned oil and serve with a drizzle of tahini for a plant-based delight.
Figs
Figs are delicate, but grilling them can enhance their sweetness while adding a light smokiness. Halve them and place on the grill for just a few minutes. They pair beautifully with goat cheese and honey, creating a dish that balances sweet and savory elegantly.
Camembert Cheese
Like brie, Camembert is fabulous when grilled. The entire cheese can be placed directly on the grill to melt slightly and develop a smoky crust. Spread it on grilled bread or crackers for a decadently warm, creamy appetizer that’s bound to impress.
11 Tips That Will Have You Grilling Like A Pro This Season
Grilling is an art that balances skill with a touch of science, and mastering it can transform your backyard meals into gourmet events. This guide lays out 11 essential tips that will elevate your grilling game and turn you into a grill master this season. From choosing the right type of grill to mastering the heat needed for perfect sear marks, we cover everything you need to know.
Read it Here: 11 Tips That Will Have You Grilling Like A Pro This Season
The Secret Steak-Cooking Method You’re Probably Missing Out
Steak lovers understand that achieving the perfect steak is no small feat. Traditional methods such as open-flame grilling often struggle with temperature control, which can lead to unevenly cooked meat. Thankfully, the reverse sear method is gaining traction as a foolproof way to prepare steak. This simple yet effective technique involves cooking the steak low and slow to ensure even internal cooking, followed by a quick sear that produces a juicy, tender, and beautifully even result. Let’s walk through how simple it is to do.
Read it Here: The Secret Steak-Cooking Method You’re Probably Missing Out
13 Innovative Food Apps That Are Changing The Way We Eat
With smartphones as our constant companions, it’s no surprise that apps are revolutionizing the way we approach food and cooking. From reducing food waste to finding the best vegan eateries, there’s an app for nearly every dietary need. This article explores innovative apps that are changing our culinary landscape, making eating healthier, more sustainable, and a lot more interesting.
Read it Here: 13 Innovative Food Apps That Are Changing The Way We Eat
Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
