07 Easy Grilling Recipes for a Perfect Summer Dinner

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these 07 easy grilling recipes will add flavor and fun to your summer dinners. From savory meats to fresh veggies and sweet desserts, these recipes are quick, simple, and packed with the taste of summer.

Why Grilling is Perfect for Summer Dinners

Grilling is more than just a cooking method—it’s a way to embrace the summer season. The smoky flavor that comes from grilling enhances the natural taste of your ingredients, making your dishes more flavorful. Plus, grilling is a quick and convenient way to prepare meals, especially when you want to spend more time outdoors and less time in the kitchen.

Benefits of Grilling:

• Quick and Convenient: Grilling allows for faster cooking times, perfect for busy summer evenings.
• Flavor Enhancement: The high heat and smoke add a unique, delicious flavor to your food.
• Healthier Cooking: Grilling reduces the need for excess oils and fats, making it a healthier option.

Essential Grilling Tips for Success

Before diving into the recipes, here are some essential grilling tips to ensure your dishes turn out perfectly:

• Choose the Right Grill: Gas grills are quick and easy, while charcoal grills add extra flavor. Choose based on your preference and the recipe.
• Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill for about 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Oil the Grill Grates: To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your meats are cooked to the right temperature to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

Now that you’re equipped with the basics, let’s get into the recipes!

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a refreshing and easy recipe that’s perfect for a summer dinner. The combination of lemon and fresh herbs makes this chicken burst with flavor.

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
5. Serve with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

2. BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are quick to make and perfect for a light summer meal. The tangy BBQ sauce adds a flavorful punch to these juicy shrimp.

Instructions:

1. Toss shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread the shrimp onto skewers.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve with rice or a fresh summer slaw.

3. Grilled Veggie Kebabs

Grilled Veggie Kebabs are colorful, healthy, and packed with flavor. They make a great side dish or a vegetarian main course.

Instructions:

1. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss them in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the veggies onto skewers.
4. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
6. Serve as a side dish or main course.

4. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

This Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish. The fresh chimichurri adds a zesty twist to a perfectly grilled steak.

Instructions:

1. Season the steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the grill to high heat.
3. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on desired doneness.
4. In a bowl, mix all the chimichurri ingredients.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice and top with chimichurri sauce.
6. Serve with grilled potatoes or a summer salad.

5. Grilled Pineapple Pork Chops

These Grilled Pineapple Pork Chops are sweet, savory, and full of tropical flavor. Perfect for a summer dinner with a hint of the tropics.

Instructions:

1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
2. Marinate the pork chops in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the pork chops for 5-6 minutes on each side.
5. During the last 2 minutes, grill the pineapple slices until caramelized.
6. Serve with coconut rice or a fruit salsa.

6. Grilled Salmon with Dill and Lemon

Grilled Salmon with Dill and Lemon is a light and healthy option that’s perfect for summer. The fresh dill and lemon bring out the best in the salmon.

Instructions:

1. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush the mixture onto the salmon fillets.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the fish flakes easily.
5. Serve with grilled asparagus or a quinoa salad.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter is a classic summer side dish with a zesty twist. The chili lime butter takes this simple dish to the next level.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred.
3. Mix the softened butter with lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the chili lime butter over the hot corn.
5. Serve alongside any grilled main dish.