Summer is right around the corner and one of my (many) favorite things about this season is dining el fresco every night!!!! Nothing says summer to me like eating on my deck on a perfect summer night, and the best food to eat outside is anything grilled! This can be anything from turkey burgers to steak to corn to eggplant! Try out some of these summer grilling favorites.
Pineapple buns
– Instead of filling up on a hamburger bun (which also can tend to consist of lots of sugars and simple carbohydrates), try grilling rings of pineapple and putting your favorite meat and toppings in between! Grill for about three minutes per side on medium to high heat.
Mexican grilled corn
– This is a fun twist on a classic summer staple. Grill ears of corn for about five minutes until the kernels start to get charred. Continue to rotate until all sides are cooked. Meanwhile, mix together low-fat mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, lime juice, and chili powder. Once the corn is done, top with the mix and Cotija cheese!
Foil packets
– This is super easy, and you can get creative! Start by placing a chicken breast on a piece of foil (use enough foil that you can cover the entire chicken). Then, choose your favorite vegetables such as tomatoes, asparagus, or bell peppers. Drizzle with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Close the foil over your mixture and roll the edges to ensure that it’s sealed. Cook on the grill over high heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Change it up with shrimp or salmon and any veggies you want!
Grilled zucchini and summer squash
– I have a pretty strict rule that I only eat zucchini and summer squash in well…the summer. This was definitely a staple in my family growing up. While my mom used to steam them, I like them grilled as well! Slice the veggies pretty thinly and drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper. Lay them on the grill over medium to high heat for about 2 to 3 minutes per side (or until you see those grill marks!). Top with balsamic vinegar or any of your other favorite seasonings!
Crazy for Kabobs
– This is another summer staple that you can get creative with. Choose your favorite meat (I typically use steak) and cut into chunks. Place one piece on a skewer followed by your favorite veggies (I tend to pair steak with onions and bell peppers). Continue this until you have about two inches left on the end of the skewer. Season as you’d like and place on the grill over medium to high heat. Turn for about 7 to 9 minutes, until the meat is cooked.
The best thing about grilling your summer favorites is that it’s only a taste you can get this time of year! Get creative by using your favorite veggies and protein.
Written by GUADS staff member Emily with contributions by delish.com
