Beyond the BBQ - Fresh Ideas for the Grill

While it is true that grilling can be enjoyed year-round in the South, the season truly gets in full swing post-Memorial Day. Wondering how to utilize that grill, other than the normal burgers, steaks and dogs, but a bit hesitant to venture beyond the standards? Here are several ideas to get you started.

Fruit

Grilling fruit results in a wonderful mixture of sweet and smoky flavors. Grill pineapple rings and you will be rewarded with a versatile ingredient that could top grilled chicken or be chopped up for a homemade salsa. Not a fan of pineapple? Try grilling sliced peaches or even watermelon wedges. Suggested sides include tangy goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

Vegetables

Much like roasting veggies in the oven, grilling can bring out natural sweetness. Just be sure to pre-oil your grill before lighting it, or brush a bit of olive oil on the vegetables beforehand to prevent sticking.

Sweet potatoes — Pre-cook whole sweet potatoes. Brush the rounds with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Place the sweet potato round on the grill and cook for approximately five minutes, turning once, until they are lightly browned and just cooked through.

Carrots -— Use whole carrots on the thin side, or cut larger carrots lengthwise. Toss with olive oil before grilling, then finish with a sprinkle of kosher salt. This is always a solid choice for the kiddos, even those who may not normally be fond of veggies.

Romaine lettuce — cut in half lengthwise, brush with a bit of light olive oil, and grill lightly. Makes a great addition to a Caesar salad.

Corn - if you haven’t tried Mexican street corn, then be prepared to fall in love. Rub corn on the cob with oil and place on a hot grill, turning corn so that all sides are charred, or about 6 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, coat the corn with a mixture of mayo, sour cream, chili powder, garlic salt and black pepper. Finish it with a squeeze of lime.

Dessert

End your meal on a sweet note with sliced pound cake grilled just long enough to create some nice markings. Top the cake with warm, grilled fruit and a generous scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. Looking for a dessert for the grownups? Grill bananas split lengthwise, then top with a brown-sugar-bourbon glaze served in a bowl of vanilla ice cream.