Spring is in the air, which means the fragrant scents of hyacinths, lilacs, and magnolias dominate your yard. But soon, those floral fragrances will quickly be replaced with the aromas of other treats from nature — grilled chicken and vegetable kebabs — and you’ll take in these smoky aromas every day if you have your way.
Research shows that the market for barbecue grills is expected to grow from $2.19 billion to $3.28 billion, indicating a rise in the popularity of barbecuing. Barbecuing is increasingly in demand since it allows families and friends to gather and socialize outside and enjoy their favorite flame-kissed foods.
When was the last time you switched up your barbecue menu? New caramelized additions to your summer barbecue spread can help you introduce new charred flavors and new memories to family and friends alike. Let’s explore the top five BBQ menu ideas to take advantage of this summer.
1. Chili Ribs
Give your barbecue sauce a break. Asian-inspired chili grilled ribs can be just as delicious as your favorite barbecued items on the grill. Spices and ginger can easily give your ribs bold flavors.
Preparing the dry rub is simple:
Mix chili flakes (¼ teaspoon), kosher salt (1 tablespoon), dry mustard (1 tablespoon), smoked paprika (1 tablespoon), granulated garlic (2 tablespoons), and brown sugar (½ cup). Then, sprinkle olive oil (2 tablespoons) over your ribs, and generously sprinkle your fresh chili rub over your ribs. Your ribs are ready to grill at 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Use oakwood or hickory smoking wood to give the ribs an even smokier taste.
2. Mahi Mahi
Want a break from brats and burgers on the grill? Try mahi mahi, a popular saltwater fish known for its firm texture and sweet, mild taste. Before grilling your fish filets, cover them with olive oil (2 tablespoons), and sprinkle a special seasoning mixture on them. Create this mixture using garlic powder (½ teaspoon), black pepper (½ teaspoon), smoked paprika (½ teaspoon), chopped thyme leaves (1 teaspoon), and salt (2 teaspoons).
Your grill temperature should be between 400 degrees Fahrenheit and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Drizzle the fish filets with butter once they’re grilled, and garnish them with lemon wedges and fresh thyme. This mahi mahi dish is an excellent option if you’re looking for a BBQ item that’s excellent for your heart’s health due to being lean and containing minimal fat.
3. Dill-Feta Chicken Burgers
Moooove over, beef burgers! Chicken just may take your place at this year’s BBQ get-togethers. Offering an explosion of flavors, dill-feta chicken burgers can easily become a new hit at your next grilling session. Before shaping your Mediterranean-inspired patties using ground chicken (1 pound), mix the chicken with pepper (¼ teaspoon), salt (¼ teaspoon), minced garlic (three cloves), minced dill (2 tablespoons), Ritz crackers (2 tablespoons), a large minced shallot, a large lightly beaten egg, and feta cheese (½ cup). The center of each patty should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A high-quality outdoor grill appliance will give your burgers a smoky flavor and char that your guests will find irresistible.
4. Key West Steak
Bring a taste of Key West to your backyard with these grilled beauties! The Colombian-inspired flank steaks offer a tropical touch that will make any BBQ spread more vibrant.
Creating the perfect marinade for your beef steak is easy:
Mix olive oil (2 tablespoons), lime juice (¼ cup), white wine vinegar (¼ cup), minced cilantro (1 cup), and a sliced red onion. Rub the steaks with olive oil before dipping them in the marinade, and let the steak sit in the fridge overnight. Then, use medium heat to grill the steaks, ensuring they reach 135 degrees Fahrenheit (medium rare), 140 degrees Fahrenheit (medium), or 145 degrees Fahrenheit (medium well).
5. Sriracha Brats
Add some spice to your grilling fest with this yummy take on the classic bratwurst. Zesty Sriracha mayo can instantly elevate your grilled brats’ flavor while giving them some heat. Whip up the mayo by mixing mayonnaise (½ cup), red peppers (⅓ cup), Sriracha sauce (3 tablespoons), and hot pepper sauce (1 teaspoon). Medium to low heat is all it takes to grill your brats before topping them with your Sriracha mayo.
Consider boiling your brats in your favorite beer before grilling them to add extra flavor to them, and elevate the taste of your brats even more with buns featuring butter and garlic.
Take Your Next BBQ to the Next Level
Infusing new flavors and smells into your barbecue dishes can help you elevate your next Memorial Day, 4th of July, graduation, or just-because-it-summer BBQ shindig. From chili grilled ribs to Key West steak, the right menu additions can easily make your future barbecues more delectable and savory. Consider trying out the above-listed BBQ menu ideas to elevate your barbecuing experience in the months and years ahead.
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