No matter if it’s in your backyard, at the beach, or in a park, these six recipes are designed to ensure your outdoor cookout is a flavorful hit that the whole family will adore.
Dining outside is truly one of life’s greatest joys. We can slip off our shoes and feel the refreshing grass underfoot, while soaking up the sun’s warmth. The enticing sizzle of the grill fills the air, and the earthy scent of charcoal brings back cherished backyard memories. Gone are the formal dining etiquettes; instead, casual soccer matches and vegetable garden explorations blend seamlessly into mealtime.
Perhaps it’s the al fresco experience that engages all our senses. Maybe it’s the relaxed atmosphere or the treasured chance to simply be present with our loved ones. Whatever the reason, everything seems to taste better under the open sky.
Simplicity is key when cooking outdoors. It embraces the spontaneity of an unplanned cookout, yet allows room for creativity in flavors and presentations.
From seasonal fruits and vegetables to flavorful skewers and even grilled pizzas, the options for grilling range from appetizers to desserts. By keeping it simple and making the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients along with pantry staples, success is almost guaranteed.
Transform any outdoor gathering into a delightful feast with these six inventive al fresco recipes. Keep reading, and let’s fire up the grill!
Figs often find their place alongside yogurt and honey as a dessert. In this salad recipe, these elements unite in a zesty dressing for sweet summer greens. The figs are quickly grilled to infuse them with a touch of delightful char.
The thyme-infused dough for this flatbread is quick to make, but it develops rich flavor as it slowly rises in the refrigerator for several hours. Prepare the dough in the morning for an evening cookout or the night before for a lunchtime gathering. Grilling brings out the tastiness of slightly charred plums, red onions, spinach, and a sprinkle of goat cheese for a burst of flavor.
Exquisite flavors of cinnamon, coriander, and cumin impart a warm spice to these meatball skewers made from ground turkey. Whether served alone as part of a larger meal or wrapped up with grilled veggies in a pita for a tasty handheld option, they’re sure to please.
There’s something magical about grilling lettuce—it becomes wonderfully smoky and earthy. Little gems, a mini variety of romaine, work perfectly for this dish. If they’re unavailable, feel free to substitute romaine hearts. A Spanish-inspired dressing featuring sherry vinegar and sweet paprika enhances the grilled lettuce’s smokiness, finalized with a bright dash of orange zest and crunchy walnuts.
If you’ve ever encountered a spiky green fruit with a starchy core, it was likely jackfruit. Although it is a fruit and not high in protein, its unique texture makes it a delicious plant-based alternative to pulled pork. This recipe recommends using canned jackfruit, saving you the hassle of preparing fresh fruit. Paired with the meaty texture of jackfruit and barbecue-grilled corn, these smoky stuffed poblano peppers create a deeply satisfying dish.
Keep a napkin handy when serving these juicy grilled pineapple skewers—they’re as delightful to eat as they are messy. Grilled pineapple is a classic, but this version has a little kick that even children will appreciate. Grilled just until they release their sweet juices while retaining their firmness, these pineapple pops are topped with a velvety lime-zested coconut cream perfect for dipping.
