The summertime sizzle calls for a hearty cookout. Did you know that, in the summer, 17% of U.S. respondents prefer to grill more frequently than once per week? While 20% of respondents barbecue several times per month. And why wouldn’t they?
BBQ is all about the enticing aromas, the chatter around the grill, and, most importantly, the food. Our curated list of seven simple yet mouthwatering BBQ dishes will surely impress your guests at your next cookout.
Table of Contents
Satisfying Barbeque Chicken Sliders
When it comes to barbecue cookouts, versatility is key. A dish that fits this bill perfectly is the barbeque chicken slider. Its taste is a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes, thanks to the BBQ sauce that the chicken bathes in. These sliders capture the essence of summer, delivering a flavorful punch in every bite.
Picture a scenario where everyone huddles around the grill, eager for the next serving. As soon as their eyes land on a platter of chicken sliders, they’ll go wild. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the BBQ sauce adds a tangy richness that delights every mouthful.
A heap of coleslaw joins the ensemble for added crunch and a fresh twist, layered perfectly between the mini buns. You can find an easy-to-follow guide online, and ensure your barbeque chicken sliders leave guests reaching for seconds.
Tempting Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a palate-pleasing appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat. The journey of transforming the shrimp into a culinary delight begins with marination.
A simple marinade, a blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, acts as a flavor elevator. After basking in this mixture for an hour, the shrimps are ready for the grill. With each side getting its fair share of flame for about two to three minutes, the shrimps achieve an ideal char.
The mix of flavors from the marinade and the smokiness from the grill makes shrimp an absolute delight, tantalizing your guests’ taste buds from the get-go.
Evergreen BBQ Ribs
When it comes to BBQ classics, ribs unquestionably top the list, and preparing this dish involves an infusion of flavors seamlessly merging into a sweet-spicy symphony.
Start with a rub made of brown sugar, chili powder, and paprika, liberally applying it all over the ribs. This mixture imparts an enticingly sweet heat that makes the ribs irresistibly appetizing.
Grilling comes next, and patience is key here. The ribs must be cooked on low heat until they turn tender, soaking up all the delicious BBQ sauce that glazes their surface. This slow cooking ensures the ribs are so tender that they literally fall off the bone.
Flavorful Smoky BBQ Bean Salad
Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, BBQ bean salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The preparation involves various canned beans, adding a robust texture and protein punch. Add corn, red onions, and bell peppers for a crunchy, fresh contrast. The variety in this mix is key, making each bite a new, enjoyable experience.
The final flourish comes with the dressing. A generous dousing of BBQ sauce ties all the elements together, adding a smoky tang that elevates the salad. This dish isn’t just an accompaniment but a standalone star that complements the flavors of any BBQ dish it’s paired with.
Delicious Grilled Vegetable Skewers
With a well-chosen assortment of colorful, seasonal vegetables, these skewers capture the essence of healthy eating. Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes make a vibrant mix, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Before meeting the grill, these vegetables are lightly seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavors without overpowering them, striking a balance that’s both tasty and nutritious.
Once grilled, these skewers transform into a savory delight. They are a vibrant addition to the BBQ spread, seamlessly combining taste and nutrition.
Delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob
The ever-popular grilled corn on the cob is a timeless fixture of summer BBQs. The preparation process starts with a soak. Corn, in its husk, is submerged in water, setting the stage for a fantastic grilling experience. The wet husks steam the corn while it grills, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Once it’s done grilling, the husks are peeled back, revealing the golden kernels. A generous slathering of butter follows, melting into the hot corn and adding a layer of creamy richness. A final sprinkle of salt is all it takes to perfect this dish.
Sweet Finale with BBQ Pineapple
Closing a BBQ feast on a sweet note leaves a lasting impression, and a BBQ pineapple does just that. The process starts with slicing a ripe pineapple into rounds. Grilling these slices is a transformative experience. The heat causes the natural sugars in the pineapple to caramelize, creating a unique blend of sweetness, warmth, and a hint of tanginess.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream can be served alongside the grilled pineapple for a final touch of indulgence. The contrast of ice cream with warm, caramelized pineapple will leave your guests relishing an unforgettable BBQ experience.
Conclusion
As the grill embers cool down, it’s evident that a successful BBQ is more than just food. It’s about creating memories with loved ones. Whether it’s the tangy BBQ chicken sliders, juicy grilled shrimp, or sweet grilled pineapple, each dish adds a unique flavor to the feast.
Every bite celebrates the joy of sharing good food. So at your next cookout, take a moment to savor the meal and the shared laughter and stories that make a BBQ cookout unforgettable.
