Must-Make Grilling Recipes for Summer (We Got a Little Crazy...)

Hey there! Sam the Cooking Guy here, and I’m ready to help you make your summer grilling season unforgettable with must-try recipes. These recipes are going to make you the star of your next BBQ—seriously, you'll look like a genius in front of your friends and family. We’ve packed a lot into this post, so grab a drink, kick back, and get ready for some seriously delicious ideas to take your grilling game to the next level.

Let’s get into it! Here are some must-make grilling recipes for summer that you have to try:

1. Grilled Corn with Sriracha Mayo

Corn on the cob is a summer classic, but we’re taking it up a notch. Start by microwaving your corn for 5 minutes to speed up the process, then throw it on the grill for those beautiful char marks. Now, here’s the kicker: make a sauce with mayo, Sriracha, garlic paste, and a squeeze of lime. Once the corn is charred, brush it with the sauce, let it burn in a little bit, and finish with a sprinkle of salt. Trust me, this is going to be your new favorite way to enjoy corn.

2. Grilled Veggies with Mustard Butter Sauce

If you’re grilling veggies, the grill wok is your best friend. Toss your vegetables in there and let the flames do their magic. While they’re grilling, make a simple but insanely flavorful sauce with butter, Dijon mustard, dry rosemary, dry thyme, garlic, and some SPG (Salt, Pepper, and Garlic). Once your veggies are done, brush them with the sauce for a smoky, herby delight. Serve these as a side dish or toss them into a salad—either way, they’re a winner.

3. Grilled Pizza with Veggies and Ricotta

Grilled pizza is a total game-changer, and it’s easier than you think. Start with pizza dough that’s been oiled, then toss it on the grill, oil side down. After a few minutes, flip it over and add your toppings. I went with a silky ricotta base, grilled veggies, pesto, shredded parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Let it cook like an oven on the grill, and you’ve got yourself the best veggie pizza ever. Creamy ricotta, smoky veggies, and that little kick from the red pepper flakes make this one for the books.

4. Yakitori Chicken Skewers

Yakitori is a Japanese dish that’s perfect for grilling season. Start by making a quick sauce with soy sauce, sake, mirin (sweet rice wine), and sugar. Let it boil down for a minute or so and then let it cool. While the sauce is doing its thing, skewer your chicken pieces and brush them with the sauce as they grill. These chicken skewers are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Serve them with some rice or toss them in a taco—either way, they’re irresistible.

5. Shrimp Skewers with Spicy Seasoning

Shrimp skewers are a must at any BBQ, and they cook up so quickly. I like to season mine with chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano, then drizzle them with oil to help the spices stick. Grill them for a few minutes on each side, and you’re good to go. The perfect balance of spice and flavor, these shrimp skewers are the ultimate appetizer.

6. Shrimp Tacos with a Special Mayo Sauce

Take those shrimp skewers and throw them in a tortilla for an epic taco. For the sauce, repurpose the mayo Sriracha lime garlic sauce you made for the corn (yes, repurposing is key here). Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and now you’ve got a taco that’s out of this world. This shrimp taco is so good, you might want to keep the sauce in your fridge at all times—it’s my new favorite!

7. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Sauce

If you’re looking for something savory and smoky, these grilled chicken skewers are the way to go. The soy sauce gives the chicken an umami-packed base, and grilling them gives them a slightly crispy exterior with a juicy, tender interior. A little vinegar at the end of grilling helps balance the flavor, and you’re ready to serve these up to your guests.

8. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus might seem simple, but it’s totally delicious. The key is getting those grill marks on the asparagus while keeping the crunch. Just toss it on the grill and cook until slightly charred. You can even sprinkle it with a little salt and pepper for extra flavor.

So there you have it—some of the best grilling recipes that’ll have you cooking up a storm all summer long. Whether you're grilling veggies, meats, or seafood, there’s something here for everyone. And remember, cooking doesn’t have to be hard, just delicious. Happy grilling!

Be sure to check out Sam the Cooking Guy on YouTube for more fun and easy recipes that’ll make your cooking life better and more entertaining.