Summer BBQs are all about good food, great company, and sizzling grills. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just cooking for your family, choosing the right protein can make all the difference. From juicy classics to fun new options, there's something for everyone to throw on the grill.
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The best part is, these proteins can be seasoned, marinated, or kept simple, depending on your style. They cook up fast and bring bold flavor to your outdoor meals. Here are some of the top protein picks to fire up on the grill this summer.
Chicken
Chicken thighs stay juicy and full of flavor, even after grilling. They’re less likely to dry out than chicken breasts, making them perfect for BBQs. You can marinate them in anything from lemon herb to spicy BBQ sauce.
Boneless thighs cook faster, while bone-in ones pack more flavor. They pair well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. For a full summer meal, serve them with corn on the cob.
Steak
Ribeye steak is rich, tender, and full of marbling that melts as it grills. It doesn’t need much, just salt, pepper, and a hot grill.
Cook it medium-rare to medium for the best flavor and texture. Let it rest before slicing so the juices stay inside. Serve with grilled asparagus or a baked potato. It’s a BBQ classic that always impresses.
Pork Chops
Pork chops are an easy and tasty summer grilling option. Choose bone-in for extra flavor or boneless for quicker cooking. Marinate them in a mix of garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
Grill them until golden with nice sear marks on each side. They go great with coleslaw or grilled peaches. Be sure not to overcook them so they stay tender.
Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp cook fast on the grill and soak up flavor like a sponge. Thread them onto skewers with veggies like peppers and onions.
A garlic-lime or Cajun marinade makes them pop. Grill them for just a few minutes on each side. They’re perfect as a light option or appetizer. Serve them over rice or a fresh green salad.
Turkey Burgers
Turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to beef but still delicious. Season them well or mix in onions, herbs, or cheese. Grill until the inside is fully cooked and the outside is nicely browned.
They’re lighter but still hearty enough for a sandwich. Add fresh toppings like avocado or grilled pineapple. A whole wheat bun adds a nice touch of flavor and texture.
Salmon Fillets
Salmon holds up well on the grill and is packed with heart-healthy fats. Keep the skin on to help it stay together and prevent sticking. A simple glaze of honey, mustard, and lemon is all you need.
Grill skin-side down most of the time, flipping gently near the end. It pairs perfectly with grilled veggies or quinoa. The smoky flavor brings out the richness of the fish.
Lamb Chops
Lamb chops have a bold flavor that stands out at any BBQ. A rosemary and garlic marinade works beautifully. Grill them quickly over high heat for a nice crust and juicy center.
Let them rest before serving to keep them tender. They go great with mint yogurt sauce and grilled flatbread. It’s a fun way to offer something different at your cookout.
Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are always a hit, especially when grilled to crispy perfection. You can season them dry or toss them in sauce after cooking. Grill them over medium heat to make sure they cook evenly.
Rotate them often to avoid burning. Serve with celery and dip on the side. They're great for a casual, hands-on BBQ experience.
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are simple, classic, and cook in minutes. They’re especially great for kids or a last-minute meal.
Grill them until they have charred lines and a slight crisp. You can use beef, turkey, or plant-based versions. Serve with all the toppings like mustard, ketchup, and relish. Add a grilled bun for extra flavor.
Sausages
Sausages bring bold flavors and are easy to toss on the grill. Choose from spicy Italian, smoky bratwurst, or chicken apple.
Grill over medium heat so the inside cooks without burning the outside. Turn them regularly for even cooking. Serve with mustard and grilled onions. They’re great in buns or sliced over salads.
Beef Burgers
Beef burgers are the heart of many BBQs and loved by all ages. Use ground beef with a bit of fat for juicy results. Season with salt, pepper, and any extras you like.
Grill until browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness. Add cheese during the last minute for a melty topping. Serve with all the classic fixings for a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Tofu Steaks
Tofu is a great plant-based protein that grills up nicely when pressed and marinated. Use extra-firm tofu and pat it dry before grilling. Soak it in soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for flavor.
Grill over medium heat until crispy and browned. Serve with rice or on a bun with spicy mayo. It’s a great meatless option even meat-eaters enjoy.
Tuna Steaks
Tuna steaks are meaty, flavorful, and grill quickly. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon juice. Cook them just a minute or two per side for rare to medium-rare.
Letting them overcook can make them dry. Serve with mango salsa or over greens. It's a healthy, gourmet option that feels special.
Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is thin, flavorful, and perfect for quick grilling. Marinate it in lime juice, garlic, and cumin for a fajita-style flavor. Cook over high heat and slice thin against the grain.
It’s great for tacos, salads, or sandwiches. Let it rest before cutting to keep the juices in. This cut is all about bold flavor and tender texture.
Venison
Venison is lean, flavorful, and a great option for something unique. It benefits from a good marinade to keep it tender. Grill over medium heat and don’t overcook it; rare to medium is best. Let it rest before slicing. It pairs well with sweet glazes or herb butters. Perfect for adventurous grillers looking to try something new.
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