How to throw a low-maintenance-and very delicious-barbecue this summer.
A barbecue with people you love is one of the best ways to enjoy a summer day. Grilling is a low-maintenance cooking method, and results in nicely charred, caramelized meat and vegetables. Along with the grilled dishes, it's nice to prepare some easy sides that are as good at room temperature as they are hot. Keep reading for 20 trustworthy barbecue recipes, for both mains and side dishes, fit for a summer BBQ soiree.
Related: How to Grill the Perfect Steak, According to a Professional Chef
Seasoned with lime, brown sugar, and chili powder, this chicken is grilled to smoky-sweet perfection. A bright, summery fruit salsa is the ideal accompaniment to scatter on top.
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With this easy dry rub recipe in your repertoire, you can make delicious, flavor-packed ribs whenever the craving arises. The brown sugar in the dry rub encourages caramelization for a satisfyingly crispy, sticky texture.
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If you haven't made a raw zucchini salad, this is your sign to give it a try. Alongside the hearty, spicy chicken, a refreshing, lemony shaved zucchini salad is just what you need to balance the meal.
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This recipe requires some forethought, but it's worth it for the low-maintenance preparation on the day of the barbecue, and the tender, well-spiced result. The secret ingredient is pomegranate molasses, which has a tangy, floral flavor.
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Cherries and bourbon are a match made in heaven, and make for a deliciously sweet-and-sour sauce for these grilled chicken wings. Just don't be surprised if people ask you to make this dish again and again.
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Yes, you can buy store-bought barbecue sauce, but it's easy to pull together your own with pantry staples like molasses and mustard. Use this recipe as a starting point, and play around with the ingredients and ratios to make your own perfect BBQ topper.
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It's no secret that garlic and Parmesan make everything better, and this recipe is further proof. Fold plenty of parsley and lemon zest into the sauce to brighten up the chicken wings as a final touch.
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Baked beans are a classic barbecue side, in part because they can be made ahead and served at room temperature. This recipe includes-hear us out-fresh pineapple, which balances out the rich bacon and beans.
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Once you know how to grill one vegetable, you pretty much know how to grill them all, so this is our one-stop guide to all things grilled vegetables. Grilling brings out the best in many, many vegetables, and we recommend filling up your grill with at least one round of veggies at your next barbecue.
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Related: How Long to Cook (Pretty Much) Anything on the Grill
Cornbread is so easy to make at home, and it's a fan-favorite at barbecues. We like baking cornbread in a cast-iron skillet and serving it in wedges with butter and honey.
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Skirt steak is great for the grill, as it cooks evenly and quickly (about 3 minutes per side). This recipe includes a variation on ratatouille made with squash, zucchini, and eggplant, and dressed with balsamic vinegar.
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Melon and prosciutto is a classic pairing, and this recipe takes it to the next level in the form of grilled skewers. Serve them as a side or as a main; the additions of halloumi and ciabatta make the skewers extra filling and main course-worthy.
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In the mood for a burger, but don't want a heavy beef patty? Try this recipe for turkey-zucchini burgers, which tastes brighter and lighter while still satisfying your burger craving.
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Grilled corn is a game changer, and this how-to takes you through the process from beginning to end. Smother the corn with butter and salt to finish, or play around with different sauces and spice blends to dress it up.
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If you haven't tried grilled halloumi, now is the time. Charred, salty, and rich, grilled halloumi makes everything better, including this fresh, crunchy salad.
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Pork chops might not be the most summery food, but they make for a delicious summer dinner when you want something on the heartier side. Serve with a big salad of peaches and arugula to balance out the richness.
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At their core, these melts are fancy grilled cheese sandwiches. Everything comes together on the grill, and the result is a summery vegetarian dish that highlights eggplant and tomato.
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Use any combination of summer squash for this light, herby side dish. A bit of chile provides heat, while a handful of roasted, salted almonds bring the crunch.
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Related: 12 Grilled Chicken Recipes Everyone Will Love
Shrimp cooks in no time on the grill, and is begging to be loaded into warm tortillas with a fresh, spicy salsa. Serve these tacos with lime wedges, and call it a day.
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Hanger steak is one of the tenderest cuts of beef, so it's best to treat it simply in order to let the meat shine. Serve with a punchy green bean and sweet pepper slaw that comes together in minutes.
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