12 Easy Summer Meals on the Grill: Perfect Recipes for Outdoor Cooking

When the sun is shining and the days are long, there’s no better way to enjoy summer than with delicious meals cooked on the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a family dinner, or simply craving something smoky and flavorful, grilling offers quick, satisfying options that keep your kitchen cool and your taste buds happy.

In this blog post, we’ve rounded up 12 easy summer meals on the grill that are crowd-pleasing, simple to prepare, and full of seasonal flavor. From juicy burgers to grilled veggies, these dishes are perfect for any summer occasion.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

🍋 Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 2–4 hours
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  
• 1/4 cup olive oil
  
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
  
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
   
3. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
   
4. Grill the Chicken:
   Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and grill marks appear.
   
5. Rest & Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
   

🌿 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with grilled asparagus, corn on the cob, or a fresh summer salad.
  
• Slice leftovers over a quinoa bowl or stuff into pita bread with tzatziki.
  

2. Classic BBQ Burgers

🍔 Classic BBQ Burgers

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend is best for juiciness)
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  
• 4 burger buns
  
• Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Patties:
   In a bowl, gently mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form into 4 equal-sized patties, about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb (this helps prevent puffing during grilling).
   
2. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
   
3. Grill the Burgers:
   Place patties on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness:
   
   • Medium: 160°F (71°C)
     
   • Well-done: 170°F (77°C)
     
4. Add Cheese (Optional):
   If using cheese, add a slice during the last minute of grilling. Close the lid to melt.
   
5. Toast the Buns:
   Place buns cut-side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
   
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
   Layer patties on buns and add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with grilled corn, sweet potato fries, or a fresh coleslaw.
  
• Offer a build-your-own burger bar for summer parties.
  

3. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

🍤 Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
• Wooden or metal skewers
  (If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade:
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk well.
   
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
   Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
   
3. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat the grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
   
4. Thread the Skewers:
   Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, piercing through both the tail and the head end to keep them secure.
   
5. Grill the Shrimp:
   Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
   
6. Serve Hot:
   Remove from the grill and serve with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, or a garlic butter dip.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over rice, couscous, or grilled vegetables.
  
• Turn them into tacos with slaw and avocado crema.
  

4. Vegetable Kabobs

🥦 Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  
• 1 zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  
• 8–10 button mushrooms
  
• 1/4 cup olive oil
  
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano/thyme mix)
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
• Skewers (metal or wooden; soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes)
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Marinate the Vegetables:
   Place all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over them and toss well to coat. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
   
3. Thread the Skewers:
   Alternate vegetables on skewers for a colorful presentation (e.g., bell pepper → onion → mushroom → zucchini → repeat).
   
4. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates.
   
5. Grill the Kabobs:
   Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
   
6. Serve & Enjoy:
   Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over couscous, rice pilaf, or quinoa.
  
• Pair with grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a full meal.
  

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob

🌽 Grilled Corn on the Cob

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
  
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
• Optional toppings: lime juice, chili powder, Parmesan, cotija cheese, mayonnaise, fresh herbs
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high. Clean and lightly oil the grates.
   
2. Prep the Corn:
   Brush each ear of corn with melted butter or olive oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
   
3. Grill the Corn:
   Place corn directly on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to get an even char. Kernels should be tender and slightly browned in spots.
   
4. Serve Hot:
   Remove from the grill and serve immediately. Add your favorite toppings or enjoy it simply with butter and salt.
   

🌶️ Flavor Variations:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote):
  Slather with mayo, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh lime juice.
  
• Herb Butter Corn:
  Mix butter with chopped parsley, thyme, or basil before brushing on hot corn.
  
• Parmesan Garlic Corn:
  Sprinkle hot corn with grated Parmesan and garlic powder.
  

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Great as a side dish for grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs.
  
• Cut the kernels off to use in salads, tacos, or salsas.
  

6. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

🍗 BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: Optional – up to 4 hours
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4–6

📝 Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce)
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Prep the Drumsticks:
   Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and chili powder.
   
2. Optional Marination:
   For deeper flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the spice mix for 2–4 hours in the refrigerator.
   
3. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Set up for indirect heat cooking: keep one side hotter and the other cooler.
   
4. Grill the Chicken:
   Place drumsticks on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
   Move drumsticks to the hot side of the grill. Brush generously with BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, turning and basting occasionally until caramelized and slightly charred.
   
6. Serve Hot:
   Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with grilled corn, coleslaw, or potato salad.
  
• Great for BBQ parties or casual family dinners.
  

7. Grilled Pineapple Pork Chops

🍍 Grilled Pineapple Pork Chops

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 1–2 hours (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
  
• 4 fresh pineapple rings (or canned in juice, drained)
  
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
  
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
• 1 clove garlic, minced
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
   Place pork chops in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chops, seal, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
   
3. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat the grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
   
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
   Remove pork chops from the marinade (discard marinade). Grill for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
   
5. Grill the Pineapple:
   During the last 3–4 minutes, place pineapple rings on the grill. Cook 1–2 minutes per side, until nicely charred.
   
6. Serve & Garnish:
   Serve pork chops topped with grilled pineapple rings. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a tropical slaw.
  
• For a full Hawaiian-style meal, pair with teriyaki sauce or mango salsa.
  

8. Grilled Fish Tacos

🌮 Grilled Fish Tacos

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

For the Fish:

• 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (tilapia, mahi-mahi, or cod)
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• Juice of 1 lime
  
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  

For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  
• 2 cups shredded cabbage or slaw mix
  
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
  
• 1 avocado, sliced
  
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  
• Lime wedges, for serving
  

Optional Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
  
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chipotle sauce
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Marinate the Fish:
   In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat fish in the marinade and let sit for 15–30 minutes.
   
2. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates. You can use a grill basket or foil to prevent delicate fish from sticking.
   
3. Grill the Fish:
   Grill fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Remove from grill and let rest a few minutes before flaking into bite-sized pieces.
   
4. Warm the Tortillas:
   Place tortillas directly on the grill for 20–30 seconds per side, until lightly charred.
   
5. Assemble the Tacos:
   Layer grilled fish into warm tortillas. Top with cabbage, red onion, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
   
6. Add Sauce & Serve:
   Drizzle with lime crema or chipotle mayo and serve with lime wedges.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with grilled corn or a watermelon salad.
  
• Add mango salsa or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
  

9. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

🍄 Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 15–30 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 4 large Portobello mushroom caps, stems removed
  
• 1/4 cup olive oil
  
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Clean the Mushrooms:
   Gently wipe mushroom caps with a damp paper towel to remove dirt. Remove the stems and scrape out the gills if desired (optional for better marinade absorption).
   
2. Make the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Marinate the Mushrooms:
   Place mushroom caps gill-side up in a shallow dish. Pour marinade over them and let sit for 15–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   
4. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
   
5. Grill the Mushrooms:
   Place mushrooms on the grill, gill-side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes, then flip and grill the other side for another 4–5 minutes, or until tender and juicy.
   
6. Serve:
   Remove from grill and serve whole, sliced, or on a bun as a vegetarian burger.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a main dish with grilled vegetables or quinoa.
  
• Stack in a bun with cheese, tomato, and arugula for a meaty vegetarian burger.
  
• Slice and add to salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
  

10. Steak and Pepper Skewers

🥩 Steak and Pepper Skewers

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 30–60 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) sirloin steak, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  
• Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes)
  

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
  
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
  
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Marinate the Steak:
   Place steak cubes in a ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, seal, and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
   
3. Assemble the Skewers:
   Alternate pieces of steak, bell pepper, and red onion on skewers.
   
4. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
   
5. Grill the Skewers:
   Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until steak reaches your desired doneness:
   
   • Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
     
   • Medium: 145°F (63°C)
     
6. Rest & Serve:
   Let skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce if desired.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with garlic butter rice, roasted potatoes, or grilled corn.
  
• Great for BBQ parties, cookouts, or family dinners.
  

11. Grilled Flatbread Pizzas

🍕 Grilled Flatbread Pizzas

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes 4 small pizzas)

📝 Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 4 store-bought flatbreads or naan (or homemade if desired)
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  

Topping Ideas:

• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
  
• 1–1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  
• Cherry tomatoes, sliced
  
• Fresh basil leaves
  
• Pepperoni slices, mushrooms, olives, or red onions
  
• Crushed red pepper flakes, arugula, or balsamic glaze for finishing
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat grill to medium heat (about 375°F/190°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
   
2. Prep the Flatbreads:
   Mix olive oil and minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush one side of each flatbread with the garlic oil.
   
3. Grill One Side First:
   Place flatbreads oil-side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes, just until grill marks appear. Remove from grill and flip (grilled side will now be the top).
   
4. Add Toppings:
   Spread a thin layer of sauce on the grilled side. Add cheese and your favorite toppings.
   
5. Grill to Finish:
   Return flatbreads to the grill, uncooked side down. Close the lid and grill for 4–6 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bottom is crisp.
   
6. Serve:
   Remove from grill, garnish with fresh basil or arugula, and slice to serve.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect for backyard parties—let guests build their own pizzas.
  
• Serve with a summer salad or grilled veggies.
  

12. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions

🌭 Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4–6

📝 Ingredients:

• 4–6 sausages (Italian, bratwurst, or chicken sausage)
  
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced into strips
  
• 1 large red or yellow onion, sliced into wedges
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
  
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
• Optional: hoagie rolls or sandwich buns, mustard, provolone or mozzarella
  

🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat grill to medium heat (about 375°F/190°C). If possible, set up a two-zone grill (one side for direct heat, one for indirect).
   
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   In a large bowl, toss sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Grill the Sausages:
   Place sausages over indirect heat. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally. Then move to direct heat and grill for an additional 5–7 minutes, until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C for pork or beef, 165°F/74°C for poultry).
   
4. Grill the Peppers & Onions:
   While sausages cook, place peppers and onions in a grill basket or directly on a sheet of foil. Grill over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
   
5. Assemble & Serve:
   Serve sausages with a generous topping of grilled peppers and onions. For sandwiches, stuff into hoagie rolls and top with mustard or melted cheese.
   

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with potato salad, baked beans, or a side of grilled corn.
  
• Turn it into a sausage-and-veggie bowl over rice or quinoa.
  

Final Thoughts

Grilling in the summer is more than just a way to cook—it’s a way to bring people together. These 12 easy summer meals on the grill are perfect for backyard barbecues, casual weeknight dinners, and everything in between. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these recipes will help you make the most of the season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the best meat to grill for beginners?
A: Chicken breasts, sausages, and burgers are great starting options—they’re quick, easy, and forgiving on the grill.

Q2: How can I prevent food from sticking to the grill?
A: Preheat your grill, clean the grates, and lightly oil both the grill and the food before cooking.

Q3: Can I grill without a gas or charcoal grill?
A: Yes! Use a stovetop grill pan or an electric indoor grill for a similar effect.