Summer is synonymous with grilling, and for good reason! There’s nothing quite like the taste of food cooked over an open flame. Grilling brings out unique flavors and creates an enjoyable outdoor cooking experience. Here are some mouthwatering grill recipes that are healthy and tips to make your summer grilling unforgettable.

Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Flank steak is a flavorful and affordable cut of meat that’s perfect for grilling. This is one of the grill recipes that are healthy. Marinating it overnight in a mixture of olive oil, citrus juice, garlic, and spices tenderizes the meat and infuses it with delicious flavor. Top it off with a zesty chimichurri sauce for a taste explosion.

Ingredients

• 1 flank steak (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Chimichurri Sauce

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak: In a large resealable plastic bag, combine olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the flank steak, seal the bag, and refrigerate overnight.
2. Prepare the Chimichurri: In a bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour to blend the flavors.
3. Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
4. Serve: Slice the steak thinly against the grain and top with chimichurri sauce.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Herb Pesto

Grilling isn’t just for meat lovers! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes take on a whole new dimension when cooked over an open flame. Thread them onto skewers, grill until tender-crisp, and serve with a dollop of creamy herb pesto for a light and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil for brushing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Herb Pesto

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers.
2. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, parsley, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Vegetables: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the vegetable skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp and lightly charred.
4. Serve: Drizzle the herb pesto over the grilled vegetable skewers or serve it on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Summer Grill

Use the Right Tools

Good tools make grilling easier and more enjoyable. Invest in a quality grill brush, tongs, and a meat thermometer. These tools help ensure your food is cooked perfectly and your grill stays clean.

Preheat the Grill

Always preheat your grill before adding food. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking. Aim for a medium-high heat for most grilling tasks.

Oil the Grates

Prevent food from sticking by oiling the grates before cooking. Use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to apply a thin layer of oil to the hot grates.

Let Meat Rest

After grilling, let meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and tender meat.

Grilling is a delightful way to enjoy summer with family and friends. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetables, these recipes and tips will help you create delicious meals. Fire up your grill, enjoy the outdoors, and savor the flavors of summer!