34+ Taste Italian Barbecue Recipes for Every Taste

Italian cuisine is famous for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and rich traditions. While pasta and pizza may dominate the international image of Italy, one of the country’s most beloved cooking methods is the art of grilling.

Italian barbecue, or “grigliata,” is a true reflection of the Mediterranean way of life – simple yet full of flavor, where fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables are grilled over open flames, often accompanied by a glass of wine.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to recreate an Italian feast at home, these mouth-watering Italian barbecue recipes will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy.

34+ Taste Italian Barbecue Recipes for Every Taste

Italian barbecue is all about enjoying good food with family and friends, savoring the flavors of the finest meats and vegetables grilled to perfection.

The recipes shared here bring the essence of Italian grilling into your home, making it easy to create delicious dishes that are simple yet full of life.

Whether you’re a novice or an expert griller, these recipes will help you add an authentic Italian touch to your next barbecue.

So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these unforgettable barbecue dishes!

Grilled Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary

This simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish features chicken marinated with fresh lemon, rosemary, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. The bright, citrusy notes from the lemon blend with the aromatic rosemary to create a satisfying, low-carb, and keto-friendly meal. It’s ideal for a quick lunch that is both nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve the chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh rosemary if desired.

This grilled chicken with lemon and rosemary is an excellent option for those on a keto or low-carb diet. It’s packed with fresh ingredients that provide essential nutrients while keeping carbs at a minimum. The vibrant citrus and herb flavors make it an enjoyable, satisfying meal perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Italian Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan and Basil

zucchini slices are a wonderful side dish that pairs perfectly with any barbecue. This recipe enhances the natural sweetness of zucchini with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a fresh basil topping. It’s light, low-carb, and a great option for anyone seeking a nutritious and keto-friendly vegetable dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis (sliced lengthwise)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the zucchini slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini is tender.
4. Remove the zucchini from the grill and sprinkle immediately with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

This grilled zucchini recipe offers a delicious, keto-friendly side dish that brings out the natural flavors of the vegetable. The richness of Parmesan combined with the freshness of basil creates a perfect harmony. It’s a wonderful addition to any barbecue spread, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative to carb-heavy sides.

Grilled Italian Sausages with Peppers and Onions

Italian sausages are a favorite at any barbecue, and this recipe elevates them by pairing them with grilled bell peppers and onions. The savory, juicy sausages mixed with the sweet char of the vegetables make this a perfect low-carb, keto-friendly meal for lunch. It’s hearty yet light enough for those looking to stay on track with their health goals.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausages (preferably mild or spicy)
• 2 bell peppers (sliced)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the sausages, peppers, and onions with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Grill the sausages for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, grill the bell peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve the sausages with the grilled peppers and onions on the side.

This recipe for grilled Italian sausages with peppers and onions brings a satisfying, smoky flavor that is perfect for a keto lunch. The peppers and onions add sweetness and crunch while the sausages provide protein and richness. It’s a well-rounded, low-carb meal that’s full of flavor, making it a great choice for any barbecue occasion.

Grilled Eggplant with Ricotta and Balsamic Glaze

This grilled eggplant dish is a deliciously savory yet light option for a keto lunch. Grilled eggplant slices are topped with creamy ricotta cheese and drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, offering a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is a great way to enjoy the earthy flavor of eggplant while keeping the carbs low.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants (sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant slices for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until tender and grill marks appear.
4. In a small pan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium heat and cook until it reduces into a glaze, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Once the eggplants are grilled, top each slice with a spoonful of ricotta cheese and drizzle with the balsamic glaze.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Grilled eggplant with ricotta and balsamic glaze is a simple yet gourmet dish that’s perfect for a keto lunch. The grilled eggplant provides a smoky, soft texture, while the ricotta cheese adds a rich creaminess. The balsamic glaze ties the flavors together with a tangy sweetness, making it a truly satisfying low-carb option.

Italian Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Pesto

These grilled shrimp skewers are a keto-friendly lunch that bursts with Italian flavor. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty pesto sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. It’s a light and delicious meal that’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it ideal for a low-carb diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with pesto sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

These Italian grilled shrimp skewers with pesto are perfect for a keto lunch. The combination of shrimp and pesto creates a deliciously savory dish that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. The freshness of the basil and lemon adds a bright contrast, making this dish a light yet satisfying choice for a barbecue.

Caprese Salad on the Grill

grilled twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all grilled to bring out their natural sweetness. Drizzled with a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this is a refreshing and keto-friendly option that’s full of vibrant Italian flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes (sliced into thick rounds)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until grill marks appear and they begin to soften.
3. Grill the mozzarella slices for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are slightly melted and have grill marks.
4. Arrange the grilled tomatoes and mozzarella on a platter, alternating slices.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

This grilled Caprese salad is a light and delicious dish that’s perfect for a keto lunch. The grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and mozzarella, while the fresh basil and balsamic vinegar provide a flavorful contrast. It’s a great option to enjoy the vibrant tastes of Italy while keeping carbs low.

Grilled Italian Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

These juicy Italian meatballs are grilled to perfection and paired with fresh zucchini noodles for a delicious and low-carb meal. The meatballs are flavored with garlic, oregano, and Parmesan, while the zucchini noodles serve as a light and healthy alternative to pasta. This is a satisfying dish that delivers both protein and healthy vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Grill the meatballs for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and browned on all sides.
5. While the meatballs are grilling, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender.
6. Serve the grilled meatballs over the zucchini noodles, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Grilled Italian meatballs with zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. The savory meatballs, made with garlic, oregano, and Parmesan, are a flavorful and protein-packed addition to the fresh zucchini noodles. This keto-friendly dish is both satisfying and full of Italian flavors.

Grilled Chicken Parmesan (Without Breadcrumbs)

This keto-friendly version of Chicken Parmesan skips the breadcrumbs and is instead grilled to perfection with a crispy outer layer, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a healthy take on the classic Italian comfort food, delivering all the savory flavors while keeping it low in carbs.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella (shredded)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. While the chicken is grilling, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with a generous amount of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella.
6. Close the grill lid for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This grilled Chicken Parmesan is a delicious keto version of the classic, full of flavor but without the carbs. The crispy chicken, combined with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, offers the comforting taste of Chicken Parmesan in a much lighter and low-carb form. It’s a great option for anyone craving a satisfying Italian meal while staying within their keto guidelines.

Grilled Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

These grilled Portobello mushrooms are stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, then grilled to perfection. The result is a rich, savory dish that combines the flavors of a Caprese salad with the meaty texture of mushrooms. This keto-friendly option is great as a main or a side dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large Portobello mushroom caps (stems removed)
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella (sliced)
• 1 large tomato (diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the Portobello mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
4. In a small bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar.
5. Remove the mushrooms from the grill and stuff each cap with a few slices of mozzarella and a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture.
6. Return the mushrooms to the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tomatoes soften.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil.

Grilled Caprese stuffed Portobello mushrooms are a perfect keto-friendly dish that combines the best flavors of an Italian Caprese salad with the richness of mushrooms. This dish is not only low in carbs but also offers a satisfying, savory bite with every mouthful. Whether as a main dish or a side, it’s a fantastic option for any barbecue.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Sage and Garlic

This grilled pork tenderloin is marinated in a savory mixture of sage, garlic, and olive oil, then cooked to juicy perfection on the grill. The pork absorbs the rich flavors from the herbs and garlic, offering a flavorful, low-carb option for lunch or dinner. Paired with a simple side or salad, it’s an elegant yet easy-to-make keto-friendly meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork tenderloin
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the pork tenderloin for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Grilled pork tenderloin with sage and garlic is a deliciously savory, keto-friendly option that offers tender, juicy meat full of flavor. The aromatic herbs and garlic enhance the natural richness of the pork, making it a perfect dish for a satisfying low-carb lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a simple side salad.

grilled Italian Vegetables with Goat Cheese

This grilled vegetable dish is a great keto-friendly option, featuring a variety of Italian vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. The vegetables are grilled to perfection and topped with creamy goat cheese, making for a flavorful and satisfying low-carb side dish or main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 medium eggplant (sliced)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup goat cheese (crumbled)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant slices with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and lightly charred.
4. Once the vegetables are cooked, arrange them on a platter and sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

Grilled Italian vegetables with goat cheese offer a flavorful, low-carb alternative to heavy pasta dishes. The smoky grilled vegetables paired with the creamy, tangy goat cheese create a satisfying combination that’s perfect for a keto-friendly lunch or dinner. This dish is also a wonderful vegetarian option for a barbecue.

Grilled Swordfish with Lemon and Capers

This grilled swordfish is a flavorful and light keto-friendly option that features the richness of the fish balanced with zesty lemon and briny capers. The grill adds a smoky element to the swordfish, making it a perfect addition to any low-carb barbecue. This recipe is simple yet elegant and is packed with protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 tablespoons capers (rinsed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the swordfish steaks with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
3. Grill the swordfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is flaking easily with a fork.
4. Once the swordfish is grilled, top each steak with capers and garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Serve immediately with your choice of side dish.

Grilled swordfish with lemon and capers is a light and flavorful keto-friendly dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. The combination of lemon and capers adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavor of the swordfish. It’s a perfect low-carb lunch or dinner option for seafood lovers looking for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic

Grilled lamb chops are a keto-friendly and flavorful choice for any barbecue. Marinated with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, these tender lamb chops are grilled to perfection, providing a rich, savory flavor. This dish is perfect for a sophisticated lunch or dinner, packed with protein and healthy fats, while remaining low in carbs.

Ingredients:

• 8 lamb chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the marinade over the lamb chops and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the lamb chops for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic are a deliciously rich and flavorful keto-friendly dish. The marinade infuses the lamb with savory, herbal notes, while the grilling adds a smoky depth. This dish is perfect for those seeking a satisfying, low-carb meal full of protein and healthy fats.

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This grilled shrimp and avocado salad is a light, refreshing, and keto-friendly dish that combines smoky grilled shrimp with creamy avocado and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s a perfect low-carb option for lunch, offering a satisfying combination of healthy fats, protein, and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 ripe avocados (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula or spinach)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the dressing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, avocado slices, and grilled shrimp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Grilled shrimp and avocado salad is a perfect keto-friendly, low-carb lunch. The smoky shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado, and the lemon dressing adds a bright, refreshing touch. It’s an ideal dish for those looking for a light yet filling meal full of healthy fats and protein.

Grilled Turkey Burgers with Pesto and Mozzarella

These grilled turkey burgers are a delicious and healthy low-carb alternative to traditional burgers. The turkey is flavored with Italian herbs, grilled to perfection, and topped with creamy mozzarella and basil pesto for a burst of flavor. This keto-friendly burger is juicy, satisfying, and perfect for a lunch or dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced)
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 large lettuce leaves (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground turkey with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 4 burger patties.
4. Grill the turkey burgers for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last minute of grilling, top each burger with a slice of mozzarella cheese and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
6. Serve the burgers on large lettuce leaves instead of buns, and top with a spoonful of pesto sauce.

Grilled turkey burgers with pesto and mozzarella offer a keto-friendly twist on the classic burger. The juicy turkey patties are enhanced with Italian herbs and paired with creamy mozzarella and vibrant pesto, creating a satisfying and flavorful low-carb meal. Served in lettuce wraps, they make for a healthy, filling lunch or dinner.

Note: More recipes are coming soon