29+ Delicious Summer BBQ Appetizer Recipes You Need to Try

Summer BBQs are synonymous with good food, fun, and great company.

Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard gathering or a full-fledged grill fest, the key to an unforgettable BBQ lies in the appetizers.

These bite-sized dishes are the perfect way to kick off the festivities and keep your guests satisfied while you fire up the main course.

From grilled skewers to tangy dips and everything in between, BBQ appetizers set the tone for the entire meal.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up 29+ summer BBQ appetizer recipes that are sure to make your next BBQ a hit.

These recipes are full of vibrant flavors, easy-to-make ingredients, and, of course, the smoky deliciousness that only a BBQ can bring.

Whether you’re into classic flavors or want to add a little twist to your summer menu, you’ll find something for every palate.

So, let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that will leave your guests asking for seconds (or thirds)!

29+ Delicious Summer BBQ Appetizer Recipes You Need to Try

As you prepare for your next summer BBQ, keep these 29+ BBQ appetizer recipes in mind to add variety and flavor to your spread.

These dishes aren’t just appetizers—they’re conversation starters, flavor boosters, and the perfect way to keep your guests coming back for more.

Whether you’re grilling shrimp skewers, assembling bite-sized veggie bites, or mixing up a tangy dip, each of these recipes will elevate your BBQ experience.

The best part? They’re easy to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and are guaranteed to impress.

So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to serve up some of the most delicious appetizers of the season.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Crostini

Juicy grilled peaches, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze come together on crispy toasted baguette slices for a summer appetizer that’s both elegant and incredibly simple.

These crostini bring out the sweet and savory contrast that’s perfect for hot weather and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup burrata cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil. Grill for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred. Set aside.
2. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and grill cut side down for 2–3 minutes until grill marks form. Remove and let cool slightly. Slice thinly.
3. Spread burrata cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
4. Top with grilled peach slices, a few pieces of torn basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper to finish.

These crostini are a guaranteed hit, balancing the creaminess of burrata with the charred sweetness of peaches.

Serve them as a refreshing opener that feels light yet indulgent—ideal for summer entertaining.

BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

These spicy, cheesy jalapeño poppers are wrapped in crispy bacon and kissed by smoky BBQ flavor.

A staple at any summer grill session, they’re a spicy treat that’s impossible to eat just one of—making them a go-to party favorite.

Ingredients:

• 10 jalapeños, halved and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 10 slices of bacon, halved
• BBQ sauce, for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
4. Wrap each filled jalapeño with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
5. Grill poppers for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.
6. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a smoky glaze.

These poppers pack a flavorful punch that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.

The smoky bacon, melted cheese, and hint of BBQ sauce create a delicious trifecta that embodies the spirit of summer cookouts.

Charred Corn and Avocado Salsa Cups

A zesty, fresh take on chips and dip, these mini salsa cups are made with grilled corn, creamy avocado, and a splash of lime, all served in scoop-style tortilla chips.

They’re refreshing, colorful, and easy for guests to grab and go—no plate needed!

Ingredients:

• 2 ears of corn, husked
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bag of scoop-style tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Grill the corn over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, rotating until charred. Let cool, then slice off kernels.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, avocado, onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Carefully spoon a heaping tablespoon of salsa into each tortilla chip scoop.
4. Serve immediately on a large platter or tray.

These salsa cups are a vibrant and healthful addition to your BBQ spread.

They’re the perfect bite-sized blend of creamy, crunchy, and tangy—and they look as good as they taste, making them an instant favorite at summer parties.

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These grilled shrimp skewers are tossed in a spicy, smoky marinade and cooked to perfection on the grill.

The combination of heat from the spices and the natural sweetness of the shrimp makes them an irresistible appetizer for any BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro.

These shrimp skewers are both spicy and succulent, perfect for a quick and flavorful appetizer.

The marinade adds deep smoky notes, making them a memorable treat that everyone will enjoy.

Grilled Caprese Skewers

A fresh, Italian-inspired appetizer featuring all the bright, summery flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, these skewers are simple to assemble and pack a lot of punch.

They’re the perfect light and refreshing snack to balance out heavier BBQ dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 package fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers in an alternating pattern.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the skewers on the grill for 1–2 minutes, just to slightly warm the mozzarella and char the tomatoes.
4. Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

These skewers are simple yet elegant and offer a refreshing balance of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

They’re perfect for those who want a lighter appetizer without sacrificing flavor.

Grilled Steak Bites with Garlic Herb Butter

Tender pieces of steak are grilled to your preferred level of doneness, then drizzled with a rich and garlicky herb butter that takes these bites to the next level.

This hearty appetizer is ideal for meat lovers and adds a savory touch to your BBQ spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to high heat.
2. Toss steak cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill steak cubes for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. While the steak is grilling, prepare the garlic herb butter by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and thyme in a small bowl.
5. Once the steak is done, remove it from the grill and drizzle with the garlic herb butter. Serve immediately.

These grilled steak bites are a savory and indulgent appetizer that’s packed with flavor. The garlic herb butter melts into the warm steak, adding richness and depth.

It’s a great choice for a BBQ where you want to impress your guests with something a little heartier.

Grilled Mediterranean Veggie Platter

A colorful, healthy, and vibrant appetizer, this grilled Mediterranean veggie platter is filled with smoky, charred vegetables, complemented by a creamy tzatziki sauce.

It’s perfect for vegetarian guests or anyone looking for a light yet satisfying option at a summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, sliced into rings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Toss the zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onion in olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Grill the vegetables for about 4–5 minutes per side, until they are tender and have grill marks.
4. While the vegetables are grilling, combine all the ingredients for the tzatziki sauce in a bowl and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the grilled vegetables on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a generous side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

This grilled Mediterranean veggie platter is a perfect light and nutritious choice for a BBQ.

The smoky veggies are delicious on their own, but the creamy tzatziki sauce takes them to the next level, making this a crowd-pleaser even for non-vegetarians.

Mini BBQ Chicken Sliders

These mini BBQ chicken sliders are packed with tender, smoky chicken, topped with tangy barbecue sauce, and served on soft slider buns.

They’re a fun, bite-sized version of a BBQ classic that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 6 slider buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• Pickles, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Shred the cooked chicken breasts using two forks.
2. Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until well-coated.
3. Slice the slider buns in half and toast them lightly on the grill for 1–2 minutes.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a generous spoonful of BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
5. Top with a spoonful of coleslaw and a couple of pickle slices. Add the top half of the bun to complete the sliders.
6. Serve immediately, or cover with a damp cloth to keep them warm.

These mini BBQ chicken sliders are a perfect handheld appetizer that’s bursting with flavor.

The smoky, tangy chicken paired with the crunchy coleslaw makes for a satisfying bite that will quickly disappear at your BBQ.

Grilled Watermelon and Feta Skewers

A unique and refreshing appetizer, these grilled watermelon and feta skewers offer a sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for summer.

The grilling caramelizes the watermelon, enhancing its sweetness and making it the perfect contrast to the salty feta.

Ingredients:

• 1 small watermelon, cut into cubes
• 1 block of feta cheese, cut into cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the watermelon cubes, feta cubes, and mint leaves onto skewers, alternating between each.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until grill marks form on the watermelon.
5. Drizzle with honey and balsamic glaze before serving.

These grilled watermelon and feta skewers are the epitome of summer flavor.

The combination of sweet, smoky watermelon with creamy, salty feta and a touch of honey and balsamic glaze makes for an appetizer that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Grilled Sausage and Peppers Skewers

This classic combination of sausage and bell peppers is taken to the grill, where the smoky flavors intensify.

These skewers are easy to prepare, packed with savory flavors, and perfect for a hearty bite before the main course.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausages (your choice of spicy or mild), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss sausage pieces, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the sausage and veggies onto skewers, alternating between sausage, pepper, and onion.
4. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are cooked through and the veggies are tender and charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

These grilled sausage and pepper skewers bring a classic BBQ flavor to the grill, offering a smoky, savory, and slightly charred experience that’s perfect for sharing.

They’re hearty, satisfying, and great for any BBQ spread.

Avocado and Shrimp Ceviche Cups

This refreshing, citrusy ceviche pairs fresh shrimp with tangy lime and fresh avocado, served in crisp tortilla cups.

It’s a perfect light, zesty appetizer that’s great for hot summer days and brings a burst of flavor to your BBQ spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 mini tortilla cups (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, onion, and cucumber.
2. Add lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
3. Spoon the ceviche mixture into each mini tortilla cup.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges, if desired.

These shrimp and avocado ceviche cups are light and fresh, bursting with citrus flavors and creamy avocado.

The crispy tortilla cups make them easy to eat and perfect for a refreshing appetizer at your summer BBQ.

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Asparagus and bacon are a match made in heaven, and grilling them together brings out the smoky richness of the bacon while keeping the asparagus tender and slightly crisp.

This easy appetizer is sure to be a hit at your BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 12 slices of bacon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Take each asparagus stalk and wrap it with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks.
3. Drizzle the wrapped asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
5. Remove from the grill and, if desired, sprinkle with lemon zest for added brightness before serving.

These grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles offer a savory, crispy treat that’s perfect for a BBQ.

The combination of smoky bacon and fresh asparagus is irresistible, making this a perfect appetizer to kick off your BBQ.

Grilled Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeños

These spicy, cheesy jalapeños are perfect for those who like a little heat in their appetizers.

The combination of gooey melted cheese and smoky grilled flavor makes these a favorite at any BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 10 large jalapeños, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 12 slices of bacon
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
5. Grill the bacon-wrapped jalapeños for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

These grilled cheese-stuffed jalapeños are a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors.

The bacon adds a crispy texture while the melted cheese inside balances out the heat of the jalapeños. They’re a must-try for spice lovers!

Grilled Caprese Salad Bites

An elegant twist on the classic caprese salad, these grilled caprese salad bites are fresh, light, and bursting with flavor.

The grilling adds a delicious smokiness to the tomatoes, making this simple appetizer even more exciting.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers or toothpicks.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 1–2 minutes, just enough to warm the mozzarella and slightly char the tomatoes.
5. Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

These grilled caprese salad bites are a simple yet elegant addition to your BBQ spread.

The charred tomatoes and warm mozzarella add a smoky depth to the fresh basil, making them a refreshing and flavorful appetizer that everyone will love.

Grilled Pineapple and Prosciutto Skewers

The sweet and smoky flavor of grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the salty, savory taste of prosciutto.

These skewers are a perfect balance of sweet and salty, making them an irresistible appetizer for any summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
• 12 slices prosciutto
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Wrap each pineapple chunk with a slice of prosciutto.
3. Thread the wrapped pineapple onto skewers.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and grill the skewers for 3–4 minutes per side, until the pineapple is slightly caramelized and the prosciutto is crispy.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

These grilled pineapple and prosciutto skewers are a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors.

The caramelized pineapple pairs perfectly with the crispy prosciutto, creating a satisfying appetizer that adds a gourmet touch to your BBQ.

Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

These grilled chicken and pineapple tacos bring together smoky, juicy grilled chicken with the sweet burst of grilled pineapple.

Perfect for those looking for a light and flavorful bite to kick off their BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and shredded
• 1 small pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks.
3. Brush the pineapple rings with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Slice the grilled pineapple into small chunks.
5. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute.
6. Assemble tacos by adding shredded chicken and grilled pineapple to each tortilla.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

These chicken and pineapple tacos are the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and zesty, making them a refreshing appetizer that’s light yet full of flavor.

They’re sure to be a hit with guests who enjoy bold and bright tastes!

Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon Herb Marinade

Grilled halloumi cheese skewers are a savory, slightly crispy appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a zesty lemon herb marinade.

They offer a unique and delicious alternative to the typical grilled cheese options.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the Halloumi cubes onto skewers.
4. Brush the cheese skewers with the lemon herb marinade, then grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until the cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

These grilled halloumi skewers are the ideal savory bite.

The crispy cheese combined with the lemony marinade brings a tangy, satisfying flavor that will impress your guests and add a touch of gourmet to your BBQ.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites

Light, fresh, and creamy, these smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber bites are a refreshing appetizer perfect for a summer BBQ.

They’re easy to assemble and make a great cold appetizer that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 oz smoked salmon, sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the cucumber into thick rounds and arrange them on a serving platter.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese with lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Top each cucumber slice with a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Gently place a slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
5. Garnish with a small sprig of dill or a twist of lemon zest.

These smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber bites are light, refreshing, and full of flavor, making them the perfect appetizer for a summer BBQ.

They’re easy to prepare and offer a cool, creamy contrast to the hot, smoky foods typical of a BBQ.

Grilled BBQ Meatballs

These grilled BBQ meatballs are a smoky, tangy twist on the classic appetizer.

Grilled to perfection, these juicy meatballs are coated in a rich BBQ sauce that adds depth and sweetness, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or pork for a different twist)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, then roll into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the meatballs for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through.
5. Brush the cooked meatballs with BBQ sauce, allowing them to caramelize on the grill for an extra minute or two.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These grilled BBQ meatballs are flavorful, juicy, and satisfyingly smoky.

The addition of BBQ sauce gives them a tangy sweetness that’s perfect for a summer appetizer. Serve them with toothpicks for an easy, bite-sized treat!

Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Rolls

A delicious and elegant appetizer, these grilled zucchini rolls are filled with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs.

They’re a healthy yet indulgent choice that combines fresh, smoky flavors with a rich, creamy filling.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Slice the zucchini into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick) and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the zucchini strips for 2–3 minutes per side, until they are tender with grill marks.
4. While the zucchini is grilling, mix the goat cheese with basil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Once the zucchini is grilled, spread a thin layer of goat cheese mixture along each strip and roll them up.
6. Secure with toothpicks if necessary, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

These grilled zucchini and goat cheese rolls are both light and indulgent.

The smoky grilled zucchini combined with the creamy, tangy goat cheese creates a perfect bite-sized appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.

Grilled Eggplant Crostini with Tomato Basil Relish

These grilled eggplant crostinis are topped with a refreshing tomato basil relish, making for a savory and satisfying appetizer.

The eggplant serves as a great base for the bright and fresh toppings, creating a balanced bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 12 slices baguette or crusty bread
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the eggplant slices and bread slices with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant for 3–4 minutes per side until soft and slightly charred. Grill the bread for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the tomato relish.
5. To assemble, top each grilled eggplant slice with a spoonful of the tomato basil relish.
6. Serve immediately as an appetizer.

These grilled eggplant crostinis with tomato basil relish are a perfect balance of savory and fresh flavors.

The eggplant’s smoky depth is complemented by the tangy relish, creating a delicious bite that’s great for any BBQ.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Lemon Butter

These grilled shrimp skewers are packed with bold flavors from the garlic lemon butter marinade.

Quick and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer at your summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and brush them generously with the garlic lemon butter marinade.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until they’re opaque and cooked through.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

These grilled shrimp skewers are bursting with bright citrusy flavor and garlic richness.

They’re perfect for serving as an appetizer or light main dish at any summer BBQ.

Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms

These savory grilled stuffed mushrooms are filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs.

The grilling adds a smoky depth, making them a standout appetizer at any BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 12 large mushroom caps, stems removed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, pressing it down gently.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve warm as a tasty, bite-sized appetizer.

These grilled stuffed mushrooms are a rich, flavorful appetizer with creamy filling and smoky undertones.

They’re a great vegetarian option for your BBQ and sure to be a hit with guests.

Grilled Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Ranch Dip

These crispy, smoky sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and make the perfect side or appetizer.

Paired with a creamy, spicy chipotle ranch dip, they’re irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chipotle Ranch Dip:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce (minced)
• 1 tsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the fries on the grill in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and golden.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ranch dressing, chipotle in adobo sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the dip.
5. Serve the sweet potato fries hot with the chipotle ranch dip on the side.

These grilled sweet potato fries with chipotle ranch dip are a great smoky and spicy appetizer that offers a healthier take on traditional fries.

The creamy dip complements the sweet and savory fries perfectly, making them a crowd favorite at your BBQ.