24+ Fresh & Flavorful Summer Cookout Recipes Everyone Will Love

There’s something magical about a summer cookout—the smell of the grill, the sound of laughter, and a table full of vibrant, mouthwatering dishes shared with friends and family under the sun.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue, planning a 4th of July bash, or hosting a casual backyard get-together, having a variety of recipes on hand can turn your cookout from basic to unforgettable.

In this roundup, we’ve gathered 24+ summer cookout recipes that are perfect for sizzling days and starry nights.

From juicy grilled meats and seafood to fresh salads, flavorful sides, and even some refreshing veggie options, this list has something for every craving and crowd.

These recipes are not only easy to make, but they also pack in bold flavors and seasonal ingredients that scream summer.

So grab your tongs, fire up the grill, and let’s dive into a feast that celebrates the best of summer—one delicious dish at a time.

24+ Fresh & Flavorful Summer Cookout Recipes Everyone Will Love

Summer is the season for gathering, grilling, and creating unforgettable moments around the table—and with these 24+ summer cookout recipes, you’re all set to do just that.

Whether you’re a fan of smoky BBQ classics, vibrant salads, or unique twists on grilled favorites, there’s no shortage of delicious inspiration here to fuel your outdoor feasting.

So next time the weather’s warm and you’re looking to impress your guests (or just treat yourself), revisit this list and try something new.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers

These Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers bring tropical flair to your summer cookout. Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy blend, then grilled to perfection alongside caramelized pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers.

They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and bursting with sunny flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and olive oil. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers, alternating ingredients for color and variety.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
5. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and grill marks appear.
6. Serve hot with an optional sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime.

These skewers are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any cookout spread.

The juicy pineapple balances the savory chicken perfectly, while the marinade infuses everything with a sweet and tangy punch. They’re easy to prep ahead and just as tasty the next day.

Smoky Chipotle Street Corn (Elote)

A cookout isn’t complete without a killer side dish, and this Smoky Chipotle Street Corn is just that.

Inspired by the classic Mexican elote, this version takes charred corn on the cob and slathers it with a zesty chipotle-lime crema, crumbled cotija cheese, and a dusting of smoky chili powder.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears fresh corn, husked
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tbsp adobo sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• Chili powder or Tajín, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high and grill corn, turning occasionally, until slightly charred all over, about 10 minutes.
2. While the corn grills, mix together mayo, sour cream, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
3. Remove grilled corn from the grill and immediately brush with the chipotle-lime sauce.
4. Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese and dust with chili powder or Tajín.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

This street corn is bold, smoky, and addictive. It’s the kind of side that disappears in minutes and keeps guests coming back for more.

The heat from the chipotle and the creamy tang from the sauce make every bite crave-worthy.

Peach and Burrata Pasta Salad

This Peach and Burrata Pasta Salad is a fresh, sophisticated twist on classic pasta salad—perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Sweet peaches, creamy burrata, and peppery arugula come together with al dente pasta and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a dish that balances flavor and texture beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz short pasta (like fusilli or farfalle)
• 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
• 1 ball burrata cheese
• 2 cups arugula
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, toss cooled pasta with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced peaches, arugula, and basil, and gently toss to combine.
4. Tear burrata and place pieces on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

This salad is the essence of summer in every bite. Juicy peaches add a touch of sweetness, the burrata gives it a luxurious creaminess, and the balsamic glaze ties everything together.

It’s light but satisfying—ideal for serving alongside grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Citrus-Marinated Grilled Shrimp Tacos

These Citrus-Marinated Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a light and refreshing option for your summer cookout.

The shrimp is marinated in a bright citrus blend, then grilled to perfection and tucked into soft tortillas with a tangy slaw for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp honey
• Jalapeño slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and marinate for 20–30 minutes in the fridge.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
3. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp on tortillas, adding a spoonful of cabbage slaw, and drizzling with the lime crema. Garnish with cilantro and jalapeño slices.

These tacos are a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and smoky grilled shrimp.

The creamy lime sauce adds a cool contrast to the spicy kick of the shrimp, making these tacos a fun and vibrant summer dish. They’re perfect for any backyard fiesta.

Grilled Vegetable Platter with Herbed Yogurt Dip

This Grilled Vegetable Platter with Herbed Yogurt Dip is a healthy and satisfying side dish that celebrates the flavors of summer.

Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are grilled until tender and smoky, then served with a refreshing yogurt dip packed with fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 red bell pepper, halved and seeded
• 1 yellow bell pepper, halved and seeded
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates or brush vegetables with olive oil.
2. Grill zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Season with salt and pepper while grilling.
3. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, dill, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange grilled vegetables on a platter and serve with herbed yogurt dip on the side for dipping.

The combination of smoky grilled vegetables and a cool, creamy dip is irresistible.

The herbed yogurt adds a tangy freshness that complements the charred flavor of the veggies, making this platter a perfect accompaniment to any cookout spread. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy greens!

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Balsamic

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Balsamic is a refreshing, sweet-savory combo that’s perfect for hot summer days.

The juicy, crisp watermelon pairs beautifully with briny feta, and fresh mint gives the dish an aromatic lift. A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds depth, making this salad the ultimate summer treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss.
4. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing bite.

This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with contrast.

The sweet, juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the salty feta, while the mint and balsamic vinegar round out the flavors. It’s a perfect side dish for those long summer afternoons or as a starter at a casual gathering.

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Pickled Red Onions

These BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful combination of smoky, tender chicken with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all piled high on soft buns.

Topped with crunchy pickled red onions, these sliders are a great option for a crowd-pleasing dish at your summer cookout.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 12 slider buns
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for 6–8 minutes per side, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
2. In a small saucepan, warm BBQ sauce over low heat. Once chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce, coating each piece evenly.
3. For pickled onions: In a small bowl, mix the sliced red onions with apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to make a quick sauce.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading the mustard-mayo sauce on the buns, then layering with BBQ chicken and pickled red onions.

These sliders are bursting with flavor from the tangy BBQ sauce and creamy mustard-mayo spread.

The addition of the pickled onions gives a burst of acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken. Perfect for serving at any cookout or picnic!

Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa are a tropical twist on the classic taco, perfect for a lighter summer meal.

Fresh white fish, like tilapia or mahi-mahi, is grilled and served with a vibrant mango salsa that brings sweetness and freshness to each bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (tilapia, mahi-mahi, or cod)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Rub fish fillets with olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill fish for 3–4 minutes per side until it flakes easily with a fork.
3. While the fish is grilling, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir gently to combine.
4. Warm tortillas on the grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly charred.
5. Assemble tacos by flaking the grilled fish and placing it on the tortillas. Top with mango salsa and serve immediately.

The fresh, fruity mango salsa gives these tacos a refreshing, vibrant kick that pairs perfectly with the delicate grilled fish.

This dish is light yet full of flavor, making it ideal for a summer cookout by the beach or the pool.

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese Skewers are a bite-sized version of the classic Caprese salad—easy to make, delicious, and perfect for grazing at a cookout.

The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze, creates a flavor explosion in every skewer.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 package fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto wooden skewers, alternating the ingredients.
2. In a small saucepan, bring balsamic vinegar and honey to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until the vinegar has reduced by half and is syrupy.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or chill until ready to serve.

These Caprese skewers are an easy and elegant appetizer that can be assembled in minutes.

The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil is elevated by the tangy balsamic glaze, making them a show-stopping treat for your guests.

Cajun Grilled Corn on the Cob

This Cajun Grilled Corn on the Cob adds a spicy kick to your cookout with its zesty Cajun seasoning and smoky char.

It’s a great side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until all sides are charred and tender.
3. Brush the grilled corn with melted butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoky heat from the Cajun spices perfectly complements the sweet corn, creating a mouthwatering side that’s a crowd favorite at any cookout.

It’s simple, flavorful, and ready in just a few minutes.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad

This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory to your summer spread.

Juicy peaches are grilled to caramelized perfection and paired with creamy burrata, arugula, and a light balsamic glaze, making it a fresh, vibrant addition to your cookout.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 ball burrata cheese
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Brush peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill peaches, cut side down, for 3–4 minutes until grill marks form and the fruit softens.
3. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture has reduced and thickened.
4. Arrange arugula on a platter, top with grilled peach halves, and tear the burrata over the salad.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil.

The sweet grilled peaches and creamy burrata make this salad an elegant and refreshing dish for your cookout.

It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will elevate your summer menu.

Sriracha Honey Grilled Chicken Wings

These Sriracha Honey Grilled Chicken Wings are a fantastic mix of spicy, sweet, and smoky. The Sriracha adds heat, while the honey balances it with a touch of sweetness.

Perfect for grilling, these wings are a surefire hit for any cookout.

Ingredients:

• 12 chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix together Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Toss chicken wings in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge.
3. Grill wings for 8-10 minutes per side, until crispy and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Once cooked, transfer wings to a serving platter and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

These wings are a delicious combination of spicy heat and sweetness, with a touch of smokiness from the grill.

They’re sure to become a favorite finger food at your next cookout, perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Spicy Grilled Sausage and Peppers

Spicy Grilled Sausage and Peppers is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for cookouts.

The smoky sausage pairs beautifully with sweet, charred bell peppers and onions, all served in a bun or on its own for a savory and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 spicy Italian sausages (or your favorite sausage variety)
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 soft sandwich rolls (optional)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle the sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill sausages for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F).
3. Grill the peppers and onions alongside the sausages for 6–8 minutes, until they’re tender and slightly charred.
4. Slice the sausages and serve in rolls with the grilled peppers and onions. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.

This hearty dish is ideal for a relaxed summer meal.

The combination of spicy sausage and smoky-sweet grilled vegetables is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether served in rolls or on a plate, it’s a surefire hit.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Feta and Dill

A light, refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Feta and Dill is perfect for balancing out the richer, heavier dishes at your cookout.

The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are enhanced with tangy feta and fresh dill, making it a cool, flavorful side.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh dill over the top before serving.

This salad is light, crisp, and filled with the fresh flavors of summer.

The creamy feta adds richness, while the dill and red wine vinegar balance the flavors, creating a perfect side dish to complement any grilled protein.

Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs

Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs are juicy and flavorful with a perfect blend of citrus and garlic.

The marinated chicken thighs are grilled to golden perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours).
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for 6–8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crispy.
4. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

These grilled chicken thighs are juicy, aromatic, and perfectly charred.

The garlic and lemon marinade gives them a refreshing, bright flavor, making them an easy and delicious addition to any cookout.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Pineapple Salsa is a sweet and smoky twist on traditional salsa, with the caramelized pineapple adding a tropical touch.

This salsa is perfect as a topping for grilled meats, tacos, or served with tortilla chips as a refreshing appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Place pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the pineapple softens.
2. Remove the pineapple from the grill and chop it into small pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper, and add honey for extra sweetness if desired.
4. Serve immediately with grilled meats, tacos, or tortilla chips.

This salsa is bursting with sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.

It’s a fun and vibrant addition to your cookout spread, bringing a touch of tropical flair to your summer meals.

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Asparagus

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.

The fresh asparagus is seasoned with garlic and topped with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory bite that’s light and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Toss asparagus in olive oil and season with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill asparagus for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
3. Remove from grill and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
4. Serve immediately as a side dish to any grilled meat.

This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Asparagus is easy to make and full of flavor.

The Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy richness, while the garlic enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus. It’s the perfect side for any cookout.

Avocado and Black Bean Salad

Avocado and Black Bean Salad is a fresh, hearty, and nutritious dish that’s ideal for a summer cookout.

The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the tender black beans, while lime and cilantro add brightness to each bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes for a cooler salad.

This Avocado and Black Bean Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.

It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky, and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a standalone dish. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Lemon Butter

These Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Lemon Butter are a quick and flavorful seafood option perfect for your summer cookout.

The shrimp are marinated in a zesty garlic-lemon mixture, then grilled to perfection and drizzled with a rich, buttery sauce that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers (about 4-5 shrimp per skewer).
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter and chopped parsley.
5. Serve shrimp skewers hot, drizzled with garlic lemon butter and a side of lemon wedges.

These shrimp skewers are juicy, tender, and packed with garlic and lemon flavors.

The garlic butter brings richness to every bite, making them an irresistible appetizer or main dish for your cookout.

Grilled Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Aioli

Grilled Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, with a smoky, caramelized flavor from the grill.

Paired with a creamy chipotle aioli, these fries are the perfect side dish for a summer cookout, offering a satisfying blend of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Toss sweet potato fries in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the fries in a grill basket or on foil for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chipotle pepper, lime juice, and garlic powder to make the aioli.
4. Serve sweet potato fries with chipotle aioli for dipping.

The combination of the naturally sweet, smoky grilled sweet potatoes and the spicy, creamy chipotle aioli is irresistible.

This dish will add a unique twist to your cookout and pair well with burgers, grilled meats, or even as a standalone snack.

Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Skewers

Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Skewers are a fun and refreshing dish that combines the salty, squeaky goodness of grilled halloumi with the juicy, sweet bite of watermelon.

Perfect for a summer cookout, these skewers are light, yet packed with flavor and textures.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
• 2 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Thread halloumi and watermelon onto skewers, alternating between the two.
2. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the halloumi has grill marks and is slightly melted.
4. Drizzle with honey (if using) and sprinkle with chopped mint before serving.

These Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Skewers are a beautiful, refreshing dish that’s light, sweet, and savory.

The salty halloumi pairs wonderfully with the juicy watermelon, making it the perfect dish to serve as an appetizer or light side at your summer cookout.

Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash Salad

This Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash Salad is a light and healthy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the summer vegetables.

Grilled to perfection and paired with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect addition to your cookout spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 yellow squashes, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Toss zucchini and yellow squash slices in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the squash for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
3. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, combine grilled squash, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Gently toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

This grilled vegetable salad is simple yet flavorful, with the smokiness from the grill and the freshness from the herbs and feta.

It’s a great light side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.

Grilled BBQ Meatballs

Grilled BBQ Meatballs are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic meatball.

Perfectly seasoned and grilled to smoky perfection, they’re tossed in tangy BBQ sauce for an irresistible appetizer or main dish at your cookout.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-2 inch meatballs.
3. Grill meatballs for 7-9 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and browned on all sides.
4. Toss the grilled meatballs in BBQ sauce and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

These BBQ meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, with the smoky grilled flavor perfectly complementing the tangy BBQ sauce.

Serve them on their own or with toothpicks as a tasty appetizer for your cookout.

Grilled Avocado with Shrimp and Mango Salsa

Grilled Avocado with Shrimp and Mango Salsa is a unique and delicious dish that combines the creamy richness of grilled avocado with the sweetness of shrimp and vibrant mango salsa.

It’s a perfect starter or light main course for a summer cookout.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush avocado halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the avocado halves for 2-3 minutes, cut side down, until they have grill marks.
3. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa.
6. Top the grilled avocado halves with grilled shrimp and a generous spoonful of mango salsa.

This dish offers a perfect combination of creamy, smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors.

The grilled avocado provides a rich base for the shrimp, while the mango salsa adds a fresh, tangy burst that makes each bite delightful.