Summer. It’s always been my favorite season. Maybe it’s the former school teacher in me or the fact that I have a June birthday. Regardless, there’s something about that warm summer breeze, the cool, lush grass between your toes, the smoky bonfires that lead to s’mores and sticky fingers. Also the late nights you spend with friends because well, it’s summer!
Another thing I love about summer? Barbecuing, grilling, cooking out…whatever you call it, I love it. I love it because it requires little prep, you can make such delicious and healthy meals, and it requires minimal cleanup! And mamas, guess what? Girls can grill too! So, I am here to share with you my top 3 favorite recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.
Burgers and Brats
First off, we get our meat from a local butcher, Frobose Meat Locker in Pemberville. They have THE best brats. And I prefer getting ground beef so that I can “doctor” up my burgers however I would like depending on what I fancy that particular evening. But, my go-to seasonings are salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne. Turn your grill on high heat. The key is to only flip your burgers once! I like to grill mine for about 5 minutes on each side for a medium-well burger. If you get a flare-up, cover the grill. Cutting off the oxygen should quell the flames. Otherwise, always keep your preferred summer beverage in your hand to put out the fire. But seriously. Lastly, allow your burgers to rest a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the juices redistribute into the meat.
Grilled Chicken Gyros
We just recently made this and oh. my. goodness. So simple and so absolutely tasty. The kids even liked them so that’s a win-win in my book! The recipe is linked here. We also buy naan and put that in tin foil, pop it on the grill for a few minutes and it is to die for!
Veggie, Steak, or Chicken Kebabs
Kebabs are perfect because they are versatile and people can be choosy. And if you have a toddler in your house, you definitely know what I am talking about. I use this marinade recipe linked here. Some of our favorites to put on our kebabs are red peppers, yellow peppers, red-skinned potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes, and onion. Grilling tip-put all of your veggies on one skewer and your meat on another. I know it looks pretty when they are all mixed together but I love how I can cook things more evenly when the veggies are on their own separate skewers. When they are ready we serve it over rice or quinoa.
There are so many great grilling recipes out there that take no time at all. So mamas, go soak up that sun, play with those kiddos, get that barbecue going, and enjoy your beautiful summer.
