Right here’s the go-to useful resource you want for grilling concepts this July 4! Use this to plan your menu for the vacation or any cookout!

With 4th of July is simply across the nook, I’m dreaming in regards to the sizzle of the grill and the scent of charcoal within the air. There’s one thing magical about cooking open air – in fact, all the things tastes higher with a touch of smoke, however I additionally love how grilling brings everybody collectively across the fireplace.
I’ve been planning our 4th of July menu for a couple of weeks and whereas I’m nonetheless debating between grilled hen thighs and grilling marinated salmon for the primary course, I do know that our favourite grilled corn on the cob shall be on the menu!
Why Grilled Corn Steals the Present
In case you’ve by no means grilled corn earlier than, the kernels get completely tender with lovely char marks, and the pure sugars caramelize into one thing completely divine. The smoky taste is not possible to copy every other manner.
I’ve been making grilled corn on the cob this fashion for years. Children find it irresistible and adults find it irresistible, and you’ll serve it as is with butter, as Mexican grilled corn (elote), or in a grilled corn salad.
Right here’s what makes it foolproof: you may grill it within the husk for steamy, tender kernels, or shuck it first for these attractive grill marks. (My private favourite is shucking it first to get these good grill marks!)
Grilled Dinner Concepts
Whether or not you’re workforce hen or workforce seafood, the grill has you lined. These grilled hen thighs I discussed? They keep extremely juicy and develop probably the most wonderful crispy pores and skin. You may also make grilled hen breast (which I believe it simply as tasty), and add it to a hen pesto sandwich or grilled hen salad.
For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp skewers are all the time successful. The bottom line is within the grilled shrimp marinade – it infuses a lot taste in simply a short while. In case you’re feeling adventurous, grilled fish tacos convey a enjoyable, contemporary twist. I additionally actually love this grilled tuna steak (it tastes so meaty!).
For these on the lookout for vegan or vegetarian grill concepts, our final grilled veggie burger, grilled tofu, or grilled eggplant parmesan are crowd-pleasers.


Whereas corn and your major proteins are doing their factor, don’t overlook the ability of nice grilled facet dishes. When you’ve acquired your corn state of affairs sorted, it’s time to consider the remainder of your unfold. I like creating a mixture of proteins and greens that’ll please everybody on the desk.
For greens, grilled zucchini, grilled inexperienced beans, or grilled squash are summer season must-haves. I can also’t resist making veggie kabobs – there’s one thing enjoyable about consuming off a stick that makes all the things style higher.
Grilled garlic bread is a enjoyable facet dish. Generally we like making a grilled Caesar salad or these easy grilled potatoes in foil. Or, combine up elote salad with that grilled corn!
If you wish to go all-out together with your vegetable sport, try our information to the greatest grilled greens.
Finish with a Grilled Dessert!
Right here’s a secret that’ll make your visitors do a double-take: make a grilled dessert! We love grilled apples: the warmth concentrates their sweetness and provides a delicate smoky be aware that’s completely divine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
You may also make grilled bananas and prime them with vanilla ice cream, and even grilled pineapple or grilled peaches!
My Prime Grilling Suggestions for Success
- Begin with the corn. Since grilled corn on the cob is so forgiving, it’s good for getting your grill temperature excellent when you prep all the things else.
- Prep forward. Most of your greens might be lower hours prematurely. Your marinades shall be extra flavorful when prepped forward, and also you’ll truly get to take pleasure in your individual celebration.
- Preserve it easy. The most effective grilled meals lets the pure flavors shine. Don’t overcomplicate issues – typically salt, pepper, and olive oil are all you want.
- Use our cheat sheet. Strive these Grill Temperature Cheat Sheet for off-the-cuff grilling.
- Have backup plans. Climate might be unpredictable, so know which objects might be completed within the oven if wanted.
What’s your go-to grilling transfer for the 4th? I’d love to listen to your favourite combos within the feedback beneath!