Ah, summer – the perfect time for firing up the grill, soaking up the sun, and enjoying a delicious BBQ with the family. But let's face it, finding recipes that both kids and adults will love can sometimes feel like a challenge. We've got you covered with some mouthwatering BBQ recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
1. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Who says BBQ has to be all about meat? These grilled veggie skewers are not only colorful and appetizing but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. Plus, they're super easy to make!
Ingredients:
- Assorted veggies (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, mushrooms, onions, etc.)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: your favorite seasoning blend
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the veggies into bite-sized pieces.
- Thread the veggies onto skewers, alternating colors for a vibrant presentation.
- Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning blend.
- Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve hot and watch them disappear!
2. BBQ Chicken Tacos
Tacos are always a hit with kids, and when you add BBQ chicken into the mix, you've got a winning combination that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- BBQ sauce
- Tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, flipping once to coat both sides.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with BBQ chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad
No summer BBQ is complete without a refreshing salad, and this watermelon feta salad is a deliciously unexpected twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
- Cubed watermelon
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Balsamic glaze
- Optional: arugula for added greens
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
- Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and gently toss to coat.
- If desired, serve the salad over a bed of arugula for some extra greens.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
4. BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kebabs
These sweet and savory kebabs are a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- Fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- BBQ sauce
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: bell peppers, onions, or other favorite veggies
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the chicken, pineapple, and any additional veggies onto skewers, alternating between ingredients.
- Brush the skewers with BBQ sauce.
- Grill the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
- Serve hot and watch them disappear!
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a quintessential summer BBQ side dish, and when you slather it with flavourful herb butter, it takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
- Butter, softened
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or basil), chopped
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the chopped fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grill the corn directly on the grill grates for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender.
- Remove the corn from the grill and immediately slather with the herb butter.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Top Tips for a Stress-Free BBQ with Kids
- Create a kid-friendly serving station: Set up a designated area with plastic plates, cups, and utensils that are easy for little hands to use.
- Plan some outdoor activities: Keep the kids entertained with fun outdoor games like bean bag toss, water balloon toss, or even a scavenger hunt.
- Have a designated adult supervisor for younger children: With so much excitement happening around the grill, it's important to have a responsible adult keeping an eye on the little ones to ensure their safety.
- Get them involved: Let your kids help with meal prep or setting the table. It's a great way to teach them about food and cooking while also keeping them entertained.
- Don't forget the snacks: Keep hungry tummies at bay by having some healthy snacks on hand, like cut-up fruit or veggie sticks with dip.
With these BBQ recipes and tips, your summer cookout is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy some delicious food and quality time together in the great outdoors.