Don't Wait For Summer: Break Out The Grill This Spring For These Backyard Party Dishes (Slideshow)
So if you're itching to cook outside just as much as we are, we've got your back with 12 incredible grilled recipes that are perfect for spring entertaining. From a beautiful grilled asparagus salad to a barbecue chicken flatbread to a tangy pineapple mango salsa, each of these recipes highlights the smoky flavor of the grill that has been missing from your life.
Barbecue Chicken Flatbread
Smoky barbecue sauce, meaty bacon, and the lightly charred flavor of a perfectly grilled chicken breast embrace all the flavors of the grill in this party-ready flatbread. For an extra dose of chargrilled flavor, throw the pizza dough on the grill before putting together the entire dish.
Bruschetta with Ricotta, Grilled Eggplant, and Mint
Grilling an eggplant gives this frequently bland vegetable a tender, mouthwatering flavor. Paired with a lightly salted ricotta and mint, this simple appetizer is packed with fresh flavor.
For the Bruschetta with Ricotta, Grilled Eggplant, and Mint recipe, click here.
Chicken Tawook Skewers
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a standard on Mediterranean menus across the country, but this homemade recipe stands far above any restaurant. Soy sauce, oregano, paprika, tomato paste, yogurt, and garlic create a bold, deeply succulent marinade that makes for a juicy chicken skewer.
Curry Grilled Shrimp
Grilling shrimp is quick and easy, making for a party appetizer or main dish that can be completed in under 10 minutes. This shrimp recipe contains just four ingredients, but thanks to the boldness of curry powder, you're not left looking for spice.
Grilled Asparagus Salad with Spicy Herbed Pesto
Asparagus is a favorite spring vegetable, so no dish is more appropriate for a seasonal backyard barbecue than this one. A touch of pepper sauce adds a bit of heat to a traditional, herbaceous pesto, creating a salad that is totally one-of-a-kind.
For the Grilled Asparagus Salad with Spicy Herbed Pesto recipe, click here.
Grilled Buffalo Wings
Everyone loves a fiery chicken wing appetizer, and this recipe certainly brings the spice. Grilling the wings not only makes them healthier than the traditional frying method, but a perfect sear locks in rich, charred flavors.
Grilled Chicken Nachos
The beloved nacho with gooey cheese, a refreshing dose of sour cream, and a tangy pico de gallo gets yet another layer of flavor with a perfectly blackened chicken breast. This dish is family-friendly and thus perfect for any group you're entertaining.
Grilled Eggplant and Goat Cheese Salad
A perfectly charred eggplant pairs with creamy, tangy goat cheese, crunchy pine nuts, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a side dish that hits all the right notes.
For the Grilled Eggplant and Goat Cheese Salad recipe, click here.
Grilled Fish Tacos and Taco Sauce
This light taco dish showcases the best thing about grilling season: The freshness of high-quality ingredients can shine through. Charred white fish, a fresh cabbage slaw, and a refreshing sour cream sauce create a crisp dish that is perfect for spring.
For the Grilled Fish Tacos and Taco Sauce recipe, click here.
Grilled New York Strip Crostini
You can't have any grill-themed menu without a perfectly seared steak. This crostini is a one-two punch of seasonal grilling thanks to a perfectly toasted piece of French baguette and a tender, juicy New York strip.
Grilled Pineapple Mango Salsa
Syrupy-sweet pineapple gets new dynamics of flavor when grilled, as proven in this salsa. Fresh lime juice adds some much-needed acidity while fresh jalapenos bring the heat. For the perfect bite, serve with some heavily salted tortilla chips.
Whiskey Ginger Grilled Salmon
If you're looking for one special main course that will really wow your guests, look no further than this dish. Whiskey, teriyaki sauce, and ginger give this salmon-rich dish an Asian-inspired flavor that pairs perfectly with any number of spring vegetable sides.