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 concerning the sizzle of the grill and the scent of charcoal within the air. There’s one thing magical about cooking open air – after all, 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 just a few weeks and whereas I’m nonetheless debating between grilled rooster thighs and grilling marinated salmon for the primary course, I do know that our favourite grilled corn on the cob can be on the menu!
Why Grilled Corn Steals the Present
In the event you’ve by no means grilled corn earlier than, the kernels get completely tender with stunning char marks, and the pure sugars caramelize into one thing completely divine. The smoky taste is unimaginable to duplicate every other approach.
I’ve been making grilled corn on the cob this manner for years. Youngsters adore it and adults adore it, and you’ll serve it as is with butter, as Mexican grilled corn (elote), or in a grilled corn salad.
Right here’s what’s nice about it: you possibly can 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 group rooster or group seafood, I’ve bought you coated. These grilled rooster thighs I discussed? They keep extremely juicy and develop probably the most wonderful crispy pores and skin. You may as well make grilled rooster breast (which I believe it simply as tasty), and add it to a rooster pesto sandwich or grilled rooster salad.
For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp skewers are all the time successful. You possibly can grill them up shortly or use this grilled shrimp marinade when you have a bit extra time. In the event you’re feeling adventurous, grilled fish tacos deliver 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.

Don’t overlook the facility of nice grilled aspect dishes! When you’ve bought your corn and protein determined, 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 aspect dish. Typically we like making a grilled Caesar salad or these easy grilled potatoes in foil. Or, you possibly can combine up elote salad with that grilled corn!
If you wish to go all-out along with your vegetable recreation, try our information to the finest grilled greens.
Finish with a Grilled Dessert!
To finish the meal, take into consideration a grilled dessert! We love grilled apples: grilling concentrates their sweetness and provides refined smoky notes which might be good with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
You may as well make grilled bananas, and even grilled pineapple or grilled peaches!
My High Grilling Ideas 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 may be minimize hours prematurely. Your marinades can be extra flavorful when prepped forward, and also you’ll really get to take pleasure in your personal celebration.
- Hold it easy. The perfect 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. Do this Grill Temperature Cheat Sheet for off-the-cuff grilling.
- Have backup plans. Climate may be unpredictable, so know which objects may 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!