Beyond Burgers: Grilling For Every Occasion

Your barbecue is a versatile culinary canvas, capable of so much more than burgers and hot dogs. It’s an outdoor oven, a smoker, and a high-heat searing tool all in one. By thinking beyond the grill grate's usual suspects, you can unlock a world of flavours and transform your outdoor cooking into an experience for every occasion.

Here's how to go beyond the burger and grill for every meal.

The Brunch Grill

Morning meals gain an unexpected depth of flavor when cooked outdoors. The smoky essence of the grill adds a new dimension to classic breakfast fare.

• Grilled French Toast: The grill's high heat creates a perfect, crispy crust on the outside while leaving the inside soft and custardy. The grill marks add a stunning presentation.
• Smoked Bacon: Place bacon on a wire rack over indirect heat. The smoke infuses the meat as it cooks slowly, creating the crispiest, most flavorful bacon you've ever had.
• Grilled Fruit with Yogurt: Halve peaches, plums, or figs and grill them cut-side down for a few minutes. The heat caramelizes their sugars, creating a sweet and smoky topping for yogurt or pancakes.

The Sophisticated Side

Grilling vegetables transforms them from a simple side dish into a main event. The char from the grates brings out their natural sweetness and creates a perfect texture.

• Grilled Asparagus: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill for just a few minutes until tender-crisp. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan for an elegant finish.
• Smoked Corn on the Cob: Soak corn in its husks for 30 minutes, then place it directly on the grill. The steam inside the husk cooks the kernels to a tender sweetness, and the smoky aroma is unbeatable.
• Grilled Halloumi: This firm cheese holds its shape beautifully on the grill. The exterior develops a perfect golden crust while the inside remains soft. Serve drizzled with honey or lemon juice.

The Ocean's Catch

Don’t be intimidated by grilling seafood. Its fast-cooking nature and a little smoke make for a simple yet stunning meal.

• Cedar-Plank Salmon: A classic for a reason. Soaking a cedar plank infuses the salmon with a delicate, smoky flavour while keeping it incredibly moist. It's a foolproof method for a perfect, flakey fillet.
• Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Quickly grill shrimp until they turn pink. The char from the grill adds a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Seared Scallops: For a gourmet-level treat, place scallops directly on the hot grates for just a minute or two per side. The result is a perfect crust with a tender, sweet interior.

The Sweet Finish

End your meal with a dessert that's both unexpected and incredibly delicious. The grill’s heat and flame take simple ingredients to the next level.

• Grilled Pineapple: Grill thick pineapple rings until they soften and the sugars caramelize. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a taste of the tropics.
• Grilled Pound Cake: A slice of pound cake becomes a new dessert when toasted on the grill. The edges get a delicious crunch and a kiss of smoky flavour, perfect for serving with fresh berries.
• Campfire Cones: Fill a waffle cone with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and your favorite fruit. Wrap in foil and place on the grill until everything is gooey and melted. It’s a nostalgic treat with a modern twist.