Unusual Grilling Recipes That Go Beyond Burgers & Hot Dogs

If you think grilling is just about burgers and hot dogs, it’s time to ignite your taste buds and fire up your imagination. Backyard barbecues deserve more than the usual fare—embrace a world of unusual grilling recipes that blend bold flavors, unexpected ingredients, and creative presentation. From sweet grilled fruit salads to inventive skewers and show-stopping sides, here’s your ultimate guide to making the next grill-out truly unforgettable.

Table of Contents

• Sticky Soy Steak Skewers
• Grilled Plum & Pancetta Panzanella Salad
• Honey Lime Grilled Corn
• Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
• Grilled Watermelon
• Easy Grilled Pizza
• Pesto Grilled Cheese on the Grill
• Grilled Rack of Lamb
• Frequently Asked Questions

Sticky Soy Steak Skewers

Break away from traditional barbecue and embrace these Sticky Soy Steak Skewers. Tender sirloin paired with red onion and grilled until perfectly charred, these skewers are elevated by a glaze combining soy sauce, chili-garlic, and honey for just the right balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.

• Key Features: Succulent beef, aromatic onions, and a sticky Asian-inspired sauce.
• Serving suggestions: Serve with fresh herbs or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness.
• Tip: Baste the skewers generously during grilling for maximum glaze coverage and flavor.

Grilled Plum & Pancetta Panzanella Salad

This modern twist on the classic Italian bread salad, Panzanella, stars grilled plums—an unexpected fruit that brings natural sweetness and a smoky flavor after a quick char on the grates.
Crispy pancetta adds salty crunch, while torn rustic bread soaks up every flavorful drop.

• Core ingredients: Ripe plums, crusty bread, pancetta, tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil.
• How to make it pop: Toss bread in olive oil before grilling to achieve a golden, crispy bite.
• Flavor profile: Sweet, smoky, savory—delightful harmony in each forkful.

Honey Lime Grilled Corn

Nothing says summer like grilled corn on the cob. Give this staple a fresh twist with a brush of honey-lime butter, which seeps into the kernels as they char, creating a sticky-sweet and bright finish that pairs with everything from tacos to grilled meats.

• Why it’s special: The honey-lime butter takes corn to the next level, adding both depth and zip.
• Pro tip: For an elevated presentation, sprinkle with cotija cheese and chopped cilantro after grilling.

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

These vibrant skewers combine the tropical sweetness of pineapple with juicy chicken, bell peppers, and red onion. Basted in a homemade teriyaki sauce, the Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a sweet-salty hit at any cookout.

• Ingredients highlight: Pineapple, chicken breast or thigh, red bell pepper, red onion, teriyaki glaze.
• Serving idea: Plate over coconut rice or a bright Asian slaw for a full meal.
• Tip: Pre-soak bamboo skewers to avoid burning, and grill at medium heat for juicy results.

Grilled Watermelon

Grilling brings out the inherent sweetness of watermelon, intensifying flavor and giving the fruit an unexpected smoky edge. Served with flaky salt and fresh herbs like basil or mint, grilled watermelon is a refreshing, visually striking side or dessert.

• Flavor options: Sprinkle with coarse salt and chopped mint for a traditional approach, or try basil for a nuanced twist.
• Method: Cut watermelon into thick wedges, brush lightly with oil, and grill until caramelized—about 4–5 minutes per side.
• Presentation: Serve warm with a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elevated touch.

Easy Grilled Pizza

Skip the oven and harness the high heat of the grill for your next pizza night. Grilled pizza delivers a crispy, charred crust while keeping the center soft and airy. Top with your favorites—think burrata, sliced peaches, or roasted veggies—for a restaurant-quality pie at home.

• Why grill pizza? The grill’s open flame yields a unique smoky flavor and perfectly cooked crust.
• Topping ideas: Traditional marinara and mozzarella, or try goat cheese, prosciutto, figs, and arugula for a gourmet spin.
• Grilling tip: Pre-cook dough rounds on one side, flip, add toppings, and finish with the lid closed for melty cheese.

Pesto Grilled Cheese on the Grill

Put a grown-up spin on a childhood favorite by grilling cheese sandwiches over open flames. This version pairs provolone with fresh mint pesto for a burst of herbal flavor and melty, cheesy goodness. It’s a vegetarian standout that will even please meat lovers.

• Core ingredients: Crusty bread, provolone or your favorite cheese, homemade or store-bought mint basil pesto.
• Tip: For crispier sandwiches, brush the outsides of the bread with olive oil before grilling.
• Variation: Substitute vegan cheese or gluten-free bread as needed.

Grilled Rack of Lamb

A show-stopper for any summertime feast, grilled rack of lamb is easier than its gourmet reputation suggests. Marinated in aromatic herbs and garlic, the lamb develops a flavorful crust on the grill while remaining juicy inside.

• Herb marinade: Garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, black pepper.
• Why it’s great: The grill imparts smokiness that balances lamb’s rich flavor.
• Serving suggestion: Serve with a tangy chimichurri or herby yogurt sauce and a crisp salad.

Other Unusual Grilled Sides & Dishes

• Grilled Caesar Salad: Charred romaine hearts served with creamy dressing and shaved parmesan bring new texture and smoke to this classic salad.
• Savory Soup & Salad Combo: Try pairing a bowl of grilled tomato soup with smoky romaine salad for a satisfying appetizer.
• Queso Fundido: Melt a skillet of bubbly cheese with chorizo directly on the grill—serve with tortillas for scooping.
• Cilantro Grilled Corn: Another twist on elote, slather sweet corn with cilantro-lime butter and a sprinkle of chili powder.
• Garlic Bread Pizza: Transform garlic bread with pizza toppings, grilling until bubbly and crispy.

Side-by-Side: Grilled Fruits vs. Grilled Vegetables

Pro Tips for Unconventional Grilling

• Heat control is key: Keep one side of the grill for high-heat searing and the other as a cooler zone for slower cooking or warming.
• Marinate for bold flavor: Even brief marinades (20–30 minutes) can boost the flavor of vegetables, fruit, and protein.
• Don’t neglect basting: Brushing with flavorful sauces during grilling develops deeper color and taste.
• Try grilling bread: Lightly oil and grill hunks of rustic bread—perfect as a base for salads, spreads, or as a standalone snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I grill more than just meat and vegetables?

A: Absolutely! Fruits like watermelon, peaches, and plums are fantastic on the grill. You can also try pizza, sandwiches, even cheese dishes for extra variety.

Q: What’s a good vegetarian option for the grill?

A: Grilled cheese sandwiches with mint pesto, grilled Caesar salad, and veggie skewers with tofu or halloumi are delicious non-meat options.

Q: How do I keep skewers from burning?

A: If using bamboo or wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20–30 minutes before threading ingredients to help prevent burning while grilling.

Q: What’s the secret to juicy grilled chicken or steak?

A: Marinate proteins beforehand, use a meat thermometer for the perfect cook, and let meat rest after grilling so juices redistribute before slicing.

Q: Why should I grill fruit?

A: Grilling fruit caramelizes natural sugars, intensifies flavor, and adds a smoky contrast that pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes.

Bring Creativity to Every Backyard Bash

Say goodbye to grilling monotony and experiment with unexpected recipes that surprise and delight. Whether you opt for sticky skewers, charred fruit, or a grilled salad, taking risks on the grill pays off with fresh flavors and memorable meals. Next time you light the coals, let your inspiration lead the way—your friends and family will thank you.

Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb