The Great Guide to Summer Grilling

Grilling outdoors is one of life’s most enjoyable activities, a fantastic way to create memories with friends and family. When the sun is shining and the grill is filled with fire-kissed meats and veggies, and even fruit (!), all you need is the occasional cool breeze and a cool drink to achieve a state of pure bliss.

That’s not to say it’s easy!

When your cookout involves more than basic burgers and hot dogs — and it should (but not that there’s anything wrong with that) — you need to plan ahead. This guide to summer grilling will give you the essentials to throw a backyard party that guests will love, while allowing you to repeat the experience every time the weather allows. From finding the right grill for you to adding tools to make cooking easier, as well as providing tasty barbecue recipes, and clever tips and techniques, this guide serves as your roadmap to summer grilling glory.

Pick the right grill

Grills come in all shapes and sizes, from simple bowls with a grate for charcoal cooking to tricked-out propane gas units that can cost almost as much as a car (or a house!). The first thing to figure out is the space where you’ll be grilling. Then, consider your budget and what kind of summer parties you want to throw.

Here is a quick primer on the different types of grills to help choose what’s right for you.

Charcoal: Many grilling enthusiasts swear by charcoal grills, and for good reason: The smoky flavor and char from cooking over coal can’t be beat. The grills are also available in many shapes and sizes, from small rectangular hibachi-style models that are perfect for apartment balconies and tailgate parties to medium or large kettles with grates suitable for a family of four to sizable gatherings. Other advantages include being able to cook with different types of charcoal and even wood, creating hotter and cooler zones depending on where you build the fire in the grill, and, of course, getting the perfect seared grill marks on your delicious ribeye steaks.

Gas: For frequent grilling, entertaining large parties, and easy cleanup, a gas unit is the perfect option. It heats up quickly, and the dials ensure consistency when cooking. Should you have ample room in your yard or on your patio, a large gas grill makes managing any menu a snap, with multiple grates and levels to heat up buns or bread, or keep corn on the cob warm while steaks or seafood cook over the more direct heat.

Other types of grills include the egg-shaped kamado, high-end wood pellet grills with dials to control heat, and rotisseries that are great for evenly cooking seafood, poultry, and more. For further guidance, consult our Ultimate Grill Guide.

What to grill and serve

Proteins: As a general rule, if you can cook it on your kitchen stove, then you can grill it just as well, if not better. Oil the cooking surface (such as grates) and grill whatever proteins you like. Try salmon, halibut, and Chilean sea bass for great-tasting fish that’s also sustainably caught. Beef, from burgers to steaks to ribs, is always a solid choice, or try a new type of protein and grill up some bison burgers and franks, or even bison sirloin steaks! Chicken kebabs allow you to make meat and vegetables at the same time, and are especially easy to cook on a grill.

MORE: 3 Steps to Grilling Great Burgers

Sides: Focusing only on proteins is tempting, but vegetables can be mind-blowing when cooked over fire, especially when you use in-season produce, such as selections from The Chef’s Garden. Vegetarians will appreciate the extra flavor and char when serving veggies as a main course.

Desserts: A summer barbecue is not a summer barbecue without a slice of pie to end the meal. Try a fruit pie for a sweet complement to the smokier, more savory fare. For a fun, interactive dessert idea, add ice cream, granola, and other toppings to a ginger apple crisp.

Sauces, Rubs & Marinades: Add depth of flavor to your proteins and sides by preparing them with a marinade, rub, or seasoning — or try a sauce to use before (or after) cooking.

Drinks: Sometimes, a cold beer (alcoholic or not) on a warm day is the best accompaniment to a summer cookout. But when you’re creating a thoughtful menu, you need to step up your beverage game. Pairing grilled meats with wine is tricky, but the payoff, when done right, is big. For adults who prefer not to drink alcohol or are cutting back, craft non-alcoholic cocktails offer an exciting alternative to soda, juice, or water.

Grilling tips and gear

Now that you’ve got your grill and your menu planned out, make sure your summer barbecue experience goes smoothly with the right tools — and with a few tricks up your sleeve.

A reliable grill set to cook with, from a sturdy metal spatula to skewers for kebabs, is essential. You can also improve your grilling game with low-cost, no-fuss items, such as a roll of aluminum foil, which is great for sealing and cooking marinated or pre-oiled vegetables, as well as for keeping proteins from sticking to the grates. And to let your guests know who’s in charge while keeping your party clothes clean, treat yourself to a durable apron.

Another important tip: Get organized! Marinate proteins in advance, and stash them in the fridge, then bring them to room temperature just before grilling. Slice and dice vegetables so you’re not doing prep work while food is already on the grill. Set up areas for your guests to make their plates, such as a separate table with a condiment station or even a burger bar.

Last but not least, prepare for your summer barbecue sessions with a quick and free refresher on how to grill everything. This guide will give you the confidence you need to entertain family and friends while enjoying the process of cooking and hosting. Remember: A relaxed host makes for happier guests!