Grilling is one of our favorite summer pastimes — and it’s a perfect excuse to try some surprising foods to grill that go beyond burgers and hot dogs. Sure, we love classics like kebabs and hotdogs, but summer is the ideal time to get creative with new flavors and ingredients. From fruit to veggies to unexpected mains, these eight ideas will bring fresh inspiration to your next cookout.
1. Avocados:
Everything is better with avocado, right? Believe it or not, it tastes even more amazing when grilled! Let it cool and add it to egg or chicken salad, or mix it into your guac for a smoky twist.
How to Grill: Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit (but keep the skin), brush with oil, and grill for 2–3 minutes on each side.
2. Carrots:
Carrots are a staple in many family meals — and grilling brings out their natural sweetness even more. This is one of the most underrated yet surprising foods to grill.
How to Grill: Grill carrots in a pan with olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for 10–12 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed.
3. Peaches:
Peaches are already delicious, but grilling them caramelizes the sugars and deepens the flavor. They work well in desserts, cocktails, or on their own.
How to Grill: Cut in half and place on the grill for 8–10 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
4. Pizza:
Skip the oven and head to the grill for pizza night. Grilled pizza creates a crisp, smoky crust that’s reminiscent of a wood-fired oven.
How to Grill: Use store-bought or homemade dough. Brush with oil, grill one side, flip, and add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Cook until the cheese is melted.
5. Watermelon:
Yes, grilled watermelon is a thing — and it’s a game-changer. Pair with feta in a salad or drizzle with lime juice for dessert.
How to Grill: Cut into wedges and grill for 4–6 minutes, flipping once. Add salt for savory dishes or lime for something sweet.
6. Lettuce:
Grilled romaine takes Caesar salad to the next level. It adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy dressing and croutons.
How to Grill: Cut romaine hearts in half, brush with oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill each side for 2–3 minutes.
7. Pineapple:
Sweet, juicy, and caramelized — grilled pineapple works with savory or sweet dishes. It’s also one of the easiest fruits to grill.
How to Grill: Place slices directly on the grill for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally.
8. Quesadillas:
Quesadillas get a crispy, golden finish on the grill that’s tough to beat. They’re also a great way to feed a crowd quickly.
How to Grill: Assemble your quesadilla, then grill both sides until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Make the Most of Every Cookout with Shopkick
Whether you’re grilling surprising foods or sticking to the classics, don’t forget to earn rewards while you shop for ingredients. With the Shopkick app, you can earn kicks (aka points) by walking into stores, scanning products, and uploading your receipts — or even by shopping online.
Download the free Shopkick app today and turn your summer grocery runs into gift cards. Then, head to our Facebook page and tell us: which of these surprising foods to grill are you trying first?
