Sure-Fire Grilling Hacks to Keep You Cooking Outside All Summer Long

There’s nothing better than the smell of the grill charring your favorite food items to perfection. But, if you’re a newbie to the barbecue game, the thought of doing it yourself can seem a bit scary. Never fear! We’re here with a few grilling hacks to keep you cooking with confidence all season long. Gather your best gadgets and spruce up your outdoor kitchen, because you’re going to be a pro in no time.

Double skewers give added security

The more tender your ingredient is, the more likely it is to fall off the skewer you have it on. Don’t be afraid to double up to guarantee that you don’t loose anything in the depths of your grill. (Tip + Recipe via Martha Stewart)

Aluminum foil is your BFF

Whatever you do, don’t fire up your grill without making sure you have foil on hand. With it, you can make packets for your veggies and even use it to clean your grill when dinner is over. (Tip + Recipe via My Modern Cookery)

Don’t forget about salad

You can (and should) definitely grill your lettuce for salads. The key is using a heartier lettuce like romaine and slicing it in half for those perfect grill marks. Talk about making a memorable Caesar salad! (Tip + Recipe via Love Maegan)

Know which fruits grill the best

It can be tempting to throw anything on the grill once you know how versatile it is. While grilled fruit is amazing, some fruits fare better than others. Go for stone fruits, melons, and pineapple served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. (Tip + Recipe via The Framed Table)

Turn your grill into a smoker

Seriously, you won’t believe how easy it is to smoke using your grill. All you need is an aluminum pan and soaked hickory, apple, oak, or mesquite chips to have drool-worthy ribs in no time. (Tip via Craftsy)

Grilled pizza is the best pizza

Papa, who? Delivery will be no more once you discover how delicious grilled pizzas is. Start out by placing the oiled dough directly on the grates and add the toppings after you’ve flipped. (Tip + Recipe via Recipe Runner)

Don’t remove those husks

The husk will steam the corn while it grills, imparting a slightly smokey and nutty flavor. It will also keep the corn warm and serve as a handle to help you hold it. (Tip + Recipe via Platings and Pairings)

Shellfish isn’t off limits

Think outside of the usual grilled shrimp and salmon. Shellfish are great for grilling because they won’t stick to the grill; you don’t have to flip them. Once those shells open up, remove them from the grill and toss in a garlicky herb butter. (Tip + Recipe via Half Baked Harvest)

Don’t forget dessert

That’s right; even cake isn’t immune to the grill. Give store-bought angel food or pound cake a try, and your guests will be amazed by your quick and easy dessert. (Tip + Recipe via Pumpkin N Spice)