17 Summertime Backyard BBQ Recipes You'll Crave All Year

As the sun shines and the grills come out, nothing beats the joy of a backyard BBQ. This collection of 17 recipes offers a variety of dishes that are perfect for outdoor cooking and dining. From refreshing drinks to savory mains and sides, these recipes are sure to become favorites for any summer gathering.

Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant Tomato Stacks bring together the rich flavors of roasted eggplant and fresh tomatoes, complemented by a tangy balsamic glaze. This dish, ready in about 30 minutes, features layers of vegetables seasoned with herbs and garlic. The combination creates a savory taste with a hint of sweetness. It’s a visually appealing and nutritious addition to any BBQ spread.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan. — Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a one-pan wonder that saves on clean-up and doesn’t skimp on flavor. In roughly 45 minutes, you’ll have succulent chicken seasoned with smoky paprika alongside a medley of roasted vegetables. This hearty dish provides a perfect balance of protein and fiber. Its warm, aromatic spices are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Cucumber Celery Mint Gin Rickey

A refreshing mojito with a sprig of mint, served on a dark table next to a menu. — Cucumber Celery Mint Gin Rickey. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The Cucumber Celery Mint Gin Rickey is a refreshing cocktail that takes about 10 minutes to mix. It combines the crisp taste of cucumber and celery with the coolness of mint, creating a sophisticated, garden-fresh flavor. Gin adds a smooth botanical element to this drink, making it a refined choice for a summer BBQ. This Rickey offers a zesty twist to the classic gin cocktail.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Celery Mint Gin Rickey

Colombian baked plantains recipe with guava and cheese

Baked plantains with cheese and guava wth tablecloth. — Colombian baked plantains recipe with guava and cheese. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian baked plantains with guava and cheese is a sweet and savory treat that takes about 25 minutes to prepare. The ripe plantains caramelize in the oven, pairing perfectly with the melting guava and cheese. This unique combination delivers a tropical taste with a cheesy richness. It’s a delightful fusion dish that will transport your taste buds to Colombia.
Get the Recipe: Colombian baked plantains recipe with guava and cheese

Spicy Tofu Tacos

Side view of tacos on a plate, one with bite taken out. — Spicy Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Spicy Tofu Tacos are a plant-based delight, ready in about 20 minutes, that pack a punch with bold flavors. The tofu is marinated in a spicy sauce, then grilled to perfection, providing a satisfying texture and heat. Topped with fresh vegetables and wrapped in a soft tortilla, these tacos offer a zesty and filling meal. They’re a fantastic meat-free option that will excite even the most dedicated carnivores.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos

Orange Grapefruit Punch Mocktail

A close-up image of a glass of orange juice with a slice of orange on the rim and a grapefruit wedge on top, against a white background. — Orange Grapefruit Punch Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Orange Grapefruit Punch Mocktail, ready in just 5 minutes, offers a citrusy blend that’s both invigorating and thirst-quenching. Main ingredients like fresh orange and grapefruit juice are mixed with a touch of sweetness, resulting in a vibrant taste. This non-alcoholic beverage is perfect for guests of all ages. Its effervescence makes it a festive choice for any summer BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Orange Grapefruit Punch Mocktail

Berry Salad with Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, and Pomegranate Arils

Blackberry and pomegranate salad. — Berry Salad with Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, and Pomegranate Arils. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Berry Salad with Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, and Pomegranate Arils is a colorful dish that’s ready in about 15 minutes. It combines the sweetness of berries with the peppery bite of arugula and the crunch of nuts. The pomegranate arils add a juicy pop of flavor. This salad is a light yet flavorful option that will complement any BBQ menu.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, and Pomegranate Arils

Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

39 Quick Recipes for grilled zucchini rolls on a blue plate. — Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad is a delicate appetizer that takes roughly 20 minutes to prepare. Thinly sliced zucchini encases a creamy crab salad, offering a blend of textures and fresh flavors. This dish is both low-carb and elegant, making it an ideal starter for a sophisticated BBQ. The taste is fresh, with a hint of the sea.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa

Two black bean tacos on wooden board. — Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa are a vibrant and healthy option, ready in about 30 minutes. They feature hearty black beans and a homemade sweet pepper salsa that adds a fresh and slightly tangy flavor. Encased in warm tortillas, these tacos are both satisfying and full of nutrients. They’re a colorful addition to any BBQ, sure to please vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa

Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

Seafood Salad. — Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango, prepared in about 35 minutes, is a light and fruity seafood dish. It combines the delicate flavors of pear and mango with the slight aniseed taste of fennel. The citrus marinade cooks the seafood, resulting in a tender and zesty ceviche. This dish is a refreshing palate cleanser or starter for a summer BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks on a plate. — Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks take about an hour to make and are infused with a blend of Latin American spices. The drumsticks are marinated in a savory mix, then baked to juicy perfection. They offer a slightly spicy and deeply flavorful experience. These drumsticks will be a hit with guests looking for a taste of South America.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Basil Peach Cobbler

A plated dessert featuring a slice of peach pie topped with whipped cream and fresh basil leaves, served with a spoon. — Basil Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Basil Peach Cobbler is a summery dessert that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. Ripe peaches and fragrant basil are the stars of this sweet treat. The cobbler has a soft, biscuit-like topping that complements the juicy fruit filling. It’s a comforting end to any BBQ meal, with a lovely hint of herbs.
Get the Recipe: Basil Peach Cobbler

Spicy Pineapple Margarita Mocktail (with Jalapeño)

Two drinks with a pineapple garnish and jalapeno. — Spicy Pineapple Margarita Mocktail. Photo credit: Spirited Sip

The spicy pineapple margarita mocktail, ready in just 10 minutes, is a non-alcoholic beverage with a kick. Pineapple juice and fresh jalapeño slices combine for a sweet and spicy flavor profile. It’s a tropical drink that offers a bold twist on the traditional margarita. This mocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their sweet.
Get the Recipe: spicy pineapple margarita mocktail (with jalapeño)

Aji Picante

Side view of hand lifting a spoon of aji. — Aji Picante. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Aji Picante, a Colombian hot sauce, is a quick and easy condiment that takes about 10 minutes to whip up. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and hot peppers. The result is a vibrant and fiery sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. It’s an essential topping for a truly authentic BBQ experience.
Get the Recipe: Aji Picante

grilled chicken kofta kebab

Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish ready in about 30 minutes. Ground chicken is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, then formed around skewers and grilled. These kebabs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a high-protein BBQ option. The taste is a savory delight with a hint of exotic spice.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab

Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Overhead view of sockeye salmon in cast iron pan. — Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that takes about 20 minutes to cook. The salmon is seasoned lightly and pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. This method highlights the fish’s natural flavors. It’s a healthy and delicious choice for an upscale BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs. — Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta is a refreshing side dish that’s ready in about 15 minutes. It combines creamy white beans with tangy feta cheese and a variety of fresh vegetables. The salad is dressed in a light vinaigrette, offering a satisfying taste with Mediterranean flair. This salad is both filling and refreshing, perfect for a hot day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

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17 Summertime Backyard BBQ Recipes You’ll Crave All Year