It's grilling season again, which is my favorite time of year - here is a refresher of my Top 9 Grilling Tips! I always love cooking, but there is nothing like being by the grill once the nice weather hits. Everything goes on the grill at our house, beef, chicken, pork, fish, shrimp, vegetables, fruit, pizza... I am willing to try just about anything!
I might not be a grilling "expert", but I've spent countless hours with my grill - no one else is allowed near it! Here are some tips guaranteed to get you through the grilling season!
- Use the right tools - My favorites are a good grill brush for cleaning, long handled tongs, a long handled spatula and maybe a basting brush... no need for anything fancy. I suggest a nice cold beverage too! Is that a tool... ?
- Preheat the grill - Light the grill 15-20 minutes before you plan on starting to cook. A super hot grill is the only kind of grill you want to cook on.
- Keep it clean - Once the grill is preheated, use a grill brush and make sure the grates are clean. This will help prevent sticking and your grill marks will look more professional!
- Add flavor - Season your meats and veggies! There are so many options, some that need to be done in advance and some you can do on the spot - spices, rubs, brines, sauces, glazes and more!
- Space your food out - Don’t overcrowd the grill; be sure there is space so that the meat cooks evenly.
- Leave it alone - Close the cover and do not repeatedly flip your food. Give it time sear and lock in the juices. Flip it once you can see good grill marks (it is okay to quickly lift a corner to check for marks). Flipping meats and veggies early or repeatedly can cause sticking.
- Remember food safety - Once your feast is done grilling, be sure to use clean plates, platters, cutting boards and utensils to prevent cross contamination from the raw meat. This is VERY important.
- Let your meat rest - Even though it is tempting to cut into your meat as soon as it comes off the grill, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, even longer for larger cuts of meat like a roast. Just cover your platter loosely with foil to seal in the heat. This will help the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- ENJOY - Now that you grilled a great meal, sit back and enjoy it with family and friends!
What is your favorite food to grill? Do you have any grilling tips that you'd like to share?
