The backyard barbeque is not just for burgers and hotdogs anymore! I think of my two grills, turkey fryer, outdoor fireplace and patio as an extension of my kitchen. The truth be told, my patio is my outdoor kitchen, my dining room and one of my favorite places to entertain, especially when we have more than twenty friends over. So before you read any further, think about where your grill is positioned in your yard or on your deck. If you have limited kitchen or entertaining space, think of where you can take your grill—a local park, your church grounds, or the communal area in your apartment complex. Relocating can let you host a much bigger gathering!
Yes, you can still grill classics like burgers and dogs; I think outside is the best way to cook them. However, if you are sticking with these grilling heroes, elevate them to a higher culinary level. Try grilling the topping. Season thick slices of tomatoes with your favorite seasoned salt and a bit of Parmesan cheese (look for my blend at www.curtisaikens.com), then grill them for two, no more than three, minutes. Go ahead and put the pickles and onion on the grill just long enough to obtain grill marks, on both sides, of course. Now this is the biggie—wrap the cheese for your burger in lettuce. Wet it with pickle, lemon or orange juice, and place it on the grill just long enough for the lettuce to wilt. Boy, will you love it!
If you're entertaining, please don't forget the non-meat eaters or people who are just trying to eat less beef and pork. There are great meat-free options available at your local supermarket. These burgers and chick'n patties can be prepared just like traditional patties, and be sure to jazz them up the way I suggested.
But really, think of your grill as your outdoor kitchen. Anything I can do inside, I can do outside. If you don't believe me, the next time you are in your local bookstore, take a stroll through the grilling section. You will find books on preparing everything from first courses to desserts on your backyard (as we say in the South) barbeque.
Keep cooking inside and out!
Phillip E. Banks (05/25/2010 15:55:55 PM)
Curtis!! It is so good to see you at this site! I originally started following you on the Food Channel's early days, then lost track. You have been an inspiration for me and I'd love to see more of your meatless recipes!!
wes (02/09/2009 04:01:37 AM)
enjoyed curtis' tips. i'll try them and pass them on.
Jarole (08/14/2008 13:52:22 PM)
If you have veggie dogs or small foods that will fall through the grates of the grill and you love the smoked flavor, buy the disposable foil trays for them. Also bring back the BETTER N BURGER'S. That was my Favorite of all MSF Products.
bc (07/09/2008 20:38:38 PM)
Sally, Here are some more ideas for your new grill: I cut up baby new potatoes into bite size pieces and drizzle a bit of olive oil and seasoning and wrap it in foil and throw it on the grill. Many other veggies prepared the same way are also tasty. Veggies are great on the grill! Another one of my favorites is making fajitas on the grill. I usually prepare some of the Morning Star Meal Starters "veggie chicken" strips with fajitas or taco seasoning ahead of time. Then I lay foil flat on the grill and cook up some onions and peppers on top of the foil. When they are almost done I add in the fajitas "veggie chicken" and mix it in. Then to finish it up I toss some tortillas on the grill to warm them up. Don't forget all of your favorite Mexican toppings and sides! A complete meal!
sally (06/29/2008 21:09:08 PM)
this is great! i just bought a new grill and was wondering if i am giving up all meat what will i grill? thanks for the ideas here!