As the sunny days of summer roll in, it’s time to fire up your outdoor kitchen and indulge in some BBQ. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, there’s nothing quite like summertime recipes’ smoky flavors and fresh ingredients. Our team at Synergy Outdoor Living is here to share a few standout recipes that will elevate your outdoor cooking game and make the most of your Florida kitchen.
What’s on the menu?
- Smoky BBQ Ribs
- Garden Fresh Grilled Veggie Platter
- Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Sorbet
Prepare to impress your guests and turn your outdoor kitchen into the ultimate summer hotspot!
Smoky BBQ Ribs
Fire up your outdoor kitchen for these delicious Smoky BBQ Ribs!
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Rub olive oil on both sides of the ribs, then evenly apply the spice mix.
- Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and place them on the grill.
- Close the grill lid and cook for 2 hours until the meat is tender. Monitor the grill temperature to ensure it remains steady.
- In a separate bowl, combine barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar.
- Remove the ribs from the foil and brush them generously with the barbecue sauce mixture.
- Place the ribs directly on the grill grate, bone side down, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Allow the ribs to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Garden Fresh Grilled Veggie Platter
This dish brings together the best of summer vegetables, capturing their flavors through grilling. Think colorful bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and red onions, all lightly seasoned and charred to perfection. YUM!
Ingredients:
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, red onion, and asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the vegetables directly on the grill grates or in a grill basket.
- Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately, either as a delightful side dish or as a main course for vegetarians and vegans.
Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Sorbet
This tropical treat combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple with the cool, creamy texture of coconut sorbet, creating a delightful end to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cored
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 pint coconut sorbet
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple into thick rings or wedges.
- In a small bowl, combine honey and lime juice. Brush this mixture onto the pineapple slices.
- Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is caramelized.
- Remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Serve the grilled pineapple with a scoop of coconut sorbet. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Enjoy this refreshing finish to your grilled feast!
More Tips > How to Plan the Perfect Summer BBQ
Make the Most of Summer
With these delightful summer recipes, your outdoor kitchen in Florida will be the hotspot for family gatherings and memorable BBQs. Whether you’re smoking ribs or grilling fresh vegetables, there’s nothing quite like the joy of outdoor cooking.
Ready to elevate your outdoor cooking experience? Contact Synergy Outdoor Living today to help design the perfect outdoor oasis in Tampa, Orlando, or Jacksonville.