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7 Summer Grilling Ideas That Aren’t Burgers

July 09, 2026 3 min read

Burgers are easy.
But summer is too long to grill the same thing every weekend.
Here are seven simple ideas for weeknight dinners, cookouts, and slow weekends by the grill.
Idea 1

Steak Kebabs

Steak night, now on a stick.

Use evenly sized sirloin cubes with peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini. Leave a little space between each piece so everything cooks evenly.

Cooking tip

Cut the steak into evenly sized pieces so they finish at the same time.

Grill over medium-high heat, turning every few minutes, until browned outside and cooked to your liking.

Try them with: Chimichurri, garlic butter, or BBQ glaze.


Idea 2 

Spatchcock Chicken

Spatchcocking helps a whole chicken cook faster and more evenly.

Cook it over indirect heat with the skin facing up. Finish over direct heat when the skin needs more color.

Temperature tip

Cook the thickest part of the breast to 165°F.

Try it with: Lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or honey mustard.


Idea 3 

Cedar-Plank Salmon

Cedar-plank salmon brings light smoke without putting the fish directly over the flames.

Soak the plank first, place the salmon on top, then close the grill.

Temperature tip

The USDA safe minimum for fish is 145°F, but your preferred final temperature may depend on the texture you like.

Pull thick fillets slightly before your target and let carryover cooking finish the job.

Try it with: Maple glaze, garlic herbs, or brown sugar mustard.


Idea 4

Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is quick, lean, and great for a weeknight grill session.

Sear it over direct heat, then move it to the cooler side of the grill to finish.

Temperature tip

Aim for a final temperature of 145°F, followed by at least a three-minute rest.

Pull it a few degrees early so it does not overcook while resting.

Try it with: Honey garlic, coffee rub, or peach glaze.


Idea 5 

Garlic Herb Lamb Chops

Lamb chops cook quickly and need very little seasoning.

Garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper will do the job.

Temperature tip

For medium-rare, aim for about 135°F.

For medium, aim for about 145°F.

Pull them just before your target and let them rest before serving.

Try them with: Mint yogurt, lemon herbs, or garlic butter.


Idea 6 

Smoked Tri-Tip

Tri-tip gives you plenty of beefy flavor without the time commitment of brisket.

Smoke it slowly, then finish it over high heat for a browned crust.

Temperature tip

For medium-rare, aim for a final temperature around 135°F.

For medium, aim for about 145°F.

Tri-tip can rise several degrees while resting, so start watching the temperature early.

Slice against the grain. The grain changes direction across the roast, so divide it first if needed.

Try it with: Santa Maria seasoning, chimichurri, or horseradish sauce.


Idea 7 

Grilled Peaches

Dessert belongs on the grill too.

Cut ripe peaches in half, remove the pits, and grill them cut-side down until lightly charred.

Brush them with a little oil before grilling. Add honey after they come off the heat so it does not burn.

Serve with: Vanilla ice cream, mascarpone, or cinnamon granola.


Need More Temperature Guidance?

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Cooking time changes with the cut, thickness, grill temperature, and weather.

Internal temperature tells you what is actually happening inside.

See the Meat Temperature Guide 

Cook With Less Guesswork

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Track the temperature without repeatedly opening the grill.

Insert your MeatStick in the thickest part of the meat, keep it away from bones, and follow the cook from your phone.

Shop The MeatStick Collection

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