“Beat the heat” may be a cliché, but sometimes it fits. It hit 105 degrees at our house yesterday—even here near Seattle. Much of the country is sweltering right now, so whether you’re sheltering indoors or firing up the grill, you’re probably looking for easy ways to stay cool and still enjoy great summer food.
Summer BBQ Menu – Volume 1
Welcome to the first installment of our Summer BBQ Menu series. This edition brings together a balanced lineup of mains and sides that are perfect for a backyard cookout, a picnic, or a relaxed family dinner. These recipes are approachable, full of fresh summer flavors, and great for sharing.
Summer BBQ Menu – Volume 1
Traeger Spot Prawn Rolls
Tender and sweet, spot prawns make a luxurious yet simple sandwich filling. Served in a classic lobster-roll style, these Traeger Spot Prawn Rolls are lightly seasoned to highlight the prawns’ natural flavor. They’re an elegant, breezy main that’s perfect for warm evenings when you want something seafood-forward but uncomplicated.
Serving tip: Keep the filling chilled until just before serving, and offer a crisp green salad or chilled cucumber ribbon salad on the side to complement the prawns without adding heat to the kitchen.
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Tri Tip Brisket-Style
When you crave the deep flavor of brisket but don’t have the extra time, tri-tip is a versatile and satisfying alternative. This brisket-style tri-tip recipe delivers the smoky, richly seasoned profile you want without an all-day commitment. It’s a hearty centerpiece that pairs well with classic barbecue sides and plenty of cold drinks.
Serving tip: Slice against the grain for tender servings, and provide pickles or a vinegar-based slaw to brighten each bite.
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Blackstone Mexican Street Corn Off the Cob
This off-the-cob griddle elote captures the smoky, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn in an easy-to-serve form. Using frozen or fresh kernels, the corn is charred and tossed with creamy, spicy, and citrusy components for a bright, flavorful side that plays well with grilled proteins.
Serving tip: Serve warm with lime wedges and a sprinkle of cotija or a smoky paprika for color and contrast.
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Blackstone Salmon Sandwich
Fresh salmon filets cooked on a griddle make for a tender, flavorful sandwich filling that’s lighter than many traditional barbecue mains. This Blackstone salmon sandwich is ideal for summer because fish cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with crisp, acidic toppings like pickled onions or a lemon-herb slaw.
Serving tip: Offer toasted buns and a simple dill-yogurt sauce on the side so guests can build their own sandwiches.
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Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing dilly tuna pasta salad is a summer staple: easy to prepare, served cold, and wonderfully portable for picnics. This salad balances tender pasta, flaked tuna, and bright herbs in a creamy dressing that won’t weigh you down on a hot day.
Serving tip: Make it a few hours ahead so flavors meld, and keep it chilled until serving to preserve texture and freshness.
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Menu notes: these recipes are designed to be mixed and matched. Pair lighter seafood sandwiches with crisp, cooling sides like pasta or vegetable salads, and reserve the heartier tri-tip for guests who prefer a traditional barbecue experience. Keep plenty of chilled beverages, fresh citrus, and simple salads on hand to keep the meal refreshing and seasonally appropriate.
Final tip: when temperatures climb, focus on quick-cooking proteins, chilled sides, and make-ahead salads to avoid long stints at the grill. With a few bright, flavorful dishes, you can enjoy the taste of summer without overheating. Happy grilling!