We get it, we all love a good burger. Hot dogs too. They’re safe, simple and great for a crowd. But no one is going to remember the fifteenth time you serve them at a backyard bash and, let’s be honest, you’ve got the rest of summer to fall back on those classics. This year, go bunless and fill out the menu for your Memorial Day cookout with great grilled mains that are as memorable as they are tasty.
Grilled Chicken with Charred Lemon and Heirloom Tomatoes
(Pictured above) Show off all the grill marks in a tasty spread with Scott Conant’s recipe featuring grilled chicken pieces (you can watch How to Break Down a Chicken here), veggies, lemons and slices of ciabatta bread.
Chili-Glazed Pork Ribs
Patience is a virtue when it comes to classic barbecue ribs – these pork ribs marinate in a dry rub overnight before cooking low-and-slow cook on the grill for about 3 hours – and every minute is well worth the wait for the mouthwatering combination of tender meat and a sweet-tangy glaze.
Grilled Korean-Style Skirt Steak
The steak needs some time to sit in a Korean-style marinade (with a cup of cola!), but when it’s ready, this sweet and flavorful dish cooks up in just minutes to satisfy the crowd.
Matambre with Chimichurri Sauce
You could grill flank steak the usual way, by itself, but where’s the fun in that? Step things up by slicing it open like a book, stuffing it with piquant flavor and rolling it up before it takes a turn on the grill, as in this rolled flank steak recipe inspired by Argentinian matambre.
Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken and Steak Taco Bar
Everyone will be happy to serve themselves at this taco bar with both chicken and steak in a tasty chipotle marinade and a made-for-summer charred corn salsa.
Grilled Fish on Pineapple Planks with Spicy Pineapple Salsa
Bring tropical vibes to your backyard with this impressive grilled fish recipe. The pineapple sides serve as both grilling “planks” (see: 6 Simple Ways to Grill Fish) to protect the fish from overcooking, and eye-catching plates for presentation. It’s also easier than it looks – the pineapple planks, salsa and soy marinade can be prepared ahead of time and when it’s time to grill, there’s no flipping necessary!
Related Memorial Day content:
The best way to cook a steak without a grill
This trick will make your Memorial Day cookout so much easier