Spice Up Your Summer BBQ

With a fruit and veggie cookoff!

Summer is here, and nothing says sunshine and good times quite like a backyard barbecue. Imagine the sizzle of the grill, the laughter of friends and family, and that delicious aroma wafting through the air. Now, add a little friendly competition to the mix and you've got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable summer tradition.

So why not make your next barbecue a cookoff? It's an excellent way to bring everyone together, showcase some culinary creativity, and maybe even discover a new favorite dish. Take it to the next level and buy a fun trophy and vote for a new winner each year for a memorable tradition.

But here's the twist—this cookoff is all about incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your BBQ menu. Don’t worry, going plant-based doesn’t mean you have to go vegan. It simply means adding more vibrant, nutritious plant foods to your plate. Remember, fruits and vegetables are where most of the flavor comes from.

5 Cookoff Ideas for a Winning Fruit and Veggie BBQ

1. Grillable Veggies:  Think beyond the usual corn on the cob. Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and portobello mushrooms are perfect for grilling. Just brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite herbs, and grill until tender.

2. Fruit Kebabs:  Fruit skewers are a fun and festive addition to any BBQ. Use sturdy fruits like pineapple, peaches, and watermelon. Grill lightly to bring out and enhance their natural sweetness. You can even drizzle them with a bit of honey or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

3. Plant-Based Burgers:  Swap out traditional beef patties for plant-based burgers. There are many delicious options available at your local grocery store, or you can make your own using black beans, chickpeas, or lentils as the base. Add your favorite toppings for a burger that's bursting with flavor.

4. Fresh Salads:  A fresh, crisp salad can be a refreshing complement to grilled dishes. Mix greens with a variety of colorful veggies, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Dress it up with a light vinaigrette or a tangy citrus dressing. Check out our Summer Cobb Salad, it’s a winner! Even lettuces can be grilled for a smoky flavor profile.

5. Healthy Sides:  Think outside the box with your side dishes. Grilled asparagus, stuffed bell peppers, and roasted plantains are excellent choices. You can also prepare a quinoa or chickpea salad for a protein-packed side.

Ready to fire up the grill? Share your favorite plant-based BBQ recipes in the comments below and inspire others to join the fun. And don’t forget to book your spot in our next cookoff—where the competition is fierce, but the benefits are deliciously rewarding!

Published August 1, 2024