Summertime means grilling time. From Father’s Day and Fourth of July to family reunions, picnics, and BBQs, occasions abound to gather loved ones and enjoy a meal together in the great outdoors with food fresh off the grill.

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Grilling is one of the best ways to bring out the natural flavors of meats and fresh vegetables. Dry rubs and seasonings can add even more complexity to the flavor of grilled foods—and can also help keep the food moist and juicy.

SPICE PAIRING IDEAS

Certain spices pair well with certain foods. So, to help you make your grill-ables stand out at all of your summer cookouts, use the following flavors to bring out the best in grilled meats and veggies.

RIBS

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Heat and sweet spices together enhance the natural flavors of ribs: think a bit of sugar combined with ground pepper, chili, and garlic.

TRY: Weber® Cowboy Seasoning & Rub

STEAKS

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Kosher salt and ground pepper are tried-and-true spices on steaks; other flavors that will enhance the meat include thyme, garlic and minced onion.

TRY: Four Sixes™ Original Cowboy

BURGERS

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Peppery spices like cayenne, jalapeno, chili and even ginger bring out the best in beef burgers; garlic and onion powders complement, too.

TRY: Four Sixes™ Cowboy Camp Burger Seasoning Blend

CHICKEN

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Poultry partners with a range of flavors, from paprika, turmeric, cumin and chili to oregano, thyme and tarragon. Choose spices based on what you’re craving or what your menu theme is

TRY: Four Sixes™ Bunkhouse Barbecue

VEGETABLES

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In summer, fresh vegetables are plentiful. To best enjoy their flavors when grilling, keep spices simple: ground pepper, oregano and garlic powder pair well. Want more exotic? Sprinkle on chili, ginger or cumin.

TRY: Dash™ Salt-Free Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend

TOFU or OTHER PLANT-BASED “MEATS”

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Most plant-based grill-ables lack flavor, particularly tofu. Spices like turmeric, paprika and cumin will add some zip.

TRY: Spice Islands® Curry Powder

GRATE TIP!
Remember to always oil your grill grates before placing food on them and after each use for best cooking results. Peanut, vegetable, sunflower and avocado oil are the best options for high-heat grilling as they each have a high smoke point (400 F or higher).

Rebecca Heaton is the former editor of Live Naturally magazine.