Nothing beats the smoky flavor of a grill. Whether it’s a juicy chicken breast or a handmade burger, a BBQ does what no other can to our meals. However, while some dishes are perfected on the grill, some foods shouldn’t go near one.
1. Pork Chops
Pork is a classic dish, but the rib or shoulder are better options for your grill. Chops don’t have as much fat, which means they don’t grill as nicely and tend to dry out instead.
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2. Flaky Fish
Flaky, delicate friends of the sea aren’t the best option for your grill. Sole or tilapia are often more trouble than they’re worth as they usually just break apart on the grill.
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3. Leafy Greens
Some vegetables thrive over a flame grill, but others don’t fare as well. Though you can technically place them on a grill, leafy greens tend to char and disintegrate through the grates, making the process more arduous.
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4. Bacon
Bacon is best left to the pan! Given the high fat content, it’s a huge fire hazard that can quickly lead to flare-ups on the grill. Not to mention, making it on the BBQ can cause your strips to curl and burn away the distinct flavor.
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5. Peeled Shrimp
Peeled hrimp seems like a safe go-to on the surface, but it's one of the tougher dishes to make on the grill. It’s a fine line between undercooking them to the point of mush or overcooking them to the point of being rubber.
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6. Tofu
Tofu can be a little bland, so it makes sense to turn to your BBQ. However, tofu suffers from the same fate as delicate fish in that it easily flakes on the grill and shouldn’t be made there.
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7. Scallops
We now know that shrimp isn’t safe, but neither are scallops. Scallops stick to the grill and due to the intense heat, will most likely fall apart between the grates. And, just like shrimp, they can also become rubbery when overcooked.
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8. Burgers With High Fat
Don’t turn away from all burgers! But maybe reconsider ones with high fat content as too much fat can lead to flare-ups and the potential for an uneven cook. For burgers, you usually want anywhere between 15-20% fat.
9. Thin Steaks
Steaks are a mouthwatering crowd-pleaser, but thin ones require more care on the grill. It’s more of a challenge to properly cook any thin cut because the intense heat can char and dry them out.
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10. Cabbage Rolls
It’s not impossible to grill cabbage rolls, it’s just that they often aren't worth it. Cabbage can easily flake through the grates, your filling may cook unevenly, and cabbage leaves can also blacken.
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On the flip side, here are some classic dishes that belong on the grill!
1. Burgers
Find yourself a good burger (with the right amount of fat) and you’ve got the perfect BBQ dish. When done right, a grilled patty is lightly charred on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor.
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2. Hot Dogs
Say what you want about hot dogs, but they’re a tradition in the summertime. Sure, you can steam or boil them—or be one of those people who just rips into them raw—but grilled hot dogs are a must every season.
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3. Kebabs
If you’re torn on what you want for dinner, kebabs are a great way to hit multiple food groups. Meat, vegetables, and even fruit are left juicy and kissed with that smoky flavor we all crave.
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4. Salmon
Delicate fish is a bad idea on the grill, but fatty fish like salmon or tuna is a-okay! Not only does salmon retain its flavor over a BBQ, but it also flakes in the way we want.
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5. Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Quit boiling it and take your corn to the BBQ for a delicious smoky flavor alongside its classic taste.
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6. Asparagus
If you’re itching for veggies, turn to something more durable like asparagus. It heats quickly, but won’t burn, and you’re left with vibrant greens and the telltale taste of the grill.
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7. Chicken Wings
Chicken wings might seem like they belong in the oven, but nothing beats them on the grill. You keep the meat juicy and full of flavor while achieving a crispy exterior better than the overpriced stuff at the bar.
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8. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are one of those fun dishes packed with whatever you want. They’re versatile, delicious, and pair nicely with your grill. Best of all, they don’t take long to make either.
9. Fruit
The idea might seem a little out there, but don’t knock it until you try it! Fruit like pineapple or peaches caramelize beautifully on the grill. You won’t lose any of the sweetness either—in fact, grilling certain fruits can actually bring out the sweetness even more.
10. Ribs
Just because pork chops tend to dry out doesn’t mean all pork is off the table. And do you know what pork goes perfectly with the BBQ? Ribs! Grab a nice rack of baby-back and season (or sauce) them to really get the tastebuds dancing.
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