Our Official Start to BBQ Season: 7 Recipes I’m Making This Summer

A roundup of summer grilling recipes for easy outdoor meals, plus a few fun extras.

I don’t know about you, but once the weather warms up, I’m always looking for an excuse to eat outside. So even though May 16 is officially National BBQ Day- and its a special grilling day in and of itself - I’m unofficially calling it the kickoff to BBQ season. Feels right, right?

This year, I’ve made it my little summer goal to try each of these BBQ-friendly recipes — and when I do, I’ll pop back in and share how it went in the comments. You should do the same! I’d love to know what you tried, what you changed, or even what totally flopped (hey, it happens 😅).

Whether you're hosting a weekend cookout, heading to the cottage, or just grilling on a random Tuesday, these recipes are easy, tasty, and made for warm-weather vibes.

Easy, Delicious BBQ Recipes:

Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts

Recipe by Served from Scratch
Bright and zesty with fresh herbs — a nice switch-up from regular BBQ sauce.

Grilled Corn Fritters

Recipe by Table for Two
Crispy, cheesy and perfect as a side or snack.

Grilled Potatoes in Foil

Recipe by Diethood
You really can’t go wrong with garlic, herbs, and potatoes wrapped in foil.

Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream

Recipe by House of Nash Eats
This one feels super fancy, but it’s so easy — and such a crowd pleaser.

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Recipe by A Farmgirl’s Dabbles
Fresh lime, tequila, and grilled shrimp — basically summer on a stick.

Easy Grilled Pizza

Recipe by Tastes Better from Scratch
Fun for kids or guests to top their own. We like to put out all the toppings and let everyone get creative.

A Few More BBQ Faves...

Classic Burgers & Dogs
Set up a little toppings bar — think bacon, jalapeños, different cheeses, and spicy sauces.

Fish Tacos
Grilled white fish with slaw, avocado, and lime crema. Super fresh and light.

Portobello Burgers
Great for veggie lovers! Marinate and grill like you would meat — so flavourful.

Lemonade Bar
Make it fun with a few different flavours: classic, strawberry, maybe even lavender?

Banana Boats
Split a banana, stuff with chocolate and marshmallows, wrap in foil, and grill. So easy and such a fun treat.

What to Wear to a Backyard BBQ?

If you're like me and want to be comfy but still cute while flipping burgers (or sipping wine while someone flips), check out our easy summer dresses — they're perfect for BBQs, weekend hangs, or casual nights on the patio.

Got a favourite BBQ recipe or a fun grilling tradition?
We’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment or tag us on Instagram — we’re always looking for new ideas. If you're local to Aurora, ON — pop by Lemonberry before your next BBQ for an easy summer look!

Here’s to the official-unofficial start of BBQ season! 🥂