Undoubtedly, grilling enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover that Mexican recipes can add a thrilling twist to their outdoor cooking repertoire. These vibrant dishes bring a burst of flavor and excitement to the traditional burgers and hot dogs often associated with backyard barbecues. When warmer weather arrives, they’re sure to elevate your grilling skills to the next level. If you’re looking for a break from the usual BBQ staples, these innovative recipes are definitely worth exploring.
From spicy chorizo hot dogs smothered in zesty chimichurri sauce to beloved classics like Mexican street corn and tender street tacos, this collection of recipes promises to be an absolute showstopper. So go ahead and fire up that grill – it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce these delectable Mexican recipes to your next big summer BBQ gathering.
Grilled Mexican Corn
When it comes to indulging in a delicious and satisfying snack, grilled Mexican corn stands out as a true showstopper. Its unique flavor profile is a masterful blend of spicy, smoky, cheesy, acidic notes that combine to create an irresistible taste experience. It’s no wonder that this treat is so hard to resist, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one ear of corn.
With its roots in Mexican street food culture, grilled Mexican corn has become a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike for good reason. The grill adds a beautiful layer of char marks, elevating an ordinary ear of corn to new heights and transforming it into a culinary masterpiece.
Grilled Steak Fajitas
Foodies rejoice! Making sizzling steak fajitas on the grill is a game-changer for those looking to break free from the monotony of burgers and hot dogs. One of the most popular cuts of beef used in this dish is flank steak, renowned for its incredibly rich flavor profile. Since it’s a slightly tougher cut of meat, it’s essential to marinate it thoroughly in bold Mexican seasonings before slicing it extremely thinly.
Once you’ve taken care of the steak, simply toss in your favorite fajita vegetables, such as onions and bell peppers, and get ready to kick off an unforgettable culinary experience.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Beyond the traditional perception of grilled foods as heavy and rich, these shrimp tacos prove that with the right balance of flavors and ingredients, they can be incredibly light and refreshing. Blending sweet, tender pieces of shrimp marinated in Mexican spices with a vibrant and creamy avocado salsa, each bite is a masterclass in contrasting textures and tastes.
Bringing together the freshness of lime juice, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the subtle crunch of the taco shell, this recipe showcases that even grilled foods can be perfect for warm weather.
Chorizo Burger
Varying your meat game can be as simple as swapping out ground beef for chorizo sausage in a burger. What sets chorizo apart is its bold flavor profile, which is enhanced by its spicy kick. To counteract the heat from these chorizo burgers, it’s best to pair them with cool and refreshing toppings such as avocado, lettuce, or pickles. These calming elements help balance out the fiery taste of the sausage.
Taking your burgers to the next level can be achieved by adding a rich and aromatic condiment like cilantro mayo to the mix.
Grilled Chili Cilantro Lime Chicken
Flavorful grilled chicken breasts don’t have to be dull and uninspiring! The combination of chili, lime, and cilantro adds an explosive flavor profile to each bite, making every meal a delight. A rich marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with depth and complexity, allowing for a quick grilling process that’s effortless to execute.
These spicy, herbal, and tangy chicken breasts can be enjoyed on their own or repurposed as a filling in burritos, tacos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes.
Grilled Mexican Rib Eye Steaks
Steak lovers know that there’s nothing quite like a perfectly grilled rib eye, and for good reason – the combination of tender beef and smoky grill flavors is a match made in heaven. While it’s true that rib eye is one of the more forgiving cuts of beef when it comes to cooking, taking those flavors over the top can elevate this dish from great to extraordinary.
A simple Mexican-inspired marinade made with chili powder, cumin, lime juice, and plenty of garlic does just that, infusing each bite with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the versatility of these marinated steaks – they’re just as delicious served on their own with a fresh garden salad or roasted potatoes, as they are stuffed into tacos for a fun twist.
With this marinade, the possibilities are endless and the flavors will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico.
Grilled Chicken Street Tacos
Keeping in mind that many people crave Mexican food but are mindful of their calorie intake, this recipe offers a lighter take on traditional street tacos.
Grilled Chorizo with Chimichurri and Salsa Criolla
Varying your summer grilling routine is easier than you think. Instead of reaching for the classic hot dog, why not try a grilled chorizo and chimichurri criolla? This twist on the traditional hot dog replaces the mystery meat with spicy chorizo sausage, adding an instant flavor boost to your meal. To balance out the heat, top them with a fragrant and herby chimichurri sauce, followed by a fresh salsa criolla for added depth of flavor.
The result is a delightful harmony of spicy, herbal, and fresh flavors that will leave you wanting more. But be warned: once you experience these incredible dogs, it may be hard to go back to your old favorite hot dog recipe again.
Chipotle Adobo Skirt Steak
Craving a mouth-watering steak that’s both tender and packed with flavor? Look no further than these chipotle adobo skirt steaks! Often considered a tougher cut of meat, skirt steak can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece when treated with the right techniques. The combination of spicy chipotle peppers in adobo sauce creates a marinade that not only tenderizes the steak but also infuses it with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
With its low and slow cooking method on the grill, this dish is perfect for those who appreciate a good wait – trust us, the payoff is well worth it. The end result is a juicy, flavorful steak that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Mexican Roadside Chicken
Generally, when hosting a summer BBQ for a large group, this Mexican roadside chicken is an absolute must-try. It combines a 3-pound whole chicken with a blend of aromatic Mexican spices that include cloves, cinnamon, garlic, and a hint of orange juice. To achieve the perfect smoky flavor and tender texture, it’s essential to grill the chicken low and slow over charcoal for an extended period, allowing the natural flavors to meld together in harmony.
Grilled Tamales
Understanding that making tamale stuffing from scratch can be a daunting task, this recipe for grilled tamales takes a convenient approach by omitting the need for homemade filling altogether.
Grilled Chicken Fajitas
Delicious grilled chicken fajitas are a staple for any outdoor gathering, offering an unbeatable combination of taste and nutrition. By incorporating marinated chicken and fresh vegetables into your grilling routine, you can create a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The secret to achieving tender and mouth-watering chicken lies in the marinating process – allowing it to sit for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) ensures maximum absorption of flavors.
Serving these fajitas alongside warm tortillas or over a bed of fluffy white rice only adds to their appeal.
Grilled Fish Tacos
Nothing says summer quite like a refreshing plate of grilled fish tacos, evoking memories of warm weather and outdoor gatherings. These light and bright fish tacos are not only flakey and delicious but also pair perfectly with a rich and creamy fish taco sauce that complements their delicate flavor. To achieve this perfect balance of flavors, marinating your fish fillets in a blend of Mexican seasoning is crucial.
Plant-Based Veggie Fajitas
You don’t have to sacrifice flavor when you’re catering to a vegetarian crowd at your next summer gathering. In fact, plant-based options can be just as satisfying and delicious as their meaty counterparts. These mouth-watering fajitas are packed with the perfect blend of bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and jalapenos in a rich and savory fajita sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Serve them alongside grilled tortillas and top them off with creamy avocado slices and fresh homemade salsa for an authentic touch. The good news is that your meat-eating friends will be just as happy indulging in these flavorful veggie fajitas as they would a traditional beef dish, making this recipe a perfect solution for any summer BBQ or outdoor gathering.
Guacamole Burger
Fresh from the grill comes a burger that will make you forget all about your favorite ketchup-and-mustard combo. Even if you’re famous in your neighborhood for whipping up juicy burgers, this guacamole burger recipe is sure to take center stage. The perfectly seasoned ground beef patty is paired with a slice of pepper jack cheese and an ample helping of creamy guacamole that’s smoky, spicy, and utterly divine. It’s a flavor combination that will make your taste buds sing!
Grilled Cheese Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Not only are these grilled cheese-stuffed poblano peppers a match made in heaven, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Poblano peppers bring a depth of flavor and moderate heat level that’s perfect for those who want something more than the bland taste of regular grilled cheese, but still not as intense as jalapeno poppers. The recipe takes only three ingredients: sliced poblano pepper, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese in equal proportions. The simplicity of this dish is part of its appeal.
After grilling to perfection, you can take it to the next level by sprinkling extra red pepper flakes on top, allowing each person to control their desired level of spiciness.
