The heat we’ve experienced this last week reminds me that summer is quickly approaching. Summer always reminds me of its compadre – the outdoor grill. Here are a few steps to prepare the grill for the cooking season:
- Preheat the grill to soften any grime on the grill grate.
- Turn off the gas (if applicable).
- Clean the grate with a stiff wire brush dipped in soapy dishwater.
- Once scrubbed and cleaned, wipe the grates with a towel.
- Using a paper towel, pour some oil onto the towel and wipe the grates. Avocado oil is a good option since it has a high smoking point.
Now that the grill is ready for us, let’s get grilling! Most of us think of grilling hamburgers, hot dogs, or steaks, but why not try vegetables on the grill? The flavor of vegetables intensifies on the grill, and they are delicious. Here are some tips for grilling vegetables:
- Slice the vegetables to the same thickness, so they cook at the same rate. Note that slicing the vegetables too thin can make the veggies dissolve while on the grill.
- Once sliced, drizzle the vegetables with avocado oil, then spread it evenly over the veggies.
- You can leave them plain or sprinkle the vegetables generously with whatever spices you enjoy like black pepper, oregano, chili powder, chipotle pepper powder, etc.
- Start your veggies over medium-high heat, around 450°F. Lay the long slices crosswise over the grate with veggies like carrots or zucchini. Close the grill lid, cook the vegetables, flipping after approximately 3-4 minutes, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
When ready to eat, sprinkle the veggies with shredded parmesan or dice them and add them to a pasta salad. Enjoy grilling!