Three alternative ways to use your barbecue this summer
If you only use your barbecue to make hotdogs and hamburgers, then you’re missing out on a great deal of culinary delights! If you feel like improving your barbecuing skills and serving up something different (that maybe doesn’t come with a side of ketchup), consider these three tasty suggestions:
Cheeses
When warmed on the grill for several minutes, a wheel of cheese (like brie or Camembert, for example) enhanced with different flavourings (maple syrup, nuts, spices, honey, fruit, dried tomatoes, etc.) is one of the best ways to appeal to your guests’ taste buds. Is there anything better than dipping your cracker or fresh piece of bread in warm, creamy cheese?
Desserts
Did you know that you can even use your barbecue to make scrumptious desserts? Yes, it’s true! Here are a few ideas:
• Peach halves stuffed with nuts and chocolate
• Strawberry and marshmallow kebabs
• Apple and strawberry cobbler • An upside-down rhubarb and blueberry cake
A little gourmet tip: Serve your desserts nice and warm with a scoop of ice cream on the side. The contrast between hot and cold is absolutely delicious!
Pasta
The popular “one-pot pasta” culinary trend is perfect for people who love easy-to-make recipes that don’t leave a mess. The idea is straightforward: place all of your ingredients (cream, pasta, tomatoes, garlic, onions, spices, sausage bits, etc.) in a single casserole dish, and let your barbecue take care of the rest. (Make sure to stir the pasta every so often as it cooks.) And there you have it! The next time you host an outdoor dinner party, you can use your barbecue to serve up a flavourful pasta dish.