9 Foods You Might Not Think to Grill but Should Try

Grilling isn’t just for burgers and steaks. High heat and a little smoky char can bring out new flavors and textures in everyday foods, from juicy fruit and creamy avocado to crisp bread and hearty vegetables. If you’re ready to move beyond the usual cookout staples, these nine foods are worth adding to the grill.

Romaine Lettuce

A quick trip to the grill gives romaine a lightly smoky flavor while keeping the center tender and crisp. Slice the lettuce in half lengthwise, brush the cut side with olive oil, and grill it cut-side down for a minute or two. Finish with Caesar dressing and shaved Parmesan for a simple grilled salad.

Avocados

Grilling avocado brings out its creamy richness while adding a subtle smoky flavor. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, brush the flesh lightly with oil, and place it flesh-side down on the grill for a few minutes. Grilled avocado works well in tacos, burgers, salads, or simply topped with salsa and lime.

Watermelon

Grilling watermelon creates a warm, lightly charred exterior and brings out its natural sweetness. Cut the watermelon into thick slices or wedges so they hold together on the grill, then cook briefly over high heat. Try serving it with feta and mint, or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-and-savory combination.

Pineapple

Fresh pineapple becomes sweeter and develops caramelized edges when grilled. Cut it into rings or spears and grill until you see distinct grill marks and the edges begin to brown. Enjoy it on its own, serve it with ice cream, or pair it with grilled chicken, pork, or tacos.

Halloumi Cheese

Halloumi is particularly well suited to grilling because its firm texture allows it to hold its shape over high heat. Grill slices until they’re golden on the outside and warm inside, turning them carefully to brown both sides. Serve the cheese with lemon, fresh herbs, honey, or alongside grilled vegetables.

Bread

From thick slices of sourdough to naan and other flatbreads, bread takes on extra crunch and smoky flavor when grilled. Brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter and grill it briefly on both sides, watching closely because it can burn quickly. Use grilled bread for bruschetta, sandwiches, dipping, or as a simple side for grilled vegetables.

Peaches

Grilling peaches softens the fruit and caramelizes its natural sugars, making them an easy summer dessert or side dish. Cut ripe but firm peaches in half, remove the pits, and grill them cut-side down until they develop visible grill marks. Serve them with vanilla ice cream or yogurt, or pair them with grilled pork or chicken for a sweet-and-savory combination.

Oysters

Grilling oysters adds a smoky element to their natural briny flavor and can make them an impressive appetizer. Place them carefully on the grill and cook until the shells open, then use caution when handling the hot shells. Top the oysters with butter, garlic, herbs, or lemon, and follow safe seafood-handling practices when preparing them.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes make a hearty grilled side dish when cut into planks or thick rounds. Brush the slices with oil and grill over medium heat until they’re tender inside and browned around the edges, turning as needed. Season them simply with salt and pepper, or add spices such as smoked paprika or cinnamon depending on whether you’re serving them as a savory side or sweeter accompaniment.

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