Summer gives us two things: ample sunshine and a day dedicated to Dad.
And whether your old man is king of the grill or enjoys mixing up cocktails behind the bar, he deserves a meal that’s as special as him.
So, to say “cheers” to good ol’ Dad, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite grilling recipes and side pairings to inspire you to make something magical for the #1 guy in your life.
Check them out below.
This Father’s Day, give Dad the gift he’s really been craving—whether he’s a wiz in the kitchen, a master mixologist or the best burger flipper around, there’s something special for every dad.
If you’ve never experimented with salt block cooking, this is your sign.
Salt blocks impart their own unique minerality and saltiness to foods, which is a great way to give old recipes a fresh twist. Plus, salt blocks cook foods like cast iron—they distribute heat evenly and thoroughly, creating that beautiful crust on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside.
For a well-rounded meal, enjoy it with this easy but oh-so good antipasto pasta salad.
Salmon is great year-round, but we especially love it during the summer months when we can pop it on the grill and serve it alongside a fresh, herby green sauce.
This recipe calls for fresh peas, but if they’re hard to track down, a thawed bag of frozen peas will work just as well. Serve alongside some homemade rice pilaf for a light yet utterly satisfying dinner.
Get the Grilled Salmon with Green Pea and Mint Pesto recipe!
There’s something about shrimp on the grill that just screams “SUMMER!” And this recipe—with its additions of fresh ginger, lemon zest, orange juice and cilantro—is one we’ll be enjoying all season long.
Feeling adventurous? This Thai fried rice recipe complements the flavors of the shrimp seamlessly.
If Dad refuses to give up grilling duties, at least make his job easy with this simple but elevated skewer recipe.
The fish is marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and thyme, giving it layers of depth and bright, summery flavors. Assemble the skewers, then while you’re busy whipping up the homemade basil aioli (we know, yum), let the big guy handle the rest!
Get the Grilled Fish and Smoked Sausage Skewers with Basil Aioli recipe!
If you’re enjoying Father’s Day seaside, then this grilled ahi recipe is for you.
The tuna is marinated in soy sauce, orange juice, lime juice, rice vinegar and sugar and then grilled until the outside is golden brown but the center is still rare, about 2 minutes. This dish is best enjoyed with a light, summery salad (we like this one made of butter lettuce and radishes) and the fresh ocean air.
Sure, lamb is usually enjoyed in the spring. But we think this recipe—with its bouquet of herbs and splash of lemon juice—is just as good under the hot summer sun.
Serve alongside this asparagus and farro salad for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Does it get better than steak and French fries? No, we don’t think so either.
Actually, scratch that—it does get better, but only when you bite into this juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak that’s topped with a tangy, creamy and delicately salted homemade mustard butter that’s the perfect complement to the fries.
Sure, sure. We can understand why steak marinated in a coffee-based dry rub might not sound all that appetizing at first. But hey, don’t knock it ‘til you try it, right?
Coffee plays a very important role in this recipe—it helps to tenderize the meat, which in turn helps to retain moisture during the cooking process. Plus, the bean’s natural flavors pair exceptionally well with notes of chili powder, paprika and thyme in the dry rub. The result? A savory, spiced steak that’s so good, it practically melts in your mouth.
Serve this one with some homemade tortillas and your favorite fajita or taco toppings. And an ice cold margarita, of course.
Want to make dad feel extra special? Then indulge him with this Southern Italian-inspired steak recipe.
Marsala and shallots combine with beef broth and thyme to create a savory pan sauce that’s equal parts decadent and easy. Plus, it’s mighty impressive when served atop classic—but always enjoyed—mashed potatoes.
Get the Grilled Steak with Marsala and Shallot Pan Sauce recipe!
Ah, ribs. Does it get any more ‘classic cookout’ than a rack of ribs?
And while they’re typically an all-day slow cooking endeavor, this recipe offers a simpler option by cooking the ribs in the oven with a dry rub and then finishing them on the grill. The result? A saucy, perfectly spiced dish that’s best enjoyed with lots of napkins.
Try them with this classic German potato salad for a hearty meal that Dad won’t get enough of.
Get the Chile Glazed Baby Back Ribs recipe!
This Father’s Day, give Dad the gift he’s really been craving—whether he’s a wiz in the kitchen, a master mixologist or the best burger flipper around, there’s something special for every dad.
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