Mariana Velasquez on gathering, beauty and everyday rituals
Grilling season doesn’t wait for peak summer. The first warm evenings are reason enough to step outside, light the grill and start cooking.
And our favorite recipes to kick off the season feel fresh, unfussy and built for gathering. Below, you’ll find a mix of mains, sides and a few unexpected finishes, all designed to make the most of the grill without overcomplicating it.
Turn up the heat on weeknight meals with our chefs’ favorite grilling recipes.
Explore More
Sweet, ripe melon takes on a subtle caramelized edge on the grill, deepening its flavor. Paired with crisped prosciutto and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s a simple starter that feels composed without trying too hard.
A quick trip over the flame adds smoke and warmth while keeping the oysters tender and briny. Finished with a rich, savory topping, they strike that balance between indulgent and effortless.
Light, flaky fish meets a bright, herb-packed gremolata layered with mint, garlic and citrus. The result is clean and balanced, with just enough punch to wake everything up.
Tender shrimp pick up a gentle char before being finished with a silky beurre blanc infused with fresh tarragon. It’s a classic combination that feels just right for an early-season dinner outside.
Swordfish holds up beautifully on the grill, developing a golden crust while staying meaty and moist. Served with slow-cooked peppers and aromatics, it’s a dish that feels both hearty and seasonal.
Grilling softens the natural bitterness of radicchio and endive, adding depth and a subtle smokiness. Tossed with crisp spring radishes, the salad stays fresh, balanced and just a little unexpected.
A quick turn on the grill brings out asparagus’s natural sweetness while adding a light char. It’s simple, direct and exactly what early-season cooking calls for.
Baby artichokes become tender and lightly smoky as they cook, with crisp edges that invite dipping. Paired with a bright lemon aioli, they feel both rustic and refined.
Sweet corn gets a deeper, smokier edge over the grill, with just enough char to bring out its natural richness. Slather it in chipotle-spiked butter and finish with fresh cilantro.
Stone fruit softens and caramelizes over the flame, concentrating its flavor. Finished with a lightly boozy cream, this is a dessert that feels relaxed but considered.
Turn up the heat on weeknight meals with our chefs’ favorite grilling recipes.
Explore More
Join The Conversation