Summer on the Grill

Grilling is one of the greatest pleasures of summer. The smell of charred edges, the sizzle of fresh produce, and that unmistakable smoky flavor that says: this meal was made outside. From easy vegetables to showstopping burgers, grilling offers something for everyone.

What to Grill This Season

• Corn on the Cob: Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and grill until charred. Try with lime zest and cotija cheese or mayonnaise and chili powder.

• Zucchini & Squash: Slice lengthwise, season, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.

• Peaches or Plums: Halve, remove pit, and grill cut-side down until caramelized. Serve with burrata or whipped ricotta.

• Halloumi or Paneer: These sturdy cheeses don’t melt and grill beautifully.

Feature Recipe: Caroline’s Summer Burger

This burger is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy. It features caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, a punchy lemon jalapeño preserve, peppery arugula, and a soft brioche bun.

Components & Recipes

1. Caramelized Onions

Ingredients:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.

2. Add onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes, until deeply golden and soft.

2. Lemon Jalapeño Preserves

Ingredients:

• 2 Meyer lemons, thinly sliced, seeds removed

• 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 1/2 cups sugar

• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes until thickened.

2. Let cool before using. Keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

3. Burger Patties

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef tenderloin (or a mix of tenderloin and chuck)

• 1 small shallot, finely minced and sautéed until soft

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Form into patties. Season both sides generously.

2. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium.

4. Assembly

• Toasted brioche buns

• Goat cheese (soft, fresh)

• Arugula

To Assemble:

1. Spread goat cheese on the bottom bun.

2. Add burger patty, a spoonful of caramelized onions, a dollop of lemon jalapeño preserve, a handful of arugula, and the top bun.

This burger delivers bold summer flavor in every bite! Perfect for cookouts, date nights, or just because. Stay tuned next week for our no-cook summer desserts!