13 Things You Should Be Grilling but Probably Aren't

Updated on 6/9/2015 at 6:00 AM

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POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff

Summer is grilling season, which is so much more than just traditional barbecue. That's why we partnered with Weber for this post.
Everyone knows burgers are the best after sizzling on the grill, but there are lots of other items that benefit from time under the dome. Yes, hot dogs are a must, but you might discover new favorite Summer dishes when venturing away from traditional barbecue eats. Check out 13 favorites you have to try the next time you light up the grill.

Grilled cheese sandwiches: Just like cooking grilled cheese in a skillet, they toast up quickly on the grill, too. Lightly coat one side of bread with butter, then keep it simple and layer in your favorite cheeses. You can also add grilled veggies for ridiculously good sandwiches.

Bananas: Slice firm bananas in half lengthwise, lightly coat with oil, then place on hot grates for a minute before serving over ice cream. The edges caramelize into something so delicious.
Fresh herbs: Place fresh rosemary, oregano, or basil leaves on your trusty grill grates, which gives them a quick char. Leave the grill open while they cook, removing once they start to smoke. Sprinkle over grilled meats or toss in salads.
Watermelon: Sure, watermelon is so refreshing when served cold, but you can also toss it on the grill for a really unique side dish. And clusters of grapes, peaches, and nectarines taste so good after they get a sear, too.

Brie: One of my favorite things to warm on the grill is a whole wheel of brie. Place the cold cheese on indirect medium heat with the grill open for a 10 count, turning to create grill marks. Flip and mark the other side then serve with a baguette, which you can also slice and toast on the grill!
Tomatoes: Just a few minutes over medium heat totally changes the flavor of tomatoes. Use big slices or cut Roma tomatoes in half, coat with oil, and grill before adding to salads.
Romaine: Your salad greens also take on a smoky flavor after a short time on the grill. Slice whole heads in half, leaving the core intact, brush with oil, and place on cooking grates. Cook uncovered until the edges of the leaves just start to brown, then serve.

Lemons and limes: Slice citrus in half and place directly on the grates for a bit of caramelized flavor before spritzing the juice over salads or freshly cooked fish. Grilling really brings out the flavor of lemons and limes — and they turn into pretty garnishes.
Garlic: Just like roasting garlic in the oven, you can warm it on your grill, too. Cut off the top of a head of garlic to expose the cloves, then drizzle with olive oil and wrap in tinfoil. Cook over indirect medium heat until soft, around 45 minutes. Smear roasted cloves on toasted bread or over cooked meats for extra garlic flavor.
Avocados: Grilling turns avocados into a deliciously warm addition to salads — or a side dish all on their own. Slice in half and remove the pits, coat with oil, and place directly on the cooking grates for a few minutes. Remove and serve with a spritz of lemon and sea salt.

Quesadillas: Make room for a few tortillas on the grill, then top with shredded cheese and your favorite fillings. Fold over for quick-and-easy quesadillas.
Frozen pizza: This might be one of the best things ever to do with a frozen pizza. Toss it on a cooler spot on your grill and let it cook until the cheese has melted. The crust gets wonderfully crisp while the pizza picks up some of the grill's flavor.
Pineapple: Delicious on its own after a quick grill, rounds of pineapple also make great beddings for delicate fish filets that can stick to the grates. Place fish right on the pineapple and let it cook through. Finish with a quick sear and you have really flavorful fish.

More From Weber
Watermelon is a go-to Summer fruit. Chips and salsa are a Summer favorite. Throw them all together and you're in for a delightful, tasty seasonal treat! Watch the video below to see this recipe in action, and don't forget to check out the new Weber® portable gas grills. Now in six fun colors!