Spicy, Sweet, and Smoky Summer Grilling

Posted by Jennifer Thornton on 8th May 2015

Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, smoky, or all three, we have the flavors to make your summer grilling so very exciting! Last summer, we gave you our top grilling tips on how to best utilize olive oil and vinegars for marinating, basting, and glazing. This year we are bringing you new vibrant flavors to inspire you to get those charcoals burning!

A kick of spice:

Some cannot get enough of that spicy heat, so we are bringing you a new Citrus Habanero Olive Oil to highlight the best of summer flavors. Not only does this olive oil make vibrant seafood (think shrimp!), poultry, and other grilled meat dishes, it is an exciting addition to grains and legumes. Leave the stove for winter and bring your cast-iron skillet outdoors to the grill to make sautéed chickpea or bean salads with fresh veggies and herbs. Finish with a pinch of salt and let the fresh citrus and spice flavors shine. To spice up your grilled veggies, try this recipe for Citrus Habanero Grilled Zucchini. If you like to enjoy the spice without so much heat, combine the oil with a sweeter balsamic vinegar. Citrus Habanero pairs perfectly with Mango White Balsamic Vinegar for a new twist to our Fish Taco recipe. Be sure to try our newest recipe, Spicy Citrus and Mango Smoked Salmon Salad, which features Citrus Habanero and Mango White in perfect harmony!

A hint of sweet:

Sweet notes added to savory juicy BBQ adds a tangy twist that is delightful. Our new Mango White Riserva Balsamic Vinegar has a crisp, sweet flavor that complements your grilled seafood and poultry as either a marinade or a glaze. Or use it as a topping by adding it to your favorite home made salsa or slaw recipe. Our Honey Balsamic Vinegar is another summer favorite and adds just a hint of sweetness to steaks and chops, while our Bordeaux Cherry Balsamic Vinegar is so special on a slab of ribs. Lambrusco Wine Vinegar has just enough sweetness to make this Cucumber and Red Onion Salad a tangy accompaniment to your savory BBQ.

A side of smoke:

One of the best things about BBQ is that distinct powerful aroma! We are introducing a new Hickory Barbeque Riserva Balsamic Vinegar that will immediately have you thinking of a grand BBQ! Its enchanting smoky aroma is distinct and delicious. Store-bought barbecue sauces often contain high amounts of sweetening agents, but this special balsamic vinegar has all the sweet and smokiness without the unnecessary ingredients. For a smoky Asian flair, combine it with Roasted Sesame Oil and garlic to pair with all your meats and poultry. Consider trying my favorite recipe for bison burgers. Take 2 lbs of ground bison (or ground beef), add 1/2 cup of your favorite tangy (or spicy!) sauerkraut, 2 tablespoons Hickory Balsamic Vinegar, 1 egg, and salt and pepper to your preference. Grill to your liking and enjoy with caramelized onions. For a smoky surf and turf, try your hand at Cedar Planked Hickory Balsamic Mustard Glazed Salmon and Hickory Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops.

Can you smell the BBQ yet? Happy grilling!