Summer Grilled Meats With Citrus Marinades

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Summer grilling is all about easy, flavorful meals that bring everyone together, and this recipe delivers just that. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with big, bold flavors that shine in every bite.

• Quick and easy prep—minimal ingredients, maximum taste, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine.
• Juicy, smoky perfection—tender meat with that irresistible charred edge, straight from the grill.
• Versatile for any occasion—perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts, with options to customize for picky eaters or spice lovers.

Recipe

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy delicious, smoky flavors. This simple yet flavorful recipe for summer grilled meats is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just cooking for the family. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of your choice of meat (steak, chicken, pork chops, or lamb)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
2. Place the meat in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Confirm the meat is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the meat from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill the meat for 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness (internal temperature: 145°F for beef/pork, 165°F for chicken).
5. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.

Notes:

• Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of the meat.
• For an extra charred flavor, brush the meat with a bit of the reserved marinade during the last minute of grilling.

Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including marinating)

Serving: 4-6

Calories: ~250-350 per serving (depending on meat choice)

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Grilled meats are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

When I’m grilling meats in the summer, I love pairing them with fresh side dishes like grilled veggies or corn on the cob for a burst of flavor. Light summer salads, such as a tangy cucumber or a zesty tomato basil, always balance the meal perfectly. These sides keep things invigorating and make the whole spread feel complete.

Fresh Side Dishes

Nothing beats the smoky flavor of grilled meats, but they’re even better when paired with bright, fresh sides that balance every bite. I love using fresh herb combinations like basil, mint, and cilantro to add a pop of flavor to simple dishes. Tossing grilled corn with a mix of herbs and a squeeze of lime is a game-changer. Seasonal fruit pairings also shine—think watermelon slices with feta or grilled peaches drizzled with honey. These sides not only complement the richness of the meat but also bring a revitalizing twist to the table, making every bite feel like summer.

Light Summer Salads

Though grilled meats take center stage in summer, a crisp, revitalizing salad can turn a simple meal into something special. I love pairing my citrus-marinated chicken or steak with salads that feature light summer dressings, like a zesty lemon vinaigrette or a tangy yogurt-based drizzle. Grilled vegetable pairings, such as charred zucchini, bell peppers, or corn, add smoky depth and a satisfying crunch. Toss in some fresh greens, herbs, and a sprinkle of feta or nuts, and you’ve got a balanced, invigorating side. It’s the perfect way to complement rich flavors while keeping things bright and healthy.