Everyone knows that summer is the best time to cook outdoors! There are a few days left of National Grilling Month (July), and then the entire month of August—and probably part of September—to hone your skills at the grill.

A 2015 survey from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) revealed that 75% of U.S. adults own a grill or smoker—5.5 percent of whom grill more than once a week! The top three reasons survey participants gave for cooking outdoors included: to improve flavor; for personal enjoyment; and for entertaining friends and families.

Steaks! Burgers! Barbecue ribs, oh my! Meat might be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about grilling, but there are plenty of non-meat grilling options, including fruit and vegetables. Here are just a few ideas to whet your appetite:

Grill those veggies

Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Spicy Lime Dressing
Keep getting cabbages in your CSA box? Sick of slaw? Throw a couple quartered cabbages on the grill for a delicious char.

Grilled Zucchini & Squash Stacks with Mozzarella, Goat Cheese & Balsamic Drizzle
Grill a couple batches for the neighborhood block party to get rid of that zucchini that’s taken over the garden.

Grilled Chipotle Lime Cauliflower Steaks
Smoky, hearty, and delicious… although they probably won’t fool those hardcore meat lovers.

Other vegetables that work well on the grill include corn on the cob, broccoli, asparagus, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts (blanch them in boiling salted water first), mushrooms, and kale (yes, we said it).

Don’t forget the fruit

Bananas, apples, figs, cantaloupe, strawberries, and pineapples are also delicious when cooked over a grill.

How to Grill Peaches
Grilling enhances the natural juiciness and sweetness of peaches.

Grilled Watermelon Burgers
Yeah, you read that right. Cheese on top cuts the sweetness of this unique, meat-free treat!

Grilled Fruit Skewers with Spicy Maple Cumin Glaze
Perfect for a dessert or spicy side dish.

At the St. Peter Food Co-op we’ve got plenty of locally-produced fruits and veggies as well as sustainably sourced meat for you to grill this summer. Stop by for a visit!