Grilling adds smoky depth and caramelized edges to everything from vegetables to lamb. This guide covers the essentials that apply across our grilled recipes.
How grilling works
Grilling cooks food quickly over direct, high heat. That intense heat sears the surface, creating the browned, caramelized crust and smoky aroma that make grilled food so appealing, while the inside stays juicy. Because the heat is direct and fast, grilling suits foods that cook through in a relatively short time — think chicken pieces, shrimp, lamb chops, firm vegetables and tofu. Getting the grill properly hot before the food goes on is the single most important step: a hot grate sears instantly and helps prevent sticking.
Getting the best results
Start with food at room temperature so it cooks evenly, and pat it dry — surface moisture steams instead of searing. A light coat of oil on the food (not the grate) helps browning and reduces sticking. Resist the urge to move or flip constantly: let each side develop a crust before turning. Give the food space so it sears rather than crowds and steams. For anything with a marinade high in sugar or honey, watch closely, since sugars brown fast over direct heat.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common grilling mistakes are a grate that is not hot enough, flipping too early, and overcrowding. Overcooking is the other big one — lean proteins like shrimp and chicken breast go from juicy to dry quickly, so pull them the moment they are done and let them rest. Finally, keep a clean grate: leftover residue causes sticking and off flavors.
Best foods for grilling
Grilling shines with proteins and sturdy vegetables. It is the backbone of many of our recipes, from grilled chicken and lamb to shrimp skewers and charred eggplant.
Related guides
Recipes to try
- Moroccan Grilled Lamb with Smoky Paprika and Herb Couscous
- Moroccan Spiced Grilled Lamb with Garlic Butter
- Spicy Chili Grilled Korean Beef
- Thai Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
- Spicy Chili Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Herb Rice
- Moroccan Lemon Herb Grilled Lamb Chops
- Korean Grilled Beef with Soy Ginger Glaze
- Moroccan Spicy Chili Lamb with Grilled Vegetables
- Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant with Smoky Paprika
- Moroccan Spiced Grilled Eggplant with Garlic Butter
- Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Lemon Sauce
- Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Lemon Drizzle
Ready to cook? Browse all grilling recipes.