Last call for BBQ bliss: End-of-summer cookout recipes to enjoy

Photo of author

| Published:

As the sun begins to set a little earlier and the evenings take on a subtle chill, it’s the perfect time to gather around the grill and celebrate the end-of-summer with a sensational cookout. Our collection of recipes brings you a symphony of flavors to savor and a final hurrah to bid farewell to the warm days and lazy nights.

Overhead shot of lamb kofta kebabs with sauces and garnishes.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Kabobs

Beef kabobs on red plate.
Beef kabobs. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Fire up the grill and prepare mouthwatering beef kabobs for your cookout, featuring tender chunks of marinated beef, interspersed with succulent tomatoes, green peppers, and onions—a delectable and protein-packed option that will satisfy every meat lover at the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Beef Kabobs

Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Spice up your cookout with a flavorful twist by making Mexican macaroni salad, combining elbow pasta with vibrant bell peppers, olives, black beans, and a zesty taco dressing—a refreshing and colorful side dish that will impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Recipe for Grape Salad

Grape Salad in clear bowl with green grapes in background.
Recipe for Grape Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Add a touch of sweetness to your cookout with a grape salad featuring juicy grapes, cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla pudding—a sweet side dish that complements grilled vegetables and meat.
Get the Recipe: Recipe for Grape Salad

Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe

Fresh squeezed lemonade with straw in mason jar.
Fresh Squeezed Lemonade. Photo credit: Real Life Of LuLu

Beat the summer heat at your cookout by preparing a refreshing batch of fresh squeezed lemonade, combining the tangy juice of ripe lemons, sweetness from the sugar, and a handful of ice cubes—a classic and thirst-quenching beverage that is sure to keep your guests cool and hydrated.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe

No Bake Brownies

Close up side view of three no bake brownies on white plate.
No bake brownies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Keep your cookout cool and hassle-free with no bake brownies, combining crushed graham crackers, marshmallows, melted chocolate, and evaporated milk, chilled until firm—a delightful and fudgy treat that requires no oven time.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Brownies

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Overhead shot of lamb kofta kebabs with sauces and garnishes.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Transport your taste buds to the Middle East with these flavorful skewers. Ground lamb, fresh herbs, and Middle Eastern spices create juicy kebabs that are perfect for a cookout. Serve with tzatziki, harissa, hummus, and pita for an authentic experience.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Spicy Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon with zucchini noodles and lime.
Spicy Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Get ready to spice up your cookout with this fiery grilled salmon! The zesty marinade, packed with a punch of flavors, perfectly complements the tender fish. It’s a great cookout recipe as it adds a vibrant twist to the menu and satisfies seafood lovers with its tantalizing heat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Grilled Salmon

Tropical Fruit Salad

tropical fruit salad with ice cream topping.
Tropical Fruit Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Elevate your cookout experience with this vibrant fruit salad that brings the tropical essence of Colombia to your table. Bursting with the sweetness of ripe mango and an array of other fruits, it’s the perfect refreshing and healthy accompaniment for your outdoor gathering!
Get the Recipe: Tropical Fruit Salad

Grilled Corn On The Cob

A pan filled with ears of grilled corn.
Grilled Corn. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Are you grilling this weekend? Throw some freshly picked corn on the cob in the husks on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Arnold Palmer

An arnold palmer drink on a white background.
Iced Tea Lemonade. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Iced tea and lemonade are the perfect combination for cookout refreshments. It’s all about nailing the ratio for this duo named for the golf pro. Add a splash of vodka to make it a John Daly — another famous golfer.
Get the Recipe: Arnold Palmer

Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

Strawberry yogurt parfait in a stemless wine glass with another one in the background.
Strawberry yogurt parfait. Credit: Thriving In Parenting.

This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for any BBQ. The best part is that it’s made with wholesome ingredients and no added sugar. So enjoy this guilt-free goodness while relishing the refreshing breeze of nature.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

Montana Mule

Copper mugs filled with refreshing Montana mules.
Montana mule. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

Add a delightful Montana touch to your cookout by serving up the Montana Mule—a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow mule that boasts the quintessential flavor of the region with huckleberry vodka and fresh huckleberries.
Get the Recipe: Montana Mule

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice, cucumbers, cilantro and chopsticks.
Beef Bulgogi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tender slices of marinated beef are grilled to perfection, bringing the vibrant flavors of a global cookout. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this easy weeknight dinner is a satisfying one-bowl meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beer Boiled Brats

Beer boiled brat on a white plate with fries.
Beer boiled brats. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Bratwurst is a summer classic, and it’s even better when you make beer boiled brats. They are incredibly juicy and so flavorful. It’s a grilling win every time.
Get the Recipe: Beer Boiled Brats

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh Salad inside colorful bowls.
Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Create a burst of healthiness at your cookout with this quick and refreshing Lebanese Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this Mediterranean keto tabouli salad, complete with a low-carb twist by swapping bulgur wheat for hemp seeds. Embrace the goodness of this entirely gluten-free, grain-free, low-carb, vegetarian, and diabetic-friendly recipe that’s perfect for your outdoor gathering!
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Chicken mu in a brown bowl.
Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Bring the irresistible flavors of Korea to your cookout with our easy-to-make Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish recipe. Whether served as a side or incorporated into various Korean dishes, this crunchy delight adds a unique twist to your outdoor gathering. Indulge in the small, cold, and cubed deliciousness of pickled daikon that perfectly complements the taste of Korean fried chicken.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip with vegetable sticks
Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Whip up this effortless onion dip with just three simple ingredients. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect companion for your cookout spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Pickled Eggs

pickled eggs in glass pitcher
Pickled eggs. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Add a tangy and protein-packed snack to your cookout with these flavorful pickled eggs. They’re a delightful combination of zesty flavors and satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Eggs

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Bowl of creamy dill cucumber onion salad in a bowl with spoons.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up a quick and delightful addition to your cookout with this Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Made with sour cream and mayo, this crisp, light, and refreshing dish can be prepared and served within 30 minutes, making it an ideal side.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce in clear jar with spoon dripping above.
Barbecue sauce. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Elevate your cookout experience with homemade barbecue sauce, crafted with a perfect blend of spices—a flavor-packed condiment that adds a delicious kick to your grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Barbecue Sauce

Classic Banana Pudding

Layered banana pudding in clear trifle bowl with crushed Nilla Wafers on top.
Classic banana pudding. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Treat your guests to a classic Southern dessert at the cookout by layering slices of ripe bananas, creamy banana pudding, and fluffy whipped cream between a bed of vanilla wafers—a luscious banana pudding that is sure to be the star of your summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Classic Banana Pudding

Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Overhead view of sockeye salmon in cast iron pan.
Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Impress your guests at the cookout with this pan-fried sockeye salmon. Its crispy exterior and succulent flesh make it a fantastic choice for a flavorful and elegant main dish that will surely elevate any cookout gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Bacon ranch pasta salad in a clear bowl with a striped towel.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon is a rich and creamy side dish that pairs super well with all your summertime favorites. Prep this 30-minute, one-bowl salad, and it will be a welcome addition to your cookout menu.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Broccoli Crunch Salad

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo Credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This broccoli crunch salad is a crowd-pleasing option for summer cookouts. With crisp broccoli florets, crunchy almonds, and a tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing and nutritious addition to any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Blueberry Mojito

A blueberry mojito sits next to a bowl of fresh blueberries, a jar of simple syrup and a bunch of mint.
Blueberry Mojito. Photo credit: Feast + West.

This summer, cool down with refreshing Blueberry Mojitos. Made with fresh mint and berries from the garden or farmers market, this sweet and minty drink is the perfect cocktail for a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Mojito

Kefta Kebabs

Kefta kebabs on skewers on a white platter.
Kefta kebabs. Photo Credit: Honest and Truly.

Forget the same old burgers, these kofta kebabs are a perfect choice for a cookout. They’re easy to make and filled with flavor. This is a winner, so be ready to share the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs

Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad on a salad leaves.
Avocado Egg Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Elevate your cookout menu with the indulgence of our Best Avocado Egg Salad Recipe. Crafted with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, this twist on the classic egg salad with mayo brings a keto and low-carb option to the table. Embrace the healthy essence of this dish, where the creamy richness of avocado adds a delectable and satisfying texture to your outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad

Electric Lemonade

two glasses of electric lemonade with lemon wedge
Electric Lemonade. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life

Beat the summer heat with this refreshing and electrifying lemonade. Bursting with citrusy goodness and a hint of sweetness, it’s the ultimate thirst-quencher for your outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Electric Lemonade

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies on cooling rack
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Add a wholesome touch to your cookout indulgence with these classic chocolate chip cookies that come with a healthy surprise. These cookies are ingeniously crafted with two secret nutritious ingredients, making them a delightful and guilt-free addition to your outdoor gathering. Savor the familiar taste and texture of a chocolate chip cookie while enjoying the benefits of this clever twist.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cucumber Tomato Bites

A hand holding a cucumber tomato bite.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up a delightful addition to your cookout spread with these Cucumber Tomato Bites—a speedy, flavorful, and low-carb vegetarian appetizer that can be prepared in under 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon

Overhead view of fire-grilled salmon in white plate.
Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Bring the smoky flavors of the grill to your cookout with this Nordic fire-grilled salmon. The charred exterior and tender flesh deliver a delightful combination of taste and texture. Embrace the essence of outdoor cooking with this sensational salmon recipe.
Get the Recipe: Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon

Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Bread and butter pickles in brine in a white dish.
Bread and Butter Pickles. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Elevate your cookout experience with the taste of our crispy Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles—simple to make, slightly sweet, and pleasantly sour. Skip the cooking and canning process, and opt for this effortless small batch recipe that delivers the best fresh pickles for your outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Texas Caviar

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Add some Southwestern flair to your summer cookouts with this Texas caviar recipe. The combination of black-eyed peas, colorful veggies, and zesty dressing creates a flavorful and satisfying salad.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar

Caprese Salad Skewers

caprese skewers on a silver tray.
Caprese Salad Skewers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Enhance your cookout with a creative twist on the classic summer dish by serving Caprese salad on skewers. Elevate your party with the delightful combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic vinegar, which effortlessly doubles as both an appetizer and a side dish for your outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad Skewers

Thai Chicken Satay

overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.
Thai Chicken Satay. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embark on a culinary journey to Thailand with this grilled chicken recipe. Infused with aromatic spices like turmeric, lemongrass, and chiles, these tender skewers are a delightful addition to a cookout. Dip them in a rich and spicy Thai Peanut Sauce for an explosion of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Grilled Fruit Kebabs with Brown Sugar Caramel

Grilled fruit with ice cream in a glass with caramel sauce being poured on it.
Grilled fruit kebabs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

You can grill anything, and that includes fruit. These kebabs are so tasty and perfect alone or with some vanilla ice cream and a homemade brown sugar caramel sauce to drizzle over them.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Kebabs with Brown Sugar Caramel

Crispy​ Garlic Low Carb Croutons

Croutons spread on a wood with herbs.
Crispy​ Garlic Low Carb Croutons. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Upgrade your cookout experience with the delightful addition of Crispy Garlic Low Carb Croutons, made effortlessly in an Air Fryer. These delicious, quick-to-make croutons will take your salads and soups to new heights, thanks to their crunchy, gluten-free, and low-carb goodness. Elevate your comfort food indulgence with the best keto bread recipe, enhancing your outdoor gathering with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Crispy​ Garlic Low Carb Croutons

Spinach Salmon Burgers

Keto Spinach Salmon Burgers with cheddar cheese
Keto Spinach Salmon Burgers. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Elevate your cookout menu with these flavorful and nutritious spinach salmon burgers. Packed with omega-3-rich salmon and vibrant spinach, they’re a healthy and tasty option for outdoor dining.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Salmon Burgers

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garnished shrimp cucumber bites on a plate.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Shrimp Cucumber Bites are a perfect cookout appetizer that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and serve! Featuring ingredients like shrimp, cajun seasoning, homemade guacamole, and cucumber slices, this recipe is low-carb, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema

Side view of salmon skewers with more in background.
Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Add a burst of summer flavors to your cookout with these peach salmon skewers. The juicy peaches complement the succulent salmon, while the peach jalapeno crema adds a zesty kick. These skewers are a delightful and vibrant addition to any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

Strawberry rice krispies on a white plate and a white towel.
Strawberry Rice Krispies. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

With just 4-ingredients you can make these amazing Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats. Fruity, gooey, and divinely pink, these strawberry bars always make perfect no-bake treats for your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

Amish Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish potato salad is a classic make-ahead side dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts. With its creamy dressing, tender potatoes, and a touch of tanginess, it’s a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Melon Salad with Mozzarella and Mint

A bowl of melon salad with mozzarella cheese on a blue cloth.
Melon Salad with Mozzarella and Mint. Photo credit: Feast + West.

This delicious melon salad features mozzarella, fresh mint and salty prosciutto. It’s perfect for picnics, cookouts and barbecues.
Get the Recipe: Melon Salad with Mozzarella and Mint

Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
Grilled Flank Steak With Chili Butter. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Take your taste buds on a flavor-filled journey with this grilled flank steak recipe. Topped with sweet and spicy chili butter, this dish is the perfect addition to a cookout. Prepare to savor every juicy and tender bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Summer Pasta Salad

Image shows a closeup of a Summer Pasta Salad with Mediterranean flavors.
Summer Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Savor the taste of summer with this mayo-free pasta salad. This refreshing and light salad combines al dente pasta with fresh veggies like corn and tomatoes, plus tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a satisfying side dish.
Get the Recipe: Summer Pasta Salad

Faux Potato Salad Recipe

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Elevate your cookout feast with our Faux Potato Salad Recipe, crafted for even tastier enjoyment without using cauliflower. This gluten-free and diabetic-friendly version of low-carb yogurt mayonnaise potato salad features turnip radish, providing the ultimate potato alternative that’s perfect for your outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad Recipe

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs.
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Experience the taste of the Mediterranean at your barbecue with the Mediterranean White Bean Salad. The creamy white beans, juicy tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese come together to create a refreshing summer salad that is both satisfying and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Copycat Sonic Ocean Water

Sonic ocean water in a mason jar with a pink straw and more in the background.

This copycat Sonic Ocean Water recipe is just perfect for your cookout. This coconut-flavored drink will transport you straight to a beachy paradise.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Sonic Ocean Water

Peach Popsicles

Peaches and cream popsicles on a blue plate sit with whole peaches surrounding them on a white background.

These creamy Peach Popsicles are the sweetest way to beat the heat this summer! You’ll love this delicious fruity recipe at your barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Peach Popsicles

Chipotle Turkey Burgers with Cilantro-Lime Crema

Chipotle turkey burger with avocado on a blue plate.
Chipotle Turkey Burger. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your grill with these flavorful turkey burgers. Infused with chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, cilantro, scallions, and lime, these burgers offer a global twist to your cookout, pleasing both spice enthusiasts and burger lovers alike.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Turkey Burgers with Cilantro-Lime Crema

Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger

Bacon cheddar stuffed burger cut in half and on a white plate.
Bacon cheddar stuffed burger. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Get ready to elevate your cookout game with the irresistible Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger. Sink your teeth into juicy, flavorful beef patties that are generously filled with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon—transforming your burger into a taste sensation that’s perfect for your outdoor gathering. Prepare to indulge in the ultimate burger experience, crafting memories with each succulent and crave-worthy bite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.