Ah, summertime. Family time. Pool time. And best of all … grilling time. Grilled food is one of life’s simple pleasures. It’s healthier for you and offers a diverse range of foods and recipes to try. Plus, you get to cook outside, while spending time with friends and family. In honor of National Grilling Month this July, we’re delving into four interesting grilling facts and providing you with three delectable grilling recipes. We hope you try these recipes for the Fourth of July and enjoy grilling delicious meals on your backyard grill this summer.
4 Surprising Grilling Facts
1. Cutting the Fat
Unlike frying or cooking with oil or butter on the stove, grilled food does not involve using breaded coatings or excess fat to prepare food. Additionally, with cuts of meat like beef and pork, the heat from the grill melts some of the fat rendering the cut less fatty. This makes grilled meat a leaner choice for a healthy diet.
2. Preserving Nutrients
Grilling is a healthier way to cook meat and vegetables, as it preserves the food’s nutrients. For meat, thiamine (Vitamin B1) and riboflavin (Vitamin B2) are retained. Thiamine in the body helps carbohydrates break down into energy and prevents certain diseases, while Riboflavin helps with energy production. Grilling fresh, seasonal vegetables is healthier than frozen and canned ones. As vegetables cook faster, their vitamins and minerals are maintained, which ensures more retention of their nutrients.
3. Marinating with Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthier kind of fat — ideal for marinating and grilling. It’s very high in monosaturated fats and contains modest amounts of Vitamins E and K. Extra virgin olive oil is also loaded with antioxidants, some of which have powerful health benefits, such as fighting inflammation and reducing blood pressure. A light touch of olive oil along with seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, etc.) can add flavor, as well as a healthy touch to your food.
4. Enhanced Flavor
Grilled food tastes better. Why? As you grill, proteins break down into amino acids, which then react with the carbohydrates that are present to produce the scent and satisfying taste we all crave. Meats, when grilled, brown and retain their juices for a savory flavor. If you use a charcoal grill, the charcoal adds a hint of smoky flavor. Grilled vegetables become caramelized, which enhances their sweetness. Adding additional seasonings, marinades or injecting them with your choice of brine, marinades, etc. can help heighten flavor profiles.
3 SAVORY RECIPES FOR THE GRILL
Here are three irresistible steak recipes to try on the grill. Before you light the grill in your outdoor kitchen, take a look at these tips and recipes from the steak experts at Omaha Steaks®.
GRILLED FILET MIGNON WITH ROASTED LEEKS AND FENNEL
Impeccable steak flavor collides with the sweet, nutritious taste of roasted leeks and fennel in this wholesome savory recipe. With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.
RIBEYE CROWN ROAST + SMOKY BACON, CHIVE AND SHALLOT BUTTER
The Private Reserve® ribeye crown roast, an Omaha Steaks exclusive, is carved from the most prized part of the ribeye and makes the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings. Get tips for cooking this amazing cut of meat via slow roast, quick roast, gas grill and charcoal grill.
CARNITAS-STYLE GRILLED BEEF TACOS
Healthy, hearty tacos are always a hit at any gathering. Omaha Steaks Flat Iron Steaks, marinated in sauce bursting with zesty flavor, are topped with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for to-die-for freshness. Tomatillo and avocado salsa combine to make the perfect garnish for this crowd-pleasing dish.
NEED AN OUTDOOR GRILL?
With new recipes to try, all you may need now is a grill. Belgard can help you find a new grill for your patio or deck. Explore some great choices from our Elements™ collection. From built-in grills to the Blue Diamond Smoker, we’re here for your grilling needs.
So, get outside this July and enjoy the thrill of the grill with your friends and family!
Recipes and photos courtesy of Omaha Steaks.
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