Holiday Meals on Grills!

The holidays are here, and what says celebration more than a good old-fashioned grill-out? Whether you're hosting a Christmas bash, ringing in the New Year, or simply looking for something different at your ugly sweater party, don’t overlook the grill! Not only does it save space in your kitchen for other holiday treats, but it also adds a touch of sunshine to your festivities. (Let’s face it—sometimes you just need an excuse to escape those overbearing relatives!) Below are some practical tips and mouthwatering recipes to help you make the most of your holiday grilling experience.

Grill Prep

Before you start cooking, ensure your grill is in top shape. If it hasn’t seen any action lately, give it a thorough once-over. Start by checking your gas tank—it’s no fun to run out mid-cookout. Also, inspect the gas connections and burners, and scrub the grates clean. For a step-by-step guide on maintaining your grill, check out our article “Keeping Your AEI PGS Grill in Tip-Top Condition.”

Safety First

Let’s talk safety before you fire it up. Never grill indoors—whether it’s in a garage or any other enclosed area. While it might seem cozy to move your grill inside during the colder months, this can lead to serious fire hazards or gas leaks. Once your grill is set up in a safe, open-air location, allow it to preheat. This is especially important during winter, as it takes longer for the grill to reach the desired temperature. Luckily, PGS grills typically heat up within about 10 minutes under ideal conditions, but always double-check the temperature before tossing anything onto the grates.

No matter the season, keeping the lid closed helps retain heat and ensures even cooking. Trust your grill to do its job! And remember, a food thermometer is your best friend in the kitchen—nobody wants undercooked or spoiled food at their holiday feast.

Holiday Grilling Recipes

Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness—here are some fantastic recipes to impress your guests:

Appetizers

• For a cheesy twist on a classic, try Martha Stewart’s grilled cheese wheel.
• Crostini topped with grilled tomatoes is a simple yet elegant starter.
• If you’re looking for something spicier, wrap jalapeños in bacon, stuff them with cheese and chorizo, and grill to perfection.

Main Courses

Pork is a popular choice for New Year’s celebrations, symbolizing progress and prosperity. Lucky for you, pork pairs beautifully with grilling. Here are some ideas:

• Alton Brown’s tenderloin recipe marinated in adobo, lime juice, and cilantro adds a burst of flavor.
• Wrap pork tenderloin in bacon for a decadent twist.
• BBQ baby back ribs are always a hit—they’re smoky, sweet, and savory.
• For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp tossed with garlic and herbs is light yet satisfying.
• A good marinade is essential for grilled chicken—find a simple recipe here.

Sides

• Trade sauerkraut for grilled cabbage—it’s not just tasty but also symbolic of financial prosperity.
• Grilled asparagus seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper is a crowd-pleaser.
• Mushroom skewers work well as either a side dish or an appetizer.

Foil Packets

Enclosing your ingredients in foil packets is an excellent way to cook everything evenly while locking in moisture. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Try these:

• Buttery garlic herb steak packets are sure to please.
• Even breakfast can be grilled—try making a hearty breakfast packet for Christmas morning.

With so many options, there’s no reason not to fire up your AEI gas grill and enjoy some outdoor cooking this holiday season!