Fall Favorites On the Grill

Grilling year round is becoming more popular because it’s a low-fat cooking method, offers easy clean up and gives food a great flavor. So don’t let the chill in the air stop you from firing up your grill! Fall brings new possibilities to your grill from apples and squash to pork loin and grilled greens. Here are some tips to get you started.

Quick Cold Weather Grilling Tips!

Don’t close grill vents. It keeps the grill warmer during cooler months and actually blocks oxygen from escaping. Oxygen is essential for gas and charcoal fires to burn.
Allow time for the grill to warm up. Preheat a gas grill and start charcoal 30 minutes before you want to cook. The colder it is, the longer it will take to for your grill to heat up.
While cooking, keep the grill covered. By resisting the urge to peak, cooking will take less time and the meat will be juicy and tender.

Fall Grilling Recipe Ideas

Pork Loin
Whether you want it for a week-night dinner or to entertain on a weekend, pork loin on the grill is lean, tender, juicy, and makes a fantastic presentation. Make a simple marinade of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, fresh thyme and rosemary. Turn the pork loin frequently while grilling to prevent burning on one side. Switch things up with boneless or bone-in pork chops!

Apples
Slice apples and pair with your favorite winter squash or potatoes. Toss with a few teaspoons of maple syrup and cinnamon. Scoop into individual aluminum packets and place on the grill, turning every 5 minutes or so until tender. Apples are a delicious accompaniment to pork!

Grilled Autumn Greens
Fall crops produce delicious tender greens like bok choy, broccoli rabe, swiss chard and more. Although it might seem unconventional, grilling dark green leafy vegetables can add a smoky flavor that is as delicious as it is nutritious. Simply brush with olive oil, grill and top with your favorite seasonings. Grilled greens are great side dishes for any meal.

Did you know?
A 2009 study conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) shows that 82 percent of all U.S. households own a grill. While grilling is the most popular during summer months, 56 percent report using their grills year round. So don’t pack that grill away, bring it back for deliciously grilled meals all year long!