Rustic Italian Grilling!!

Unleash your inner chef with some fun Rustic Italian Grilled Delights

We live in the south and not only do we average ‘feels like’ high 90’s and 100’s on most summer days but we also have horrible humidity.  So the last thing g we want to do at the end of a work day is to heat up our kitchen.  So what do we do - we grill!!   This is our time to get outside and grab a cool drink and fire up the grill and indulge in some mouthwatering rustic Italian flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard get-together or simply craving a taste of Italy, these fun items will bring the essence of rustic Italian cuisine to your grill. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your grilling game with these delicious ideas!

1. Grilled Polenta with Roasted Tomatoes and Basil

Polenta, a traditional Italian staple that you can transform into a delightful grilled treat. (If you don’t like or want Polenta, you can easily substitute a couscous.) Start by cooking polenta until it’s thick and creamy. Let it cool and firm up before slicing into squares or rounds. Grill the polenta until it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Top with roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of flavors.

2. Tuscan-Style Grilled Chicken

Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. I like to split larger chicken breasts down to 1/2 inch thick.  This tastes better is you can let the flavors meld for a few hours before grilling. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and juicy. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, seasoned with good olive oil and Italian herbs.

3. Grilled Pizza with Prosciutto and Arugula

Who says pizza is just for the oven? Grilled pizza is one of our all-time favorites and you don’t always have to have a pizza oven or oven to make pizza.  Grilling pizza is a game-changer. Roll out your pizza dough and brush it with olive oil. Grill one side until it’s charred, then flip and add your toppings. For a rustic Italian touch, use a light tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, thin slices of prosciutto, and a handful of arugula. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with some good sea salt.

4. Grilled Artichokes with Lemon-Garlic Aioli

Artichokes are a classic Italian vegetable that really shine on the grill. Cut the artichokes in half and remove the choke. Boil them for a few minutes so that you soften them up then brush with olive oil and grill until they have beautiful grill marks. Serve with a homemade lemon-garlic aioli for a zesty dipping sauce.

5. Grilled Sausage and Peppers

This Italian street food favorite is perfect for the grill. Choose a variety of Italian sausages and grill them alongside colorful bell peppers and onions. This is a great way to use the bell peppers from your garden. The combination of smoky sausages and sweet, charred peppers is irresistible. Serve on a toasted bun or over a bed of polenta for a hearty meal.

6. Grilled Figs Wrapped in Prosciutto

For a delightful appetizer or dessert, try grilling figs wrapped in prosciutto. The sweetness of the figs pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto. I usually only wrap the figs one time to prevent the excessive saltiness.  Grill until the prosciutto is crispy and the figs are caramelized. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped pistachios if you want to be really fancy!! 

7. Grilled Ciabatta with Olive Tapenade

Upgrade your bread game with grilled ciabatta. Slice the ciabatta loaf and brush with olive oil. Grill until it’s crispy and has a slight char. Spread a generous layer of olive tapenade, made with black olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. This rustic Italian starter is sure to be a hit.

8. Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

These are so tasty and always amazing for every flavor profile!! These healthy vegetable skewers use a mix of cherry tomatoes, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, red onions, and mushrooms. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs before grilling. Finish with a balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet flavor that really compliments the smoky vegetables.

9. Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone and Honey

End your Italian grill feast on a sweet note with grilled peaches. Halve and pit the peaches, then grill until they are tender and slightly charred. Top with a dollop of creamy mascarpone cheese and a drizzle of honey. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing dessert.

Grilling the Italian way brings a rustic charm and a burst of flavor to your meals. From savory mains to sweet treats, these grilled items will transport you and your guests to the heart of Italy. So, gather your friends and family, light up the grill, and enjoy these delightful rustic Italian creations!

Buon Appetito!

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