Now that summer is here, the time has once again arrived to break out the tongs and seasoning and start grilling in the backyard. We here at your local Johnston City manufactured and modular home provider know that backyard barbeques are an important part of many families’ traditions and get-togethers, so we have provided a few healthy and delicious recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next party. Enjoy!

Chicken Kabobs

This is the perfect meal for someone looking for a nice combination of meat and vegetables. Here is what you will need:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cubed
  • 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 2 in. pieces
  • 1 onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 2 in. pieces
  • 1 cup barbeque sauce
  • wooden skewers

First off, preheat your grill for high heat. Thread the chicken, onion, and pepper pieces onto the skewers, alternating between each. Before placing them on the grill, lightly oil the grill grate. Place the kabobs on the grill and brush them with barbeque sauce. While turning and brushing frequently, cook for 15 minutes or until chicken juices run clear.

Homemade Black Bean Veggie Burgers

A vegetarian delight that is both easy and delicious. Ingredients are:

  • 1 (16 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ green bell pepper, cut into 2 in. pieces
  • ½ onion, cut into wedges
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tbsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. Thai chili sauce or hot sauce
  • ½ cup bread crumbs

Preheat your grill for high heat, and lightly oil a sheet of aluminum foil. In a medium bowl, mash the black beans until they are thick and pasty. Using a food processor, finely mince the bell pepper, onion, and garlic together, and then combine with the black beans. In a small bowl, stir together the egg, chili powder, cumin, and chili sauce or hot sauce, and then combine with the black bean mixture. Stir thoroughly while adding in the bread crumbs until the mixture is sticky and holds itself together. Crate four patties once you finish mixing. Place the patties on the foil and grill for about 8 minutes on each side.

Grilled Fish Tacos With Chipotle-Lime Dressing

Tangy and flavorful, this specialty dish is a cookout delicacy. You will need:

  • Marinade:
    • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
    • 2 tbsp. distilled white vinegar
    • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
    • 2 tsp. lime zest
    • 1½ tsp. honey
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • ½ tsp. cumin
    • ½ tsp. chili powder
    • 1 tsp. seafood seasoning
    • ½ tsp. ground black pepper
    • 1 tsp. hot pepper sauce
    • 1 lb. tilapia fillets, cut into chunks
  • Dressing:
    • 1 (8 oz.) container light sour cream
    • ½ cup adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
    • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
    • 2 tsp. lime zest
    • ¼ tsp. cumin
    • ¼ tsp. chili powder
    • ½ tsp. seafood seasoning
  • Toppings:
    • 1 (10 oz.) package tortillas
    • 3 tomatoes, seeded and diced
    • 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
    • 1 small head cabbage, cored and shredded
    • 2 limes, cut in wedges

First, begin making the marinade. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, lime zest, honey, garlic cumin, chili powder, seafood seasoning, black pepper, and hot sauce in a bowl until blended. Place the tilapia in a dish, and then pour the newly created marinade over the fish. Cover and refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours. Next, make the dressing by combining the sour cream and adobo sauce in a bowl. Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, cumin, chili powder, and seafood seasoning, and then cover and refrigerate until needed. Preheat your grill for high heat and lightly oil the grill grate. Remove the fish from the marinade, drain off any excess, and discard the marinade. Cook the pieces and turn as needed for about 9 minutes until they are easily flaked. Assemble your tacos as desired, adding whatever amount of toppings you or your party want.

Give Us A Call To Find A Home With The Perfect Backyard For Grilling!

At Brooks Village Green Homes, we can help you find just the house you are looking for with all the features you desire, including a great backyard for barbeques and grilling! Our trained professionals understand your needs and will guide you through the process of selecting one of our custom built homes. Please feel free to call us directly at 618-627-7095. One of our friendly staff members will help you with whatever you need. We look forward to hearing from you soon!