Summer is on and the grill is out! During the summer evenings, cooking and eating outdoors becomes a real treat. The sun sets, the temperatures begin to drop, and you’re able to enjoy delicious, seasonal produce in a new, creative way.
When we think of grilling, we typically assume we’re cooking meat. However, vegetables and fruits can be completely transformed by a little char. Experience the enhanced flavors and natural sweetness that comes from summer produce when put on the grill.
If you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, don’t be shy about switching up your grilling routine to include stone fruits, heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and even lettuce! The recipe possibilities are limitless, but if you’re looking for a little inspiration to get you started, we’re sharing a few ideas.
Introducing, the ‘Summer Lovin’ Flat Bread.’
Flat breads are the perfect vessel to showcase the fresh ingredients available during this time of year. It’s a simple, easy, and delicious throw-together appetizer when the grill is out and you’ve got company coming over.
Below are two recipes with less than five ingredients that will impress your guests at your next barbecue:
Tomato Basil Flat Bread
Ingredients:
-whole wheat pita bread, 4 small discs
-1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
-handful fresh basil, sliced
-splash extra virgin olive oil
-sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
*For an added bonus, try to snag the herbs and tomatoes at your local farmer’s market. The sweetness of the tomatoes and fresh basil will be well worth it!
Directions:
In a small bowl, toss the tomatoes and basil with the olive oil, salt and pepper and set aside. Place the pita discs on the grill for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to toast. Top the pita discs with the tomato mixture, piled high, and continue to grill until just warm. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if using, and quarter the pitas with a pizza slicer. Serve immediately.
Truffle Radicchio Flat Bread
Ingredients:
-whole wheat pita bread, 4 small discs
-1/2 head of radicchio, sliced
-splash of truffle oil
-splash extra virgin olive oil
-sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
In a small bowl, toss the radicchio with the olive oil, truffle oil, salt and pepper and set aside. Place the pita discs on the grill for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to toast. Top the pita discs with the radicchio mixture, piled high (as it will wilt down), and continue to grill for about 7 minutes until just warm and slightly wilted. Sprinkle with addition sea salt to taste and quarter the pitas with a pizza slicer. Serve immediately.
At DEFINE foods, we recognize that like most things, too much of anything doesn’t necessarily make it great. Grilling is a fun way to change up your meals, but there are a few things to know about the potential concerns associated with it.
The unmistakable char of grilled foods is what lends to the smoky flavor and crispy texture. At DEFINE foods we are here to help raise awareness and provide healthful tips for cooking in ways that fuel you best. Always be aware that charred exteriors contain heterocyclic amines, or HCA, which has been classified as a carcinogen, a substance capable of causing cancer.
Luckily, you have total control of how much char goes on your food. Simply grilling on a lower heat, frequently flipping your food, and avoiding flare-ups can significantly lower the HCA risk associated with grilling. Another great and delicious way to reduce HCA levels is to marinate your food before putting it on the heat. However, make sure to use lighter marinades as the thick, sugary ones can actually promote charring. Experiment with creating your own by combining lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and your favorite dried herb!
Fourth of July is notoriously one of the biggest grilling days of the year and we know you’re looking forward to it! Try our tips to avoid the char, but most importantly, enjoy the opportunity to try out new recipes and cooking methods.
And know that next week you can detox any lingering toxins with us and our Meal Cleanse Programs.