Grilled Cocktails To Elevate Your BBQ Party

You’re preparing for an unforgettable BBQ party, and what better way to elevate your gathering than with grilled cocktails? Yes, that’s right! Grilled cocktails are the latest trend to add a unique twist to your outdoor festivities. Imagine sipping on a perfectly charred pineapple margarita or a smoky watermelon mojito while you enjoy the sizzle of the grill. These innovative concoctions not only combine the refreshing flavors of your favorite drinks, but they also incorporate the smoky essence of grilling. Get ready to amaze your guests with these mouthwatering grilled cocktails that will take your BBQ party to a whole new level.

Choosing the Right Cocktail for Your BBQ

When planning a BBQ party, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right cocktail to serve. A well-chosen cocktail can elevate the flavors of your barbecue and enhance the overall experience for your guests. So, how do you go about selecting the perfect cocktail? Here are a few things to consider:

Consider the Flavors

First and foremost, consider the flavors that will be present in your BBQ dishes. Are you planning to serve smoky and savory dishes, or are you leaning towards lighter and refreshing flavors? The cocktail you choose should complement the flavors of your food. For example, if you’re serving grilled seafood, a citrusy cocktail like a margarita or a mojito would pair beautifully. On the other hand, if you’re serving rich and hearty BBQ meats, a bold and robust cocktail like a spicy margarita might be the way to go.

Think About the Occasion

Another factor to consider is the occasion itself. Is it a casual backyard BBQ with friends, or a more formal gathering? The ambiance and overall vibe of your event should influence your cocktail choice. For a laid-back barbecue, you could opt for a fun and fruity cocktail like a piña colada or a bellini. If you’re hosting a more sophisticated affair, a classy and elegant cocktail like a grilled citrus sangria would be a great choice.

Consider Your Guests’ Preferences

Lastly, it’s important to consider the preferences of your guests. Are they adventurous cocktail enthusiasts or do they prefer classic and familiar flavors? If you’re unsure, it’s always a safe bet to offer a variety of cocktail options to cater to different tastes. You could set up a DIY cocktail station where guests can create their own personalized drinks. This not only adds an interactive element to your BBQ party but also ensures that everyone can enjoy a cocktail that suits their preferences.

Preparation Tips for Grilled Cocktails

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect cocktail for your BBQ, it’s time to get prepared. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your grilled cocktails turn out perfect:

Gather the Ingredients

The first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients for your cocktails. Take inventory of your liquor cabinet and make sure you have everything you need. Don’t forget to stock up on fresh fruits, herbs, and any other special ingredients specific to your chosen cocktails. It’s always a good idea to have some extra ingredients on hand in case you need to make adjustments or accommodate any last-minute requests from your guests.

Prepare the Grilling Equipment

Next, it’s important to prepare your grilling equipment for the cocktail-making process. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure you have enough charcoal and that your grill is clean and ready to be fired up. For gas grills, check that your propane tank is full and that all the burners are working properly. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of long-handled tongs and a grilling basket on hand for easier handling of the ingredients.

Clean the Fruits and Herbs

Before you start grilling, make sure to clean and prepare the fruits and herbs that will be used in your cocktails. Wash the fruits thoroughly under running water and gently pat them dry. For herbs, remove any wilted leaves and give them a quick rinse. It’s important to have fresh and clean ingredients to ensure that your grilled cocktails have a bright and vibrant flavor.

Grilling Techniques for Cocktails

Grilling cocktails adds a unique and smoky twist to their flavors. Here are a few grilling techniques you can use to achieve delicious grilled cocktails:

Direct Grilling Method

One of the simplest grilling techniques is the direct method. This involves cooking the fruits directly over the heat source, whether it’s a gas or charcoal grill. The direct heat will caramelize the natural sugars in the fruits, enhancing their sweetness. It’s important to monitor the fruits closely and flip them occasionally to prevent burning. This method works best for denser fruits like pineapples and peaches.

Indirect Grilling Method

The indirect grilling method involves cooking the fruits using indirect heat. This is achieved by placing the fruits on the grill grates away from the heat source. The grill lid should be closed to create a convection oven effect, allowing the fruits to cook evenly. This method is ideal for softer fruits like watermelons and citrus fruits. The indirect heat will gently warm the fruits, releasing their juices and imparting a subtle smoky flavor.

Using Grilling Baskets

Grilling baskets are a handy tool when it comes to grilling smaller ingredients like berries or herbs. Simply place the ingredients in the basket and secure it tightly. This allows you to cook the fruits and herbs without the risk of them falling through the grill grates. Grilling baskets also make it easier to turn the ingredients, ensuring even cooking and charring.

Skewering the Ingredients

Another grilling technique is skewering the ingredients. This works particularly well for cocktail garnishes like fruit slices or herb sprigs. Skewering the ingredients not only makes them easier to handle on the grill but also adds a visually appealing touch to your grilled cocktails. Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Thread the fruits or herbs onto the skewers and grill them until they’re lightly charred and fragrant.

Grilled Margarita

One of the most iconic cocktails, the margarita, can be taken to a whole new level with a touch of grilling. Here’s how you can make a delicious grilled margarita:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 ounce grilled pineapple juice
• 1/2 ounce triple sec
• Grilled pineapple slice, for garnish
• Lime wedge, for garnish
• Coarse salt, for rimming the glass

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place pineapple slices directly on the grill grates and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
3. Remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. Cut one of the pineapple slices into chunks and place them in a blender. Blend until smooth to make grilled pineapple juice.
5. Rim a glass with coarse salt by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into a plate of salt.
6. In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, grilled pineapple juice, and triple sec. Shake well to combine.
7. Fill the salt-rimmed glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
8. Garnish with a grilled pineapple slice and a lime wedge.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled margarita pairs perfectly with grilled seafood dishes like shrimp skewers or fish tacos. The smoky sweetness from the grilled pineapple complements the fresh and tangy flavors of the margarita, creating a harmonious combination that will delight your taste buds.

Grilled Watermelon Mojito

If you’re looking for a refreshing and summery cocktail, the grilled watermelon mojito is an excellent choice. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 ounce grilled watermelon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Grilled watermelon wedge, for garnish
• Mint sprig, for garnish

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the watermelon into slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Place the watermelon slices directly on the grill grates and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
4. Remove the watermelon slices from the grill and let them cool slightly.
5. Cut one of the grilled watermelon slices into chunks and place them in a blender. Blend until smooth to make grilled watermelon juice.
6. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar to release their flavors.
7. Add the rum, lime juice, and grilled watermelon juice to the shaker. Shake well to combine.
8. Fill a glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
9. Top with club soda and gently stir.
10. Garnish with a grilled watermelon wedge and a mint sprig.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled watermelon mojito is a fantastic choice for a hot summer day. Its refreshing flavors and subtle smokiness make it the perfect accompaniment to grilled burgers or BBQ chicken. The combination of sweet watermelon, tangy lime, and aromatic mint creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Grilled Pineapple Piña Colada

Take your piña colada to the next level by grilling the pineapple for a tropical twist. Here’s how you can make a grilled pineapple piña colada:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces white rum
• 2 ounces coconut cream
• 2 ounces grilled pineapple juice
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• Grilled pineapple slice, for garnish
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the pineapple into slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill grates and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
4. Remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them cool slightly.
5. Cut one of the grilled pineapple slices into chunks and place them in a blender. Blend until smooth to make grilled pineapple juice.
6. In a blender, combine the rum, coconut cream, grilled pineapple juice, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. Fill a glass with ice and pour the piña colada mixture into the glass.
8. Garnish with a grilled pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled pineapple piña colada is a tropical delight that pairs perfectly with grilled Hawaiian-style meats like teriyaki chicken or glazed ribs. The smoky sweetness from the grilled pineapple adds a unique depth of flavor to the creamy and coconutty piña colada, transporting you to a beachside paradise with every sip.

Grilled Peach Bellini

The classic Italian cocktail gets a smoky twist with grilled peaches. Here’s how you can make a grilled peach bellini:

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 bottle chilled prosecco

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits.
3. Brush the cut side of each peach half with honey.
4. Place the peaches cut side down on the grill grates and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches are softened.
5. Remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly.
6. Cut the grilled peaches into chunks and place them in a blender. Blend until smooth to make grilled peach puree.
7. Fill a champagne flute halfway with chilled prosecco.
8. Add a spoonful of grilled peach puree to the glass.
9. Gently stir to combine.
10. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled peach bellini is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for brunch or a sophisticated BBQ gathering. Its delicate peach flavor and effervescence from the prosecco make it a refreshing and elegant choice. Serve the bellinis alongside grilled brunch dishes like eggs Benedict or smoked salmon for a truly memorable dining experience.

Grilled Citrus Sangria

Elevate your sangria game by grilling citrus fruits for a smoky and aromatic twist. Here’s how you can make grilled citrus sangria:

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup honey
• Grilled citrus slices (oranges, lemons, and limes), for garnish
• Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the oranges, lemons, and limes into thick slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Place the citrus slices directly on the grill grates and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
4. Remove the citrus slices from the grill and let them cool slightly.
5. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, brandy, and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
6. Add the grilled citrus slices to the pitcher and gently muddle them with a wooden spoon to release their flavors.
7. Refrigerate the sangria for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled, garnished with grilled citrus slices and fresh mint sprigs.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled citrus sangria is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that is perfect for outdoor gatherings and BBQ parties. Its fruity and citrusy flavors pair well with a variety of grilled dishes, from juicy steaks to grilled vegetables. Serve the sangria in a large punch bowl or a beverage dispenser with plenty of ice, allowing your guests to help themselves to the delicious and refreshing libation.

Grilled Berry Mojito

The classic mojito gets a fruity and smoky twist with grilled berries. Here’s how you can make a grilled berry mojito:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• Handful of grilled berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
• Club soda
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Place the berries in a grilling basket and grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the berries are slightly softened and have grill marks.
3. Remove the grilling basket from the grill and let the berries cool slightly.
4. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the grilled berries with the lime juice and simple syrup to release their flavors.
5. Add the rum to the shaker and shake well to combine.
6. Fill a glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
7. Top with club soda and gently stir.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a lime wedge.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled berry mojito is a fruity and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for picnics and outdoor BBQ parties. The combination of juicy grilled berries, zesty lime, and aromatic mint creates a truly refreshing and summery drink. Serve the mojitos alongside a spread of grilled appetizers like skewered shrimp or bruschetta for a delightful and well-rounded culinary experience.

Grilled Spicy Margarita

For those who enjoy a kick of heat in their cocktails, the grilled spicy margarita is the way to go. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 ounce grilled jalapeño syrup
• Salt and chili powder, for rimming the glass
• Grilled jalapeño slice, for garnish
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
3. Place the jalapeño halves directly on the grill grates and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until charred and softened.
4. Remove the jalapeño halves from the grill and let them cool slightly.
5. In a small saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water. Add the grilled jalapeño halves to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the syrup has slightly thickened.
7. Strain the syrup to remove any solids and let it cool completely.
8. Rim a glass with a mixture of salt and chili powder by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into the mixture.
9. In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, and grilled jalapeño syrup. Shake well to combine.
10. Fill the salt-rimmed glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
11. Garnish with a grilled jalapeño slice and a lime wedge.

Serving Suggestions

The grilled spicy margarita is a bold and fiery cocktail that pairs well with spicy grilled dishes like carne asada or grilled shrimp with a chili-lime marinade. The smoky heat from the grilled jalapeños adds a distinct and complex flavor profile to the classic margarita, creating a drink that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

In conclusion, grilled cocktails are a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ party and impress your guests with unique flavors. Whether you choose to grill fruits, herbs, or add a smoky twist to classic cocktail recipes, the possibilities are endless. By carefully considering the flavors, occasion, and preferences of your guests, you can choose the perfect cocktail to complement your BBQ dishes. So fire up the grill, gather the ingredients, and get ready to take your BBQ party to the next level with these delicious grilled cocktails. Cheers!