The nights are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and the back garden is growing in overdrive - it’s officially the summer season. These long, lazy evenings and slower paces call for beloved gatherings with friends and family to share food, drinks, and laughter on the back deck. Of course, this means it’s time to bust out the tried and true grill that’s been on rest since last summer.
Now let’s think of what’s actually simmering above your charcoal this summer. Of course, you’ve got your traditional hot dogs over here, hamburgers there. You know, the usual. It’s easy to run to the grocery store and not think twice about it. But this summer, what if we spiced things up? With all the new nutritional data coming out about the importance of a varied diet and, let’s be real, the health risks of ultra-processed meats, it’s high time we start to think about our other options. After all, you didn’t invest in that grill to just sling brats, did you?
Steaks On The Grill
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a classic cheeseburger or a hot dog on a warm summer day. But if you are ready to try something new when you are firing up your grill, let this be a sign to think beyond the classics once in a while.
This summer, whenever you’re craving the smell of a sizzling grill, consider options like 100% Grass-Fed Filet Mignon or Rib-eye, both of which are great preservative-free and protein-rich options that pair incredibly well with classic summertime sides like corn and taters. We tend to think of cooking steaks in a cast-iron or non-stick skillet on the stovetop, however grilling steaks can be a more communal and less-mess alternative to the stove-top. And the best part about steak is that, in reality, you don’t need many “seasonings” besides some quality salt and pepper to get that robust and mouth-filling flavor that we all know and love.
Grilled Chicken
For a lighter option during the hot summer months, consider choosing a Whole Chicken as a healthy and affordable choice to feed your entire family for several days. To add some flair, you can try grilling beer-infused chicken, using updated recipes that only involve the beer itself, eliminating any concerns about chemicals from the beer can. These recipes can transform a plain chicken into a flavorful delight, making your gathering the topic of conversation among your friends - at least until your next impressive grilling creation!
Seafood
But grills are also known for their versatility, so don’t be afraid to throw delectable and Omega-3 rich seafood on the grill like Faroe Island Salmon Burgers or, for a little “shrimp on the barbie” kick, Wild Caught Gulf Shrimp that hold all the flavor and protein without the saturated fats of highly processed meats. Of course, many of us don’t want the hassle of skinning the fish or deveining shrimp, so it’s important to look out for brands that do the dirty work for you while adhering to strict environmentally-friendly codes.
Think Beyond The Burgers and Dogs For Summertime Grilling
Really, there’s no end to the grilling possibilities this summer. From juicy poultry to hearty and elegant steaks, the protein options that welcome grill marks and charcoal flavor are endless.
When selecting your protein, considering high-quality options that are free from antibiotics or hormones can assist in avoiding certain concerns that many individuals aim to avoid. From the American Heartland to the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic, we’ve traveled the world to find the best partners for each of our different sourcing needs. We seek out farming and fishing families that span generations and hold a deep-rooted passion for their craft and a proven history of caring for their animals and their environment. Everything we source is certified antibiotic, steroid, and hormone free. All seafood is wild-caught or sustainably raised in the wild.
Opting for meats, chicken, and seafood that Rastelli’s offers (find more info here about the amazing selections) can help you feel confident knowing that your meat is sustainably sourced and it is free from any questionable additions. And with all of the options that we offer, it is simple to test out different protein options to find one that you love. And hopefully, you will be able to add a new protein choice into your hot dog and hamburger rotation this summertime and beyond. Because after all, variety is the spice of life!