Who says you need a crowd to enjoy the grill? Whether it's a cozy date night or a casual hangout with your best friend, grilling for two can be just as delicious and satisfying. There's something magical about the aroma of food cooking over an open flame, especially when shared with a loved one. Whether it's a special occasion or just a desire for a delightful meal together, grilling for two can turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary one.
If you're craving a cozy and intimate dinner for two, read on. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best things to grill on charcoal for two, from succulent meats to flavorful vegetables. Read on to discover mouthwatering recipes perfect for any occasion, ensuring everyone enjoys the flavors of the grill.
Our Favorite Grilled Dinner Ideas
Discover our collection of mouthwatering recipes that are sure to elevate your grilling game. From juicy steaks to succulent seafood and vibrant vegetables, we’ve chosen the following recipes because they deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you're planning a romantic date night or a casual get-together with your best friend, these grilled dishes are guaranteed to impress. Trust us, you’ll both be coming back for seconds.
Grilled Chicken: A Juicy Delight
No list of grilling ideas for two would be complete without a classic grilled chicken recipe. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for extra juicy results. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, garlic, and brown sugar for a burst of flavor. As the coals heat up, grill the chicken until cooked through and charred on the outside. Serve with a side of pineapple salsa for a sweet and tangy accompaniment that perfectly complements the smoky taste of the chicken.
Grilled Flank Steak: Tender and Flavorful
For a main dish that's sure to impress, try grilled flank steak. Marinate the steak in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs for a minimum of one hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Once the coals are ready, grill the steak to your desired level of doneness, then let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain. Pair with grilled yellow summer squash and a homemade dipping sauce for a meal that's both elegant and satisfying.
Baby Back Ribs: Back to the Basics
Mmmm…two entire racks of succulent fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it. We love this recipe by Grilla Grills because it guarantees that every bite is tender and savory. You can opt to glaze your ribs or serve them with a delightful dipping sauce.Â
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs: A Seafood Sensation
Elevate your grilling game with succulent grilled shrimp kabobs. Thread jumbo shrimp onto skewers along with chunks of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Brush the kabobs with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before placing them on the grill. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, then serve with a side of black bean and corn salad for a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for a romantic dinner for two.
Grilled Salmon with Fresh Herb Marinade: A Taste of Summer
For a lighter grilled dinner idea that's still packed with flavor, try grilled salmon with a fresh herb marinade. Combine chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, and fresh cilantro, with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Marinate the salmon filets for at least 30 minutes before grilling over charcoal until flaky and tender. Serve with a side dish of grilled asparagus and roasted potatoes for a complete and delicious meal that celebrates the flavors of summer.
Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin: A Tender TreatÂ
What's the secret behind the enchanting pairing of pork and apples? It's a question worth contemplating as you savor every bite of your apple cider-injected pork tenderloin. With this apple cider injection recipe, your pork tenderloin transforms from good to extraordinary in mere minutes. Ensure you have a quality meat injector syringe at the ready to ensure the flavor infusion penetrates deeply into the meat.
Gooey Cheese-Stuffed Burgers: A Decadent Treat
Take your burger game to the next level with gooey cheese-stuffed burgers. Mix ground beef with your favorite seasonings, then form into patties. Place a cube of gooey cheese in the center of each patty before sealing the edges. Grill the burgers over charcoal until they're cooked to perfection, with the cheese melting inside. Serve on toasted buns with all the fixings, alongside grilled potato wedges for a satisfying and indulgent meal that's sure to please.
Vegetarian Grilling: Zesty Grilled Veggie Skewers
Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will love these zesty grilled veggie skewers. Thread skewers with an assortment of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Brush with a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasoning before grilling over charcoal until tender and slightly charred. Serve with a side of creamy hummus for dipping, creating a meal that's both satisfying and full of flavor.