Many traditional Italian meals are created on a grill. Simplicity is the key to capturing authentic flavors. Follow these tips and your dinner guests will feel like they’ve been transported to the Italian countryside.
Before you Light the Grill
Keep your Marinade Simple. Use traditional Italian ingredients. For red meat, try red wine, olive oil, fennel, salt, pepper. For chicken, combine lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper.
Pick Veggies with Pizzazz. From red peppers to mushrooms to yellow squash, Italians grill all kinds of vegetables. Choose the veggies that best compliment your meal. And don’t forget to add some for color, too!
Fire it up!
Smell the Wood Burning. If you want an authentic Italian barbecue, use only wood burned down to the coals or wood charcoal to heat your grill. You’ll infuse your meats and vegetables with an irresistible Italian flavor charcoal briquettes or gas heat can’t match.
Manage your Coals. If you’re cooking only meats, spread out your coals to create a moderately hot grill. The cooking time will be slower and the flavor richer. Sear your veggies over the hottest area of your grill.
Get Grillin’!
Basic Basting. Want to keep your food tender and flavorful? Baste your meats and vegetables as they cook.
Make Gravy. If you’re cooking on a spit, you can catch the drippings in a pan and whip up a tasty gravy or use them to baste.
Wait to Turn. Resist the temptation to turn your meats often. Wait until the meat becomes slightly brown or charred before flipping. Use your instinct and love of good food to guide you!
Above all, enjoy your delicious barbecue meal with friends and family. Buon appetito!