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Thanksgiving Grilling: An Unconventional Approach

As the season of thanks approaches, we're here to shake up your traditional Thanksgiving feast with a sizzling twist - it's time to trade in the oven mitts for BBQ tongs and embark on a culinary adventure like never before. Welcome to the world of Thanksgiving Grilling: An Unconventional Approach!


We're flipping the script on tradition, turning up the heat, and embracing the spirit of gratitude with a smokin' celebration that's anything but ordinary. In this blog article, we're diving headfirst into the world of Thanksgiving grilling, where the rules are made to be broken, and the flavors are as bold as your grandma's famous cranberry sauce.


From flame-kissed turkeys that redefine moistness to sides that take a dip in the smoky deep-end, we've got your ticket to a Thanksgiving feast that's as unforgettable as that embarrassing family story that resurfaces every year! From appetizers to desserts, we're igniting a flavor revolution that will leave your guests wondering why they ever settled for a simple roasted bird.


The Main Event: Grilled Turkey


Discover the simplicity of creating the most delectable Grilled Turkey with this straightforward, step-by-step tutorial. Unleash incredible flavors with ease, freeing up your oven and leaving your guests impressed!

Best Grilled Turkey, cranberry sauce, pie
Image Source: The Wooden Skillet


Perfect for pellet grills or electric smokers, this recipe eliminates the need for brining and minimizes added fat. A dry rub spice blend, including garlic powder, cayenne, paprika, thyme, and Old Bay, imparts exceptional flavor. The outcome is a succulent turkey with a delightful combination of tender meat and a superbly crispy skin, delivering the best of both worlds.

Best Dry Rub Smoked Turkey on Grill
Image Source: The Typical Mom Blog

Smoked Apple Cider Turkey stands out as a superb addition to your Thanksgiving feast, boasting unparalleled tenderness, juiciness, and flavor. A brief soak in a saltwater brine guarantees the turkey remains succulent during the smoking process, while the infusion of apple cider in the marinade enhances its taste to perfection.

Smoked Juicy Apple Cider Turkey
Image Source:: Out Grilling

This cooking method focuses solely on the turkey breast, offering the choice of optional brining and a flavorful spice slather, mirroring the preparation for a whole bird. Ideal for intimate gatherings or for those who prefer white meat, it provides a chance to savor the classic turkey taste without the need for dark meat.

Grilled Turkey Breast
Image Source: Two Kooks In The Kitchen

 

Alternative Thanksgiving Mains

Not a fan of turkey? Perhaps you find yourself partaking in numerous Thanksgiving gatherings annually (with so much family to embrace and be grateful for!) and crave a break from the traditional turkey feast. No problem—we've got you covered!


If you're considering ditching the turkey, why not opt for the epitome of celebratory cuisine? These succulent lobster tails, effortlessly prepared on your grill, are luxuriously flavorful, enhanced by a touch of lemon garlic butter. Absolutely heavenly!

Grilled Lobster Tail
Image Source: Wholesome Yum

Spatchcocking proves to be an excellent method to achieve uniform cooking of your chicken, resulting in juicy meat and crispy skin, all achieved in a shorter time. Discover numerous helpful tips for seasoning a deliciously flavorful bird, perfect for intimate Thanksgiving gatherings.

Grilled Spatchcock Chicken
Image Source: Grilling Smoking Living

Certainly the quintessential centerpiece for the holiday season (apart from the classic Thanksgiving turkey!). If you're seeking an alternative to turkey, consider giving this a try. This prime rib roast is effortlessly prepared with a straightforward garlic rub and detailed instructions, promising a succulent and tender melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Grilled Prime Rib
Image Source: Miss In The Kitchen

 

Grilled Sides and Salads

While you're getting the grill ready for the centerpiece of your holiday feast, consider whipping up some side dishes alongside—it's simple and enjoyable!


This uncomplicated Grilled Asparagus recipe is both effortless and bursting with flavor! The spears achieve a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness as they cook on foil, accompanied by a quick lemon-garlic "marinade" sauce. A delightful sprinkle of Parmesan adds the ideal final flourish. This grilled side dish complements nearly any main course seamlessly!

Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan, Lemon, and Garlic
Image Source: Two Healthy Kitchens


Delight in delectable bites of grilled Halloumi nestled amidst a cornucopia of seasoned vegetables. Feel free to customize the vegetable selection to complement the rest of your Thanksgiving spread.

Veggie Kabobs with Halloumi
Image Source: Nourish Plate

In this speedy Thanksgiving side, impeccably grilled zucchini is adorned with a luscious balsamic glaze, sprinkled with fresh basil, and topped with creamy, savory feta cheese. A light, effortless, nutritious, and delightful treat!

Grilled Zucchini with Balsamic Glaze, Basil, & Feta
Image Source: Feasting Not Fasting

A delightful variation of a Thanksgiving favorite! This inventive recipe involves a triple grilling process: first, the jalapeño is grilled to enhance its flavor; next, the cornbread is cooked directly on the grill; and finally, individual slices of cornbread are grilled once more to achieve enticing "grill marks."

Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Image Source: Drug Store Divas

 

Grilled Dessert Ideas

Don't overlook the spectacular conclusion to your feast! Conclude the day on an impressive note by presenting a grilled dessert to delight your guests, adding a final touch of "WOW" factor!


Infusing a captivating twist into this traditional Thanksgiving treat involves grilling the entire recipe. Begin by smoking ginger snap cookies using a convenient shortcut method, followed by placing the entire pie on the grill for a unique "baking" experience.

Grilled Pumpkin Pie with Smoked Ginger Snap Crust
Image Source: Boulder Locavore

Similar to a disassembled apple pie! The apples are prepared in a foil packet with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, creating a flavor reminiscent of apple pie. They're particularly delightful when served with a sprinkle of granola and a dollop of whipped cream or frozen yogurt!

Grilled Apples
Image Source: Slender Kitchen


Celebrate the season's essence with the invigorating zest of oranges and the delightful bursts of sweet-tart pomegranate. While you have the option to broil this recipe, you can also toast the cake on the grill for a delicious twist.

Angel Food Cake with Vanilla-Honey Oranges
Image Source: Two Healthy Kitchens

This Thanksgiving let's turn up the heat and give thanks for the sizzle, the smoke, and the joy that comes from breaking free from the ordinary. Thanksgiving Grilling: An Unconventional Approach is about to make your holiday one for the books!







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