We are getting deep into grilling season, and some days we just want to diversify our menu options. Here’s a list of surprising things that you can cook on the grill. Not only does grilling give those beautiful grill marks to your food, but it imparts that charred flavour that is sought after and unmatched by any other cooking process. So, the next time you’re stumped about what to grill or want to surprise your guests with your culinary skills, try grilling up these items. You won’t be disappointed!

Pineapple

Grilled pineapple has been a mainstay of Brazilian churrascaria menus for eons and for those who’ve never had it, your life is about to be changed. The grilling somehow deepens the flavour of the pineapple and makes it sweeter. The smokiness is the perfect counter-balance, and if you want more pizazz, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving. It’s great on its own, served alongside ice cream or served as a side dish to accompany grilled steak.

Watermelon

Up the ante on a traditional watermelon feta salad by grilling the fruit before hand. Add some chopped mint and a drizzle of balsamic and you’re ready to serve up a hefty dose of summertime flavour. Serve this alongside grilled pork chops, cedar plank salmon or grilled sausages.

Ripe bananas

With ripe grilled bananas you’ll add some oomph to ice cream sundaes; be daring and serve on its own drizzled with good quality maple syrup and topped with crushed nuts (walnuts or almonds) and a sprinkle of sea salt. Yum!

Pizza

Grilled pizza is as easy as it is delicious! It also is an excellent dish that the kids can participate in making. Use home-made dough, and the flavour of grilled pizza is similar to that made in a wood-burning oven. Delish! Top with your cheddar, mozzarella, feta or goat’s cheese, grilled veggies, and your favourite meats.

Oysters

A quick blast of heat concentrates the oysters’ briny flavour, and with a schmear of garlic butter and a brunoise of Scotch bonnet pepper, this will become your signature dish in no time. Want to really jazz things up? Add diced cooked bacon, a few shakes of Private Label by Gregory Burrowes salmon seasoning, chopped parsley, and bread crumbs for a contemporary take on the classic Oysters Rockefeller.

Grilled cheese

Put the ‘grilled’ back in grilled cheese by making these sandwiches on an open flame. Make them heartier by adding shredded barbecue chicken, slices of ham, some sautéed shrimp, or a few slices of brisket or flank steak.

Avocados

Yes, avocados! Cut in half, brush with oil and grill for a flavour that is both unique and decadent. Finish with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of sea salt and eat right out of the skin; or used in salads; or mix with smoked salmon or marlin for a tasty appetiser.

Pound cake

Before adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream and macerated local blackberries, which can be found at Butcher Block, grill slices of pound cake to get an out-of-this-world toasty flavour and texture. You’ll be glad you did. Want something extra? Drizzle pound cake, blackberries and vanilla ice cream with Madeira or balsamic reduction before serving.