Kick off grilling season with these recipes

Malena Whetro

It may not officially be football season yet, but spring is in full bloom and many people are ready to kick off the grilling season. Get your preseason pregame on by sampling these three delicious, alcohol-optional recipes.

Beer burgers

This recipe from allrecipes.com caters to college students who have champagne taste on a beer budget, literally. Beer burgers are not only cost effective, but they are sure to be a hit at your next grillout.

What you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup beer

Directions:

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Mix the ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix in the beer until it’s absorbed by the meat mixture, then form into patties. Cook on the preheated grill until the burgers are cooked to your desired degree of doneness, about 5 minutes per side for well done. Don’t forget the condiments.

Tequila shrimp

Marthastewart.com provided this simple, mouth-watering recipe. For a little more pocket change, treat your taste buds to some savory seafood. Add a side of fresh vegetables from the local farmer’s market and throw them on the grill.

What you’ll need:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup silver or white tequila
  • 1/4 cup lime juice 
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • Salt and ground pepper
  • Assorted vegetables and skewers are optional

Directions:

Mix together shrimp, tequila, lime juice and orange juice. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and let refrigerate for about 20 minutes. Throw the shrimp on the grill for about 4 to 6 minutes on medium-high, or until completely cooked.

Margarita chicken

Perfect for an outdoor fiesta-themed party, this margarita chicken recipe from food.com is a great way to entertain you and your roommates. Pair this recipe with some grilled fruit, such as pineapple, for the best combination.

What you’ll need:

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup margarita mix
  • 1/3 cup tequila
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • black pepper, season to taste

Directions:

Marinate chicken breasts in margarita mix and tequila for 2 hours. Drain and season chicken breasts with black pepper to taste. Grill approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side.