How to Throw an Italian-Inspired BBQ That’ll Make You Look Like a Proper Don
Right then, forget the same old dry burgers and charred bangers – this summer, it’s time to level up your BBQ game with a bit of la dolce vita. We’re talking proper Italian-style grilling – or as they call it, the grigliata. Think less slop-on sauce and mystery meat, more fresh Mediterranean flavours, proper ingredients, and food that actually makes you feel like a grown-up.
Picture this: juicy grilled meats, smoky veg, fresh herbs, glugs of olive oil, and a few bottles of crisp Italian plonk – all served up al fresco while you soak up the sun in your back garden like some sort of South London Sicilian. It’s classy, it’s easy, and it’ll impress the pants off anyone you invite over.
Top Italian BBQ Tips from Someone Who Actually Knows What They’re Doing
Roberta d’Elia – Head Chef at Pasta Evangelists (that posh pasta lot who actually know their stuff) – reckons this is what you need on the grill this summer:
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Spiedini (That’s Italian for Skewers, Mate)
Skewers are an Italian BBQ classic. Load up little chunks of chicken, pork, lamb or beef with cherry tomatoes, peppers and onions. Properly marinate them beforehand (don’t be lazy), and chuck on a few bits of rosemary or a bit of cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Quick to cook, easy to eat, and they look like you made an effort. Winner.
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Contorni – Aka Fancy Sides
“Contorni” just means sides, but they’re a bit more stylish than soggy coleslaw or your nan’s potato salad. Grill up some courgettes, asparagus or aubergines and drizzle with a top-notch Italian olive oil (not the supermarket engine oil you usually buy). A bit of burrata, some olives, and a few slices of cured meat will keep everyone busy while you pretend you know what you’re doing at the BBQ.
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Pasta Salad That Doesn’t Taste Like Packed Lunch
Don’t knock it – a proper pasta salad is an Italian BBQ essential. Use orzo or short pasta and chuck in some grilled veg, lemon juice, fresh herbs and a splash of oil. Job done. It’s fresh, light and ideal for hot weather when you don’t fancy sweating through a plate of mash.
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Wines That’ll Make You Look Cultured (Even If You’re Not)
You don’t need to be a sommelier to pick a decent bottle for an Italian BBQ. Go for a light white – Pinot Grigio, Prosecco, or Soave if you’re trying to sound fancy. Fruity, crisp and perfect with whatever you’ve just incinerated on the grill.
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So there you have it – turn your average garden BBQ into a proper Italian-inspired feast without even needing a passport. It’s fresh, stylish and dead easy. All you need now is some sunshine… and a mate who actually knows how to light a BBQ properly.