Summer Sizzle: Cooking with Oils for Picnics and BBQs

Are you ready to make your picnics and BBQs sizzle with flavour, all while keeping health in mind? As you gear up for outdoor grilling and dining under the sun, selecting the right oil for grill recipes becomes crucial. But why does choosing the appropriate grill oil matter? Whether it's for marinating, dressing, or cooking, the oil you use can significantly affect the taste, texture, and healthiness of your food. With a plethora of options available, how can you navigate the choices to ensure your barbecues are not only delicious but also mindful of your wellness? Let's dive into the world of oils suitable for summer cooking, focusing on those that enhance our grill and barbecue oil needs without compromising on health. 

 

BBQ Recipes And Grill Recipes For Picnic

Summer picnics are incomplete without the aroma of grilled delights filling the air. Here, we present a variety of grill and BBQ recipes perfect for your next outdoor feast. Each recipe is crafted to be heart-healthy when you choose oils like Saffola Gold, which maintains a good balance of MUFA and PUFA fatty acids, important for your well-being. 

 

1. Lime Grilled Corn

A summer classic, Lime Grilled Corn is zestful and easy to prepare. Here’s how to prepare it: 

Ingredients 

• Corn on the cob
• Lime juice
• Melted butter
• Chili powder
• Saffola Gold oil

Recipe 

• Brush your corn cobs with a mixture of lime juice, melted butter, and a hint of chilli powder.
• For grilling, use a brush to apply a light coating of Saffola Gold on the corn to prevent sticking, ensuring each cob is evenly roasted.
• Grill until the kernels are slightly charred, turning occasionally for an even cook.

The oil's antioxidant properties and vitamins contribute to a heart-healthy side dish. 

 

2. Grilled Paneer

Grilled Paneer is a must-try for those seeking a delightful protein-packed option. This dish is a great way to enjoy the benefits of dairy, combined with the heart-healthy aspects of the oil used. Here’s a simple grilled paneer recipe: 

Ingredients 

• Paneer, cut into thick slices
• Yoghurt
• Turmeric powder
• Garam masala
• Fresh coriander, chopped
• Oil for brushing (such as Saffola Active)
• Mint chutney (for serving)

Recipe 

• Start by marinating thick slices of paneer in a mixture of yoghurt, turmeric, garam masala, and fresh coriander.
• Before placing them on the grill, lightly brush each piece with Saffola Active to enhance the flavours and ensure it cooks evenly without drying out.
• Grill until golden brown, and serve with a side of mint chutney.

3. Grilled Chipotle Tofu

For a vegan twist, Grilled Chipotle Tofu packs a smoky punch. This dish offers a fusion of flavours while being mindful of health. 

Ingredients 

• Firm tofu, sliced
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (or chipotle powder)
• Lime juice
• Barbecue oil
• Coriander leaves (cilantro), for garnish

Recipe 

• Marinate slices of firm tofu in a chipotle-based marinade, adding a splash of lime for brightness.
• Before grilling, coat the tofu with a thin layer of barbecue oil, like Saffola Total—clinically proven to lower cholesterol—to keep the tofu moist and flavourful.
• Grill until each side is charred and crispy. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.

4. Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs

Innovative and delicious, Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs bring a playful element to your picnic. 

Ingredients 

• Cherry tomatoes
• Gnocchi (potato dumplings), boiled
• Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
• Saffola Tasty Oil

Recipe 

• Skewer cherry tomatoes and boiled gnocchi alternately onto kebab skewers.
• Drizzle the skewered tomatoes and gnocchi with a blend of Italian herbs and Saffola Tasty, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Grill the kebabs until the tomatoes are just bursting with flavour, and the gnocchi has a slight char.
• Serve hot and enjoy this innovative and delicious Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs at your picnic.

5. Grilled Veggie Kebabs

A colourful and healthy option, Grilled Veggie Kebabs include zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. This dish is a testament to how summer grilling can be both delightful and heart-healthy. 

Ingredients 

• Zucchini
• Bell peppers (assorted colors)
• Onions
• Mushrooms
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon zest
• Herbs (such as oregano, thyme, rosemary)
• Saffola Active Oil

Recipe 

• Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces and marinate in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
• Skewer marinated vegetables onto kebab sticks.
• Lightly brush with Saffola Active and grill until tender and slightly charred, turning occasionally.
• Enjoy it hot and crispy.

Easy Cooking Recipes For An Outing

When the sun is high and the breeze is inviting, picnics and BBQs become the season's highlights. Here are some easy-to-prepare recipes that not only delight the palate but also consider health, making use of grill oil and barbecue oil to bring out the best in each dish.

1. Chickpea Salad

A vibrant Chickpea Salad is both nutritious and filling, making it a perfect picnic starter. 

Ingredients 

• Cooked chickpeas
• Cucumbers, diced
• Tomatoes, diced
• Red onion, diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon juice
• Saffola Gold oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Recipe 

• Combine the cooked chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and chopped parsley in a large bowl.
• In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together lemon juice, Saffola Gold, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Serve the chickpea salad immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Onion and Cheese Rolls

Onion and Cheese Rolls are a scrumptious snack that's easy to make and carry. They're a great source of flavour and nutrition for any outing. 

Ingredients 

• Onions
• Saffola Total Oil
• Grated cheese
• Herbs (such as parsley, oregano, or basil)
• Seasoning (such as salt and pepper)
• Whole wheat tortillas

Recipe 

• Heat a bit of Saffola Total oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Sauté the onions in the pan until golden brown.
• Allow the sautéed onions to cool.
• Combine the cooled sautéed onions in a mixing bowl with grated cheese, herbs, and seasoning.
• Spread the onion and cheese mixture evenly onto whole wheat tortillas.
• Roll up the tortillas tightly.
• Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pieces.
• Serve and enjoy these savoury onion and cheese rolls as a tasty snack or appetiser.

3. Avocado and Veggie Banh Mi

For a refreshing take on these Vietnamese sandwiches, try the Avocado and Veggie Banh Mi. Here’s how to make this delectable sandwich: 

Ingredients 

• Baguette
• Avocado
• Carrots, pickled
• Cucumbers, thinly sliced
• Cilantro (coriander), chopped
• Soy sauce
• Saffola Tasty Oil for toasting
• Ketchup or mayonnaise (optional)

Recipe 

• Slice the baguette horizontally and toast it with oil or butter until golden brown.
• Mash the avocado and spread it generously onto one side of the toasted baguette.
• Layer the mashed avocado with pickled carrots, thinly sliced cucumbers, and chopped cilantro.
• Drizzle a bit of soy sauce over the vegetable layers for an extra flavour kick.
• Optionally, add ketchup or mayonnaise on the other side of the toasted baguette.
• Close the sandwich by placing the other half of the baguette on top.
• Serve the Avocado and Veggie Banh Mi hot and enjoy this refreshing take on the classic Vietnamese sandwich.

4. Vegan Coleslaw

A picnic staple, Vegan Coleslaw, can be easily made by combining shredded cabbage and carrots in a dressing of vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar. 

Ingredients 

• Shredded cabbage
• Shredded carrots
• Vegan mayonnaise
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sugar

Recipe 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and shredded carrots.
• Prepare the dressing in a separate small bowl by mixing vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Adjust the amount of sugar to taste.
• If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can opt for a mild, neutral-flavoured oil such as Saffola Gold instead.
• Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots.
• Toss the coleslaw until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
• Serve the Vegan Coleslaw cold as a refreshing and crunchy side dish for your picnic.

5. Sesame Noodle Salad

Sesame Noodle Salad offers a tangy and textured side that's both fulfilling and flavourful. Here’s how to make this Asian delight: 

Ingredients 

• Noodles (such as spaghetti or soba noodles)
• Soy sauce
• Corn oil
• Honey
• Spring onions (green onions), sliced
• Sesame seeds
• Slivered almonds

Recipe 

• Cook noodles until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
• In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, corn oil, and honey to make the dressing.
• Add noodles to the dressing and toss until coated.
• Mix in sliced spring onions, sesame seeds, and slivered almonds.
• Adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is a testament to how using the right oil for grill and BBQ recipes can elevate simple ingredients into a dish that's both tasty and thoughtful towards health. 

 

The Takeaway

In wrapping up our culinary journey through summer sizzles, picnics, and BBQs, it's evident that the choice of oil plays a pivotal role in both the flavour and healthfulness of our outdoor feasts. Oils like Saffola Gold, with their balanced mix of MUFA and PUFA fatty acids, not only bring out the best in our grill recipes but also contribute to a heart-healthy diet. And for those conscious about cholesterol, Saffola Total is clinically proven to lower cholesterol, offering a mindful option for all your cooking needs. As we continue to explore the joys of outdoor cooking, remember that the right grill oil can transform your barbecue oil needs, ensuring that your meals are not just delicious but also nutritious. Here's to a summer of flavourful adventures that are as good for the heart as they are for the palate.