Summer Cuts & Pairings Grill Guide

Summer Cuts & Pairings Grill Guide

Cuts & Pairings Grill Guide: Your Summer BBQ Starts Here

Grilling season is officially here, which means it's time to build the ultimate backyard BBQ lineup. Whether you're hosting family for a weekend cookout, inviting friends over for dinner on the patio, or just looking for easy ways to upgrade weeknight grilling, the right proteins and pairings can make entertaining feel effortless. From steakhouse-quality cuts to fresh seafood favorites, this guide breaks down the best ways to cook, pair, and serve some of our favorite grilling staples all summer long.

Ribeye

Rich marbling, bold beef flavor, and a perfectly juicy bite — the Ribeye is a steakhouse classic for a reason. This cut shines on the grill thanks to its natural tenderness and beautiful caramelized crust.


Best Way to Cook

Grill over high heat for a deep sear, then finish to your preferred doneness. Let rest before slicing.


Perfect Pairings

  • Grilled asparagus
  • Roasted potatoes
  • Caesar salad
  • Garlic bread

Butter & Sauce Ideas

  • Garlic herb butter
  • Cowboy butter
  • Creamy horseradish sauce
  • Chimichurri

Marinade Ideas

Ribeye doesn't need much — keep it simple with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and cracked pepper.

Faroe Island Salmon

Known for its rich texture and clean flavor, Faroe Island Salmon is one of the most versatile proteins for summer grilling. It's light enough for warm-weather meals while still feeling satisfying and elevated.


Best Way to Cook

Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.


Perfect Pairings

  • Grilled corn
  • Summer salads
  • Rice pilaf
  • Lemon herb couscous

Butter & Sauce Ideas

  • Lemon dill sauce
  • Garlic butter
  • Honey mustard glaze
  • Herb yogurt sauce

Marinade Ideas

Try olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, garlic, and a touch of honey for a bright summer flavor.

Chicken Breast

A backyard BBQ staple, chicken breast is easy to prep, easy to grill, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The key is keeping it flavorful and juicy.


Best Way to Cook

Grill over medium-high heat until fully cooked with light char marks on both sides.


Perfect Pairings

  • Pasta salad
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Mac and cheese
  • Watermelon feta salad

Butter & Sauce Ideas

  • BBQ sauce
  • Roasted garlic butter
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Basil pesto

Marinade Ideas

Chicken breast works well with almost any marinade. Try Italian dressing, lemon garlic herb, honey mustard, or smoky BBQ blends.

Pork Ribeye

Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, Pork Ribeye is an underrated grilling favorite. It delivers steakhouse-style richness with a slightly sweeter, savory bite that pairs perfectly with summer flavors.


Best Way to Cook

Grill over medium-high heat until nicely charred and cooked through, then let rest before serving.


Perfect Pairings

  • Grilled pineapple
  • Coconut rice
  • Street corn
  • Fresh cucumber salad

Butter & Sauce Ideas

  • Pineapple glaze
  • Maple butter
  • Bourbon BBQ sauce
  • Garlic chili butter

Marinade Ideas

Pork Ribeye pairs beautifully with soy sauce, garlic, honey, citrus, and smoky spice blends.

Black Angus New York Strip

A true classic, the Black Angus New York Strip is known for its rich beef flavor, tender texture, and perfect balance of marbling. Whether you're grilling for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this classic cut delivers a premium steakhouse experience right at home. 


Best Way to Cook

Grill or sear over high heat until a rich crust forms on both sides, then cook to your preferred level of doneness. Let the steak rest before slicing to lock in its natural juices. 


Perfect Pairings

  • Loaded baked potatoes
  • Grilled brussels sprouts
  • Creamed spinach
  • Roasted mushrooms

Butter & Sauce Ideas

  • Garlic herb butter
  • Blue Cheese butter
  • Chimichurri
  • Red wine reduction

Marinade Ideas

The New York Strip is naturally rich and flavorful, so a simple marinade goes a long way. Try garlic and herbs, Worcestershire and cracked pepper, balsamic steak marinade, or a classic blend of olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. 

From quick weeknight dinners to full backyard spreads, great grilling starts with quality proteins and simple pairings that let every ingredient shine. Whether you're firing up Ribeye for steak night, grilling fresh salmon for a lighter dinner, or making the Tomahawk the centerpiece of your next cookout, the right combinations can turn any BBQ into a meal worth gathering around.

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