Springtime Grilling Tips & Recipes

As spring approaches, it's the perfect time to bring out the grill and prepare some delicious meals. For those of us in the U.S., the mild spring weather offers the ideal opportunity to enjoy outdoor cooking, even if it’s still a bit chilly outside. Whether it’s sizzling burgers, grilled veggies, or smoky hot dogs, spring grilling is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into some useful spring grilling tips, essential replacement parts you should consider, and a couple of spring-inspired grilling recipes that you’ll want to try. First things first—your grill has likely been sitting idle all winter, so give it a thorough cleaning before firing it up again. Use soapy water to scrub away any dirt or debris both inside and outside the grill. Don’t forget about your grilling tools—they need just as much attention as the grill itself. If you’ve got a wire brush for cleaning, it’s time to retire it. Wire brushes are notorious for shedding bristles, which could end up in your food and pose a health risk if ingested. Instead, opt for safer alternatives like a nylon brush, a wooden scraper, or a grill-cleaning cloth. To keep your grill looking sharp and rust-free, apply a coat of rustproof metal paint to its exterior. While you don’t need to worry about painting the wheels or hardware (these grill components are easy and inexpensive to replace), protecting the main body will ensure your grill stays in good condition during the rainy season ahead. Here are three additional tips for prepping your grill for spring: 1. Stock up on fuel. A gas grill requires a steady supply of gas to function properly. 2. Clean out the grease traps. Grease buildup can lead to dangerous flare-ups, so it’s important to keep them clean. 3. Cover your grill when not in use. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so a cover will help shield your grill from the elements. When it comes to replacing parts, there are a few essentials you should consider. First, inspect the burners, which provide the heat source. Depending on your grill model, it might have one or multiple burners, typically shaped like ovals or Hs. High-end models might feature up to four or more burners. For longevity, stainless steel burners are the best investment since they resist corrosion better than other materials. The rock grates and cooking grates may also need updating. Rock grates are fairly affordable to replace, whereas cooking grates can vary in price. Opt for stainless steel cooking grates if you’re looking for durability, as they outlast chrome-plated steel grates, particularly when it comes to rust resistance. Alternatively, you could swap out rock grates for heat shields, which perform similarly but are less prone to bacterial growth and often easier to replace. Now, let’s talk about some flavorful spring-themed grilling recipes you can try on your PGS grill: Grilled Asparagus with Mozzarella Spring is a fantastic time to focus on healthy eating, and grilling is a great way to incorporate fresh ingredients into your diet. For this dish, simply preheat your grill to medium heat, toss asparagus spears lightly with olive oil, and grill them until tender. About three minutes before removing them from the grill, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the asparagus and drizzle with a touch of lemon vinaigrette. The result is a light, nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with any spring meal. Tuscan Chicken with Grilled Fennel and Onions This recipe combines classic Tuscan flavors with the smoky charm of the grill. Start by lining a sheet of aluminum foil with vegetable oil, then add sliced fennel and onions. Place your seasoned chicken breasts on top and wrap the foil securely. As the chicken cooks, the fennel and onions will infuse it with their flavors. If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes five minutes before the chicken is done.