While classics, like burgers and beans, always have a place on the menu, there are a few ideas you can add to take the party up a notch. Here are some helpful tips, and a few fantastic recipes for the basics and beyond, courtesy of Jungle Jim’s International Market.
Start with appetizers and snacks
• A variety of chips with dips like salsa, guacamole, and spinach artichoke dip.
• Spicy jalapeño peppers stuffed with cream cheese or cheddar cheese and wrapped in bacon.
• Skewers of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze.
• Prosciutto wrapped grilled asparagus. See recipe at junglejims.com, search prosciutto-wrapped-grilled-asparagus.
Move to the main course
• Provide a selection of beef, turkey, or veggie burgers with an assortment of toppings. “This time of year, I fire up the grill at least three times a week. Our Prime Cut is a must have. Its beautiful marbling enhances its flavor and ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience every time.” – Bob Chaulk, meat manager at Jungle Jim’s Eastgate
• Serve up classic hot dogs and a variety of sausages like bratwurst, Italian sausage, and chorizo.
• Marinate chicken pieces in your favorite barbecue sauce or spice rub before grilling for juicy, flavorful chicken.
• Offer a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and corn on the cob for your vegetarian guests or as tasty sides for everyone. “Everyone always thinks of meat when it comes to grilling season. I personally can’t have steak without freshly sautéed baby bella mushrooms and sweet vidalia onions.”- Elissa Benner, produce manager at Jungle Jim’s Eastgate
• If you’re a fan of seafood, consider grilling shrimp skewers, salmon fillets, or even whole fish.
See recipe at junglejims.com, search grilled salmon with mustard and herbs.
Side dishes to share
Everyone has their family’s favorite recipe when it comes to side dishes. It could be mac and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, or something with an international twist—like Greek feta potato salad—see recipe at junglejims.com, search greek-feta-potato-salad. Invite guests to contribute, it makes your job a bit easier and lets them feel like an integral part of the party.
Desserts worth indulging
• A s’mores station with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate.
• Grilled pineapple or peaches served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. See recipe at housetrends.com, search grilled peaches.
• Indulgent chocolate brownies or blondies.
• A DIY ice cream sundae bar with various ice cream flavors, toppings like hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, nuts, and whipped cream.
Search for products at junglejims.com/explore
513-674-6000
www.JungleJims.com
Store Hours: Monday-Sunday 8am-10pm
Eastgate
4450 Eastgate South Drive
Cincinnati, Ohio 45245
Fairfield
5440 Dixie Hwy
Fairfield, Ohio 45014
Article originally appeared in May 2024