Kabobs: Summer on a Stick

The infatuation with food on sticks starts when we’re young, with hot dogs and marshmallows speared and roasted over a campfire. We might move on to other things, like corndogs or tornado potatoes, but the heart of food on sticks lies with the fire, and that’s why, every summer, our minds and bellies turn to the kabob.

Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggie Kabobs

Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggie Kabobs opens in a new tabThe infatuation with food on sticks starts when we’re young, with hot dogs and marshmallows speared and roasted over a campfire. We might move on to other things, like corndogs or tornado potatoes, but the heart of food on sticks lies with the fire, and that’s why, every summer, our minds and bellies turn to the kabob.

The beauty of the kabob lies in its versatility. Whatever meat or veg (or even fruit!) suit your tastes, they have a place on your skewer.  Kabobs can be cooked over an open flame or set on the grill, or even done in the oven if you lack a grill!

Keys for Kabobs

  • Whatever your kabob focus, make sure the ingredients are all cut to a similar size. This will help it cook more evenly, as well as making it easier to eat.

  • Using bamboo skewers? Make sure to soak them in water for at least 60 minutes to reduce scorching on the fire.

  • Try using rosemary sprigs in place of skewers. It will add incredible flavor!

  • Alternate different-shaped foods on each skewer for easy flipping. For shrimp kabobs, try using two skewers to prevent the shrimp from spinning.

  • Thread ingredients onto skewers and then marinate in a non-reactive container in the fridge.

  • Use direct heat for grilling.

  • Serve with pita, tortillas or crispy lettuce leaves for utensil- and plate-free eating.

Kabob Recipes

Want to make your own kabob? Here are a few of my favorite recipes. They’re the best way to spear summer flavor!

Pineapple-Chicken Kabobs with Quinoa
Tandoori-Style Shrimp and Vegetable Kabobs
Tofu Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Mango Jerk Sauce
Beef Franks Mini Kabobs
Grilled Veggie Kabobs
Grilled Tuna Kabobs with Peach Mango Salsa
Spicy Grilled Peach and Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Caprese Salad

Grilled Caprese Salad opens in a new tabHungry for even more? Check out all our kabob recipes opens in a new tab.

What’s your favorite kabob? Share your recipe in the comments!

6/23/14 - Blog updated to delete outdated sale information.

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