Fired Up for Grilling Season

Memorial Day is around the corner and that means grills on balconies, decks and patios all across Chicago are starting to see some serious action (unless you're a hardcore king or queen of the Q and your grill knows no such thing as a polar vortex). Besides stocking up on propane or charcoal—the propane vs. charcoal is one of those hotly debated topics among those who grill—how about checking out some great grilling cookbooks to find inspiration that goes beyond the ordinary burgers, hot dogs and steaks?

Start with Guy on Fire for a cookbook from one of the kings of the grill, Guy Fieri. Whether your style is low and slow or you prefer hot, firey sears, everyone will enjoy this grilling cookbook loaded with photos and mouthwatering recipes.

Also worthy of picking up off the shelf is Fire & Smoke. Pitmaster Chris Lilly takes readers on a culinary adventure that combines both fire and smoke to create delicious meals to feed the family—quick and simple enough even for weeknights. With over a hundred recipes, this book is filled with Lilly's expertise and will guide you to creating meals that have just the flavors you're looking for.

Grilling is not just for meat lovers though. Vegetarians and flexitarians can find inspiration in The Gardener & the Grill, which is filled with recipes for grilling vegetables, meats and fruits. If you like eating seasonally, enjoy gardening or simply love the flavors obtained from grilling food, check out this book.

If you need even more inspiration, check out our full selection of grilling cookbooks. I will leave the charcoal grill, gas grill, Big Green Egg debate up to you, just invite me to dinner!