Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then fire up the grill! Grilling is a fantastic way to create flavorful, healthy meals quickly, perfect for couples or even a solo treat. These easy grill recipes for two are designed to be both romantic and practical, perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend evening. Get ready to impress your loved one (or yourself!) with these simple yet sensational dishes.
Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe is a perfect example of quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious food. The bright citrus notes of the lemon perfectly complement the richness of the salmon, while the asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant touch. It's a healthy meal packed with protein and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, Herbes de Provence, or your favorite blend)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the ingredients: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the asparagus and pat it dry. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and drizzle with half of the herb-oil mixture. Turn to coat both sides, then let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Grill the asparagus: Toss the asparagus with the remaining herb-oil mixture. Place it on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
- Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Top each fillet with a few lemon slices during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Remove the salmon and asparagus from the grill. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Tip: For perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for the asparagus.
Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter and Simple Salad
This classic pairing is always a winner. A juicy grilled steak, enhanced by a flavorful garlic butter, is the perfect centerpiece for a romantic dinner. A simple side salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or your favorite cut)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Mixed greens salad kit (or your favorite greens, tomatoes, cucumbers)
- Your favorite salad dressing
Instructions:
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare the steaks: Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the steaks: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steaks for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. During the last minute of grilling, top each steak with a spoonful of garlic butter.
- Prepare the salad: While the steaks are grilling, prepare your salad according to package instructions or your own preferences.
- Serve: Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Serve alongside the fresh salad.
Cooking Tip: Don't overcrowd the grill. Give the steaks enough space to cook evenly.
Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the garlic butter, such as thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus: Calories: 350-400, Protein: 30-35g, Fat: 15-20g
Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter and Simple Salad: Calories: 450-550, Protein: 35-45g, Fat: 25-30g
These easy grill recipes for two are just a starting point. Get creative, experiment with different flavors and ingredients, and enjoy the delicious results! Happy grilling!