You know it’s summer when the rocky beaches in Malta are dotted with glowing red flames emerging from make-do BBQs resting on the salty limestone. Although beach BBQs now require permits; a home BBQ always gets the go-ahead - it’s deciding what to cook that’s the problem. Whether it’s a meaty feast, a fishy spread or a veggie version; here are a few essential ingredients you have to try this summer!

The meat eater

Pink sausages

Pink sausages - you know the ones. We all love them - they’re a guilty pleasure that's hard to resist, and can even cause the most adamant veggie to crack and take a bite. If anyone ever tells you that they don’t like them, unfriend them, block them from your life and move along - it just can’t be true. The pink sausages are best served barbecued, with slightly burnt sides and a dipping sauce of your fancy.

The fish out

Calamari

If you’ve never tried grilling your calamari on the BBQ, this summer is the perfect time to do so. When grilled, calamari retain their sweet flavour while hitting the smoky aromas caused by the lava, coal or wood fuelling your grill. Score the squid when raw to allow for even cooking. Marinating for an hour will give the meal an added punch.

The veggie alternative

Corn on the cob

Corn on the cob is so much fun! Grilling it on a BBQ is a great way to get those veggies into your diet and also adds on the bonus points with your veggie friends. They only need a couple of minutes on either side when pre-cooked, so not much fuss here. Replace the regular butter smear with a tiny bit of mayo, lime juice and some paprika - to die for.

The sides

Potato salad

Potato salad makes an appearance at every BBQ, whether it’s the star of the show or not is another debate altogether. Sprucing up your potato salad is not a tedious task - it’s 10 times healthier and just as delicious. Swap your regular full fat mayo for Greek yoghurt, finely dice a handful of chives and a small red onion, mix it all up with the boiled potatoes and hey presto, you’re all set. Go the extra mile and substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or Jerusalem artichokes.

The bevvys

Beer... lots of it

This one’s a given. Underrated due to the fact that beer is always on the menu, but really taken for granted. We only notice how much we love and need beer at a BBQ when some smart alec forgets to cool the keg in time for the party. There’s nothing like a burnt sausage and a cold beer combo. Maltese summers at their best. 

Getting all these items on your grill this summer will certainly add some flavour to your evening. BONUS: keep the coals burning - those marshmallows in your bag need to get gooey somehow!

Toni Cassar Dowling