Flip It Like It’s Hot: Gluten-Free Grilling Tips

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Backyard BBQs, family cookouts, and summer potlucks are in full swing—but if you’re gluten-free, cooking on the grill can feel overwhelming. No worries—we’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re running the grill or just bringing your own safe plate, these gluten-free grilling tips will help you enjoy your summer BBQs without the stress. From avoiding cross-contamination to picking GF-friendly marinades and sides, this guide has everything you need to keep your cookout delicious and worry-free.

So, grab your tongs, bring the heat, and let’s make this summer sizzle—gluten-free style.

 

Grill Prep Checklist

Grill Prep

  • Clean grill grates thoroughly before use.
  • Use a grill mat or foil barrier for gluten-free items.
  • Separate utensils for GF foods (tongs, spatulas, plates)
  • Keep buns and bread items in sealed containers.
  • Label GF items so everyone knows what’s safe.

Sauce & Marinade Safety

  • Always double-check sauces and marinades for hidden gluten
  • Look for GF-labeled BBQ, teriyaki, and soy sauces.
  • DIY is your friend—oil, citrus, herbs, and vinegar go a long way!

Must-Try GF Marinades

DIY Marinades That Keep It Easy—and Tasty

Lemon Garlic Herb Marinade

Perfect for chicken or veggies

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:
Whisk it all together and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hrs. for chicken)

 

Sweet & Tangy Balsamic Marinade

Great for steak, mushrooms, or chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (check label for GF!)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Shake it up in a jar and marinate for 1–8 hours.

 

Simple Ginger-Sesame Marinade

Great for shrimp, tofu, or veggie skewers

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup gluten-free tamari (soy sauce alt)
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced.
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or brown sugar

Instructions:
Whisk together, marinate for 30 mins to 2 hrs., then grill away!

Sides & Add – Ons
  • Grilled veggie, shrimp, or chicken kebobs
  • Corn on the cob with herb butter (be sure to check the butter source!)
  • Pineapple rings or peaches on the grill
  • GF chips + guac or salsa
  • Fresh fruit salad or fruit skewers
 
GFCO Gluten-Free Bread & Buns
  • Canyon Bakehouse, Katz Burger Buns, Mission Tortilla Wraps
  • Toast buns on foil to avoid contact with a shared grill.
  • Bring GF wraps or lettuce if buns aren’t your thing.

 

Desserts & Treats
  • GF cookies or brownies
  • Marshmallows and GF graham crackers for s’mores
  • Fruit kabobs with a drizzle of honey or melted chocolate.
 
Drinks
  • GF beer, hard seltzers, or ciders
  • Fresh lemonade, iced tea, or mocktails
  • Clearly labeled cocktails (if applicable)

 

That’s a Wrap!

No matter where your summer takes, picnics, cookouts, beach days, or backyard hanging—you’ve got everything you need to keep it safe, fun, and gluten-free.