When summer rolls into Tennessee, so do long evenings on the patio, the comforting sizzle of the grill, and the opportunity to cook meals that are as vibrant and fresh as the season itself. At Black Diamond Culinary, we believe summer cooking should be about simplicity, elegance, and celebrating seasonal ingredients—without the heaviness of traditional barbecue sauces or complicated recipes.

Whether you're preparing a light dinner for two or hosting a weekend gathering with friends, summer is the perfect time to step away from heavy meals and explore the lighter side of grilling. This July, we invite you to try something different: grilling vegetables to perfection, infusing your meals with fresh herbs, and exploring the world of flavored olive oils. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.

The Art of Grilling Vegetables: Nature’s Canvas

Grilling isn't just for burgers and ribs. Vegetables, when prepared with a little care, are transformed on the grill into smoky, caramelized delights bursting with flavor.

Some of our favorite vegetables to grill include:

  • Zucchini and yellow squash – Slice lengthwise, brush with garlic-infused olive oil, and grill until tender.

  • Bell peppers – Their natural sweetness intensifies on the grill. Try red, orange, and yellow for a beautiful presentation.

  • Portobello mushrooms – A hearty, umami-rich option that can even serve as a plant-based main course.

  • Asparagus and green beans – Toss with lemon zest and olive oil before grilling for a crisp-tender bite.

  • Eggplant – Sliced into thick rounds and brushed with herbed oil, grilled eggplant is a Mediterranean favorite.

The key to grilling vegetables is not to overdo it. You want a gentle char that enhances their natural flavors without turning them mushy. A quick marinade in flavored olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and a brush of fresh herbs are all you need.

Fresh Herbs: Elevate Every Bite

Nothing embodies summertime more than the scent of freshly snipped herbs. They bring brightness, aroma, and a hint of luxury to any dish—and they’re incredibly easy to incorporate into your grilling routine.

Try these herb pairings to elevate your meals:

  • Basil + tomatoes – Add to grilled vegetable skewers or brush onto bread before toasting on the grill.

  • Rosemary + potatoes – Toss baby potatoes with rosemary olive oil and grill in foil until fork-tender.

  • Thyme + mushrooms – Infuse portobellos with thyme and garlic for earthy depth.

  • Mint + zucchini – A fresh twist that pairs beautifully with lemon and feta.

  • Parsley + eggplant – Toss chopped parsley with grilled eggplant and a splash of balsamic for a rustic, Italian-style side.

At Black Diamond Culinary, we always remind our guests that herbs don’t need to be complicated. Use them fresh, chop them coarsely, and let them shine. They’re not just a garnish—they’re a star.

Flavored Olive Oils: Your Secret Summer Weapon

One of our favorite ways to keep summer meals light yet flavorful is by using flavored olive oils instead of traditional sauces or dressings. They’re a healthier alternative to heavy BBQ sauces, and they add complexity without masking the natural taste of your ingredients.

Some of our go-to olive oils for summer include:

  • Garlic-infused – Perfect for brushing over grilled bread or vegetables

  • Lemon or citrus-infused – Ideal for seafood, grilled chicken, or summer salads

  • Chili pepper – Add heat to skewers or drizzle over grilled corn

  • Herb blends – Combine olive oil with rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a quick marinade

  • Basil-infused – Delicious over pasta salad or grilled tomatoes and mozzarella

Tip from Chef Kris: Warm your olive oil gently with herbs or citrus zest before brushing it onto vegetables or proteins. This helps infuse even more flavor without overcomplicating your prep.

Build a Mediterranean-Inspired Grilling Menu

If you're feeling inspired, try building your summer meal around Mediterranean principles: fresh vegetables, olive oil, herbs, grilled meats or fish, and simple accompaniments. Here's a light and elegant menu idea you can try at home:

Starter:
Grilled eggplant rounds topped with whipped goat cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Main Course:
Lemon and herb-marinated grilled chicken breasts, served with grilled zucchini and a mint-parsley quinoa salad

Side:
Grilled sweet peppers and red onions, tossed with chili-infused olive oil and sea salt

Dessert:
Grilled peaches with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey

Wine Pairing:
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled Rosé, reminiscent of summer evenings in the South of France

Tips for Hosting a Summer Grilling Class or Private Dinner

Looking to elevate your summer gatherings? Consider booking a private cooking class or chef’s table experience with Black Diamond Culinary in Franklin or Nashville. Whether you’re planning a date night, a group experience, or a corporate event, Chef Kris will guide you through preparing beautiful seasonal meals that bring people together—without the stress.

In our summer cooking classes, you’ll learn:

  • How to grill vegetables perfectly every time

  • Ways to incorporate fresh herbs into every dish

  • Flavor pairing tips with oils, vinegars, and wine

  • How to plate your dishes for an elegant, restaurant-quality presentation

We believe cooking should be joyful, not intimidating—and nothing says summer like gathering around the grill, sharing a meal, and creating memories that last.

Let’s Cook Light, Cook Fresh, and Savor Summer Together

Summer is a season of abundance—and that includes the bounty of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and sun-drenched flavors. At Black Diamond Culinary, we encourage you to keep it simple, cook with heart, and let the ingredients do the talking. Whether you're experimenting on your backyard grill or joining us in the kitchen for a class, there's no better time to embrace light, wholesome, and delicious meals.

This July, ditch the heavy sauces and try something a little more refined. Your summer table awaits.

Ready to take your grilling game to the next level?
Join Chef Kris at Black Diamond Culinary for a private cooking class or summer-inspired dinner experience in Franklin, Nashville & beyond. Contact us today to reserve your spot!