2 Easy Grilled Appetizers to Kick Off Your Summer Party

Two smoky-sweet appetizers that bring the heat (and the honey) to your next patio party.

Summer entertaining is all about keeping it casual but just a little extra. Whether you're lighting up the grill for burgers or hosting a full-on bonfire night, these two grilled starters are here to set the tone: vibrant, hands-on, and ridiculously good-looking.

First up, we’ve got Charred Corn Ribs with Lime Butter and Tajín—aka the snacky little cousins of classic corn on the cob. Then we’re getting fancy with Grilled Halloumi + Summer Fruit Skewers, a salty-sweet combo that looks as good as it tastes.

These recipes are easy to prep ahead, super grill-friendly, and full of that laid-back Host Mode On energy we love.

Let’s get into it.

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🔥Charred Corn Ribs with Lime Butter + Tajín

These are like summer fries—grilled to perfection, slathered in butter and lime, and dusted with smoky Tajín. They're hands-on, juicy, and guaranteed to disappear in five minutes or less.

Ingredients (4 servings):

• 2 ears of corn, husked

• 2 tbsp grass-fed butter, melted

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1–2 tsp Tajín or chili-lime seasoning

• Olive oil for brushing

• Optional: chopped cilantro or crumbled cotija for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prep the corn ribs:
   Stand the corn upright and carefully slice each ear lengthwise into quarters (they’ll curl a bit as they cook—so cute).

2. Grill time:
   Brush with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for about 8–10 minutes, turning until they’re charred and starting to curl.

3. Flavor bomb:
   While they’re hot, brush with the melted butter and lime juice. Sprinkle generously with Tajín. Top with cilantro or cotija if you’re feeling fancy.

4. Serve ‘em stacked:
   Plate them high like fries and watch them disappear. Bonus points if you serve with a lime wedge or a spicy dipping sauce.

Host Mode Tips:

• Pairs like a dream with bourbon cocktails or cold beers

• Make extra—they go fast. You will regret only making two ears.

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🧀Grilled Halloumi + Summer Fruit Skewers

Think sweet peaches, caramelized pineapple, and soft pears paired with salty halloumi—skewered, grilled, and drizzled with honey. They’re chic enough for a garden party and chill enough for a backyard hang.

Ingredients (8 Skewers):

1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 ripe peach (or nectarine), cut into chunks

• 1 ripe but firm pear, cored and cut into chunks

• ½ small pineapple, peeled and cubed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp honey or hot honey

• Handful of mint, chopped

• Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon

• 8 skewers (soak if using wood)

Instructions:

1. Skewer it up:
   Alternate chunks of halloumi, peach, pineapple, or pear. Try to keep it colorful and well-balanced.

2. Grill ‘til golden:
   Preheat grill to medium and brush skewers with olive oil. Grill for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is golden and the fruit is tender.

3. Finish with flair:
   Drizzle warm skewers with honey, sprinkle with mint, and finish with lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon.

4. Serve warm:
   Plate on a platter and let them shine. Best enjoyed outside with a cocktail in hand.

Host Mode Tip:

Turn leftovers (if any survive) into a salad the next day with arugula, toasted walnuts, and a little balsamic. You’re welcome.

🌽 Let’s Get Grillin, Ilda