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At Lucini Italia, we love the art of Italian cooking, and we’re committed to spreading the flavors and foods of Italy. One such Italian tradition is grigliata. This term translates to “grill out” and refers to the centuries-old tradition of cooking food over an open fire.

Opting Outdoors

In the summer months, just as the weather begins to warm, Italians open their windows and head outside. It’s not uncommon to see cafés move tables outdoors so that patrons can enjoy the sunshine. Impromptu barbecues with families and friends also take place, though they look a little different than the barbecues we’re used to here in the US.

Italian Barbecues

In grigliata cooking, Italians focus on simple foods whose flavors are enhanced by the method of cooking over an open fire. Rather than slathering meats in barbecue sauce, they focus on selecting high-quality meats and using simple marinades that allow the natural flavors to shine through. At the very heart of Italian grilling recipes are fresh vegetables, proteins, herbs, olive oil, and lemon juice. Even seasonings are kept simple, with most grilled meats finished off with a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

The Menu

Along with grilled meats and seafood, many classic Italian staples can be made on the grill. This includes bruschetta and pizza, and even winter staples like eggplant parmesan. Along with appetizers and entrees making the grigliata menu, desserts are made on the grill as well. Peaches and other stone fruits are a popular grilled dessert during the summer months, and are often paired with ricotta and a drizzle of balsamic.

Grilling Tips

If you’re ready to start grilling the Italian way, it’s important to have an excellent extra virgin olive oil on hand. Olive oil is often overlooked for grilling because it is said to have a low smoke point, but that simply isn’t true. High-quality extra virgin olive oil like our Lucini Premium Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a smoke point of over 400 degrees. Olive oil is an important grilling staple from start to finish. It is great for building marinades, preventing sticking during the grilling process, and as a flavorful finish once your food has been grilled.

From Grilling to Grigliata

If you’d like to add a little bit of Italy into your grilling routine, Lucini Premium Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the perfect choice to have on hand. Browse our online shop or find a store near you to bring authentic Lucini olive oil and other gourmet Italian ingredients straight into your home today!

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