Potatoes – an undeniable favorite, while fruits are still a rarity
The survey showed that Lithuanians primarily choose vegetables for grilling. As many as 69% of respondents have grilled potatoes, more than half – 54% – bell peppers, and 45% prepare zucchini on the grill. Mushrooms are not far behind in popularity, grilled by 43% of respondents, followed by onions (33%) and eggplants (25%).
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The situation is quite different with fruits. Only 4% of respondents have grilled peaches or nectarines, and the same percentage have tried watermelon. Although these products have not yet become a common part of grilling in Lithuania, they have long been valued worldwide for the way their natural sweetness emerges and completely new flavors are revealed when grilled.
Among other products mentioned by survey participants were corn, asparagus, bananas, pineapples, apples, avocados, carrots, and tomatoes – indicating that some Lithuanians do not shy away from experimenting with grilling.
“When fruits reach their seasonal peak, they are naturally the most aromatic, sweetest, and juiciest. That’s why it’s worth trying them now not only by eating them fresh but also by grilling them. Peaches, nectarines, or watermelon can surprise even those who are used to seeing fruits only in desserts,” says G. Kitovė.
Grilling doesn’t require perfect weather
The survey shows that most Lithuanians don’t wait for perfect weather to grill. More than half of respondents (51%) say that the most important thing is that it doesn’t rain, and another 22% admit to grilling even on cloudy days. Only 27% of respondents choose to grill only when it’s warm and sunny outside.
“Lithuanians are increasingly viewing grilling not just as an entertainment for the hottest summer days, but as a simple way to prepare delicious food. A hot day is not necessary for this – good company, quality products, and a desire to try something new are enough,” adds G. Kitovė.
The fact that grilling has become a common part of summer for many is also shown by how often Lithuanians do it. Almost a quarter of respondents (24%) grill food about once a week, another 12% do it several times a week or even more often, and 30% grill several times a month.
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And for those who decide to try not only conventional products on the grill this summer, the retail chain’s culinary chef Jolita Tamoševičienė offers two recipes proving that fruits on the grill can surprise no less than meat or vegetables.
Spicy Grilled Watermelon with Honey and Greek Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 small seedless watermelon,
- ground chili peppers or cayenne pepper,
- 1 lime,
- a pinch of salt,
- a handful of fresh mint,
- 200 g Greek yogurt,
- 1 tbsp. honey.
Instructions:
Cut the watermelon into long strips about a finger’s thickness. Lightly sprinkle them with chili peppers and place them on a well-heated grill. Grill for 1–2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear, but the watermelon still retains its shape.
While still warm, drizzle the watermelon with lime juice, sprinkle with salt and chopped mint. Mix the Greek yogurt with honey and serve as a side sauce.
Grilled Peaches with Honey Butter, Vanilla Ice Cream, and Crispy Crumbs
Ingredients:
- 4 peaches or nectarines,
- 60 g butter,
- 2 tbsp. honey,
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract,
- 1½ tsp. ground cinnamon,
- 4 slices of brioche bun (brioche),
- 2 tbsp. sugar,
- vanilla ice cream.
Instructions:
Tear or cut the brioche bun into small cubes. Mix with 20g melted butter, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Place in a grill-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet and, stirring occasionally, bake over indirect heat for about 8–10 minutes until the crumbs are crispy and golden brown.
Heat the remaining butter in a small pan until it turns a light golden color and develops a pleasant nutty aroma. Remove from heat, stir in the honey, vanilla extract, and remaining cinnamon.
Halve the peaches, remove the pits, and grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes on each side. Serve the warm peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with honey butter sauce, and generously sprinkle with crispy bun crumbs.
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Enjoy!
