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April Showers, Grilling Power

Grill on a outdoor patio with food on the cooking grids.

It’s April! It’s spring! And it’s raining! Don’t let the gray skies get you down. You know the saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” And what do May flowers bring? If you said prime grilling season, you’re right! But you don’t have to wait for warmer weather to get out your grill. Don’t let a little rain dampen your grilling spirit! Any time of year is a great time to make a delectable meal. So, get out your raincoat and read on for some rain-resistant grilling tips, quick recipes, and more.

 

Focus on Safety

First, let’s talk safety. You should never grill when strong winds, thunder, or lightning are present. The same goes if there’s a risk of flooding in your area. If it’s not safe for you to be outside, you shouldn’t be grilling. And forget about moving your grill to the garage. Propane grills are safest when they are operated outside and should never be operated indoors.

As you get your grill ready for spring, now is a great time to review the manufacturer’s guide for your grill and take a look at the safety messaging on the side of your Blue Rhino propane tank or at BlueRhino.com. Be sure to check your tank and grill for wear and tear, as well as leaks. You can find helpful information on how to do that properly here.

Never operate your grill inside your home or garage, or within 10 feet of anything combustible. That includes your home, your deck or porch, your shed, trees, bushes, and other flammable materials or structures.

In addition, you’ll want to use springtime as an opportunity to consider where you store your extra Blue Rhino grilling tanks. You should never store them inside, including in your garage or shed. Propane tanks are best stored outside in a well-ventilated, flat, stable area. Bonus points if that spot is in the shade!

 

Overcoming the Rain

Now let’s talk about that spring rain. If you’re wondering how you’re going to fire up your grill while it’s raining outside, there are some things you can do to make your experience a little more weather resistant.

To protect your grill from rain when you’re not using it, invest in a weather-resistant grill cover. A good, sturdy cover can offer protection in all types of weather. Rain and metal – in other words, your grill – don’t mix. By protecting your grill, you can help ward off rust and other weather-related damage, too. You’ll always want to clean and dry your grill after each use, then cover it again once it’s cool.

While we’re on the subject, don’t forget your raincoat! Find one that’s waterproof, not just water resistant, for the best protection. You’ll also want to wear good, sturdy, waterproof footwear to prevent slips and falls. Traction is key when you’re outdoors in the rain. Wearing a grill apron can also help keep your clothes dry. Whatever you wear, be sure that your clothing doesn't get too close to the flame.

No matter what spring weather throws you, always make sure your grill is on a stable surface away from flammable materials. Store it in a dry area, ideally out of direct sunlight but somewhere with air flow. A shady corner of your patio is a great spot. You can find more grilling safety tips here.

 

Quick, Delicious Recipes

Even with your raincoat, your boots, and your apron, you’ll want to limit the amount of time you’re outside grilling. No one wants to be cold, wet, and miserable. That’s why we are featuring these easy, time-saving recipes.

Pineapple Stuffed Shrimp Wrapped in Bacon

Three finished bacon raps in toothpicks on a green plate, sitting on a off yellow table. First, try these Pineapple Stuffed Shrimp Wrapped in Bacon. Now that sounds like summer! With just three ingredients, this dish is quick to assemble and easy to cook. Shrimp take just minutes to be fully cooked, so you’ll be back inside where it’s warm and dry before you know it.


 

Simple Grilled Ribeye

Grilled steak with french fries and green beans on a white a plate, sitting on a granite table. If steak is more your thing, you can make this Simple Grilled Ribeye. And when we say simple, we mean simple! Salt and pepper to taste bring out the ribeye’s natural flavors and highlight your professional-looking grill marks. Now that’s how you make steak!


 

Toasted Pecan Tilapia

Closeup of grilled toasted pecan tilapia on a blue plate. Toasted Pecan Tilapia will help you look past the rain and see the sand and surf instead. Nutty pecans and seasoned breadcrumbs give this fish dish a perfectly buttery, crunchy crust. Flaky tilapia cooked in a cast-iron pan on the grill sizzles away until it’s the perfect temperature. A little hot sauce adds some zing to this recipe.


 

S’mores Waffle Cones

Two finished s'mores waffle cones standing up aluminum foil at the base, with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips and a third s'mores waffle cones on a white plate, sitting on a wood patio table, wi Just because you’re grilling in the rain doesn’t mean you don’t have time to make dessert! Grilled S’mores Waffle Cones are portable and they cook up quickly. Who doesn’t love the combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and ice cream cones? It’s sure to be a hit with your family. We have our partners at Operation BBQ Relief to thank for this delicious recipe!


 

Fuel Up!

You can’t fire up your trusty gas grill without propane! Think for a minute. Is the tank you have nearly empty from all that grilling you did last summer? Now’s a great time to take stock of what’s on hand. Why not pick up an extra tank while you’re out? The only thing better than a fresh Blue Rhino is a second one – or a third. By having extra propane at home, you’ll ensure you have uninterrupted grilling all spring and summer long. Not sure where to find a Blue Rhino retailer? Click here to find a location near you. Also, sign up for emails for reminders, yummy recipes, and more!

 
 

You may even be able to skip a trip to the store. Blue Rhino Home Delivery is now offered in some areas. We’ll bring a fresh tank right to your home and you’ll never have to leave the house. Click here to see if it’s available in your neighborhood!

 

Now Get Grilling!

Now it’s time to get grilling! Don’t let a little rain keep you from manning the grill this spring. Just be sure to pay attention to any local weather warnings about potential storms or other weather events. The safety of you - our customer - is our primary focus. Now grab your raincoat and get outside!

 

Lasst updated: 2024.04.18

Switch up your weeknight routine by grilling your meals. We’re sharing time-saving tips to make it happen, as well as fast and flavorful recipes the whole family will enjoy! ========== Group of family and friends sitting around a table in the backyard eating food in the evening, with a grill and house in the backyard. ===========

Do you feel it? That slight change in the air? Do you hear the birds chirping and see those first few flowers starting to poke out of the ground? Spring is almost here, and change is all around us.

Life gets a little busier this time of year as people start to spend more time outside. The weather is warmer, school activities pick up, and who can forget spring sports? The good news – you don’t have to wait for the weekend to fire up the grill. Weeknight grilling is a great way to sneak in some more family time and encourage creativity with each recipe. Gas grills are perfect for weeknight meals, when time is precious. They start at the click of an igniter and require little clean up compared to other types of grilling. Read on to find out how you can set yourself up for grilling success.

 

It’s All About Preparation

Let’s face it, weeknights can be busy. Maybe you’re working late. The kids need to be picked up after practice. The dog has a check-up at the vet. You need to find time to exercise and still try to eat a balanced, healthy meal. Unfortunately, the decision of what to have for dinner is often last on your list. With a little prep work, though, you can take the headache out of meal planning so every night ends on a high note.

The easiest thing to do? Make a grocery list and plan your menu when you actually have time. Then, you won’t have to worry about it when you’re rushing around on a Wednesday evening. A little planning will help take away the question of, “What are we having for dinner?” so you can focus on other things – like spending quality time with your family and friends.

 

Marinate Meats in Advance and Prep Your Veggies

So, what can you do to help your cause? Be sure to marinate any meats in advance. By giving proteins more time to marinate, you’ll be able to enhance the flavor. You can also wash, cut, and store your vegetables ahead of time so they’re ready when it’s time to start grilling!

And don’t forget to pick up a fresh tank of Blue Rhino propane while you’re grabbing your groceries and running your errands. You don’t want to risk running out of fuel when it’s time to start dinner. You may also want to consider keeping a spare tank at home, so you can simply swap it out when the one you are using is empty.

Not sure where to pick one up? We’ve got you covered. You can use our handy propane finder to locate a store near you. Or try our home delivery service, which is now available in many markets across the country. Click here to see if we’ll deliver a fresh Blue Rhino propane tank to your neighborhood! It’ll help you cross one more thing off your “to do” list.

Before you get cooking, you’ll also want to be sure your grill is clean and easily accessible. You’ll be more excited to cook out if you don’t have to dig it out every time you want to use it. Be sure to keep it somewhere that is safe, but easy to access. Not sure where to start when it comes to cleaning your grill?

 
 

Forget the Oven or Microwave

If you’re like most people, you probably have leftovers sitting in your fridge. Reheating them isn’t always as simple as throwing them in the microwave for a few minutes. Things that were once crispy and delicious can get soggy when they’re reheated, but warming up the oven isn’t always an option. That’s where your grill comes in. It’ll likely get up to temperature a lot quicker than your oven, and if you use it to reheat your leftovers, they’ll have a smokey, savory flavor, too.

Remember, last night’s dinner could be tonight’s cookout! Don’t be afraid to turn your dishes into something new. Monday’s fruit salad could very easily become grilled fruit skewers, Tuesday’s pork chops could become grilled pork nachos, and Thursday’s sausage and peppers could easily become toppings for grilled pizza. The possibilities are practically endless! Using your leftovers still gives you that amazing “grilling out” feeling without the hassle.

 

Keep It Simple

Sometimes, the simplest recipes have the most mouth-watering results. Fewer ingredients mean less prep time, so you can spend more time with the people you love. Plus, you’ll be spending less money on groceries, but still making flavorful meals! It’s a win all around.

 

Beef Jerky Burger Sliders

Finished image of Beef Jerky Burger Sliders Wondering what to make? Try these Beef Jerky Burger Sliders. There is actual beef jerky in these juicy burgers, which sets them apart from your usual recipe. A little salt and pepper, some melted cheese, garlic mayonnaise, and fresh salad greens round out the dish.


 

Chicken and Bacon Shish Kabobs

Finished image of Chicken and Bacon Shish Kabobs If chicken is more your style, try these Chicken and Bacon Shish Kabobs. Honey, mushrooms, green onions, and pineapple give this dish a sweet and savory appeal. Of course, everybody’s favorite part are those little charred pieces on the edges of the kabobs – you know the ones! Make extras because your family will definitely want seconds.


 

Surf and Turf Griddle Nachos

Finished image of Surf and Turf Griddle Nachos Upscale nachos, anyone? Surf and Turf Griddle Nachos put a new twist on an old favorite. Shrimp and steak elevate this dish to a restaurant-worthy level, but frozen waffle fries and queso make it easy! Topped with fresh pico de gallo, this recipe is sure to be a hit.


 

BLT Bruschetta

Finished image of BLT Bruschetta The full, fresh flavors of Italy fill this next dish. BLT Bruschetta combines crispy grilled French baguettes with the salty crunch of bacon and lettuce. A little balsamic vinaigrette dressing and grated parmesan cheese are sure to get a chef’s seal of approval.


 

Beef, Onion and Pepper Pizza

Finished image of Beef, Onion and Pepper Pizza If pizza is a big winner in your family, listen up. Beef, Onion and Pepper Pizza combines some classic flavors and cooks up quickly. Pre-baked pizza crust is a real time saver here, and a pizza stone really helps the pizza crust crisp up. You’ll get that “fresh from the brick oven” taste – without the brick oven!


 

Cheesy Chorizo Zucchini Boats

Finished image of Cheesy Chorizo Zucchini Boats If you’re trying to limit your carbs, this recipe is for you. Cheesy Chorizo Zucchini Boats are just the ticket. They’re packed with Tex Mex flavors and covered in ooey, gooey American cheese. This recipe is also a great way to get kids to eat their veggies. Between the kid-friendly cheese and corn, they’re sure to try a bite or two of zucchini, too. It’s a weeknight victory!


 

Share the Joy

No matter what you decide to grill on a weeknight, we want to see your creations! Our customers are some of our biggest inspirations. Whether you’re making your signature burger recipe or perfecting grilled corn on the cob, share them with us on social media. Simply tag us and use the hashtag #NotJustPropane for a chance to be featured on one of our social channels. We can’t wait to see what you make! Happy grilling, and thanks for letting Blue Rhino be a part of your backyard memories all year long.



Published: 2024.04.18

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