This week at Helton Tool & Home, we’re taking a closer look at all the activities we can squeeze into the last month of summer. In most parts of the country, this time of year is the summer-ending sweet spot between it being warm enough (but not too warm) outside to enjoy the activities we didn’t make time to enjoy during June and July. The first of these activities is good ol’ grilling.

Whether you had the grill going every night for the last two months or if you’ve been straight up avoiding it on account of the heat outside, early September is the perfect time for heading out of doors to cook your dinners. Not only is the weather more a-grill-able than in mid-summer, but the offerings at your local farmer’s market can open a world of flavor and adventure that simply can’t be found in late May. For this reason, we have rounded up 6 late-summer grilling recipes that are sure to wow the tastebuds of everyone who stops by your backyard this time of year.

We’ll start with this relatively simple recipe for grilling artichokes. While you still have to cook them in water before you get to the grilling, we love that the choke is removed altogether before serving. Green Goddess dressing dances beautifully with the charred flavor of the artichoke in this recipe from Bobby Flay. 

While there are LOTS of recipes for grilled corn available at the Foodie Crush blog, we’re especially drawn to the Grilled Corn and Pasilla Pepper Salad. It’s a delicious and unique break from the traditional salads you’d find at a backyard barbecue.

For those looking for a traditional burger recipe, you won’t find it here. However, you will want to check out this unique peach-and-Portobello mushroom burger. Talk about freshness and flavor! 

Another untraditional approach to a traditional meal (and popular tailgating snack) can be found in this recipe for Grilled Eggplant Parmesan Nachos. We think these deliciously unique toppings will capture the attention of anyone and everyone to whom you serve these cheesy chips. 

It might not be a backyard barbecue without grilled chicken. We’re especially liking the fresh watermelon salsa that goes with this jerk chicken recipe. 

Just like it’s not a cook out without burgers and chicken, it might not feel much like one with this funky-fresh fig pizza heating up on the grill. However, you won’t want to miss the sweet and salty flavors provided by the delicate grilled figs and powerful cheeses utilized in this one.

Whether you plan on sticking with traditional or trying something from left field, we hope these unique late summer grilling recipes will spice up the experience. Don’t forget, Helton Tool & Home has you covered with plenty of items to make your grilling experience even easier and more fun, like this 3-piece BBQ set with a magnetic light and individual steak thermometers!

Let us know in the comments which of these 6 recipes sounds most delicious to you, and be sure to share!