Dried Fruit at a BBQ? 3 Game-Changing Ways to Use It
We know what you’re thinking: dried fruit… at a BBQ? But hear us out. These summertime cookouts are full of smoky, savory, and salty flavor—and dried fruit adds just the right contrast to make it all sing. A little sweet, a little unexpected, and (dare we say) totally essential.
Here are three game-changing ways to use Mariani dried fruit at your next BBQ. We’ve tried them in our own kitchens and backyard grills—and now we can’t imagine summer without them.
1. Sweet-and-Smoky Sauces with Mariani Raisins or Cherries
Raisins bring depth and rich sweetness to homemade BBQ sauces, and once you try them, there’s no going back. They blend beautifully into tomato-based sauces or even a vinegar-based sauce, and melt in for a thick, rich finish that balances out all the tang and heat.
Looking for something with a twist? Try this Dried Cherry and Chipotle BBQ Sauce—it’s smoky, bold, and packed with layers of sweet heat. We love basting it on grilled veggies or brushing it over ribs right before serving.
2. Grilled Skewers with Mariani Prunes or Dates
Prunes and dates hold their shape beautifully on the grill and pair well with other skewer staples like bell peppers, onions, or halloumi. Alternate pieces of Mariani Prunes or Dates with your favorite grill-friendly veggies and brush lightly with olive oil or a honey-balsamic glaze.
The result? A warm, savory-sweet combo with rich, jammy bites of dried fruit that play surprisingly well alongside your mains. Serve as a side dish or light summer appetizer. Bonus points if you finish with fresh herbs or flaky salt.
3. Dried Fruit Salsas with Cherries or Strawberries
We love a good fruit salsa as a side or topper at summer cookouts. Try this Dried Cherry Salsa for a mix of sweet, tangy, and a little kick—perfect with grilled chicken or fish.
You can also make a vibrant salsa with chopped sweetened dried strawberries, fresh tomatoes, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. It’s colorful, unexpected, and a fun way to bring something new to the picnic table.
Bonus BBQ Sprinkle: Mariani Toppers
Add a little crunch, a little color, and a whole lot of flavor with Mariani Toppers. These fruit and seed blends are our go-to finishing move for summer salads, grain bowls, and slaws.
At our cookouts, they’ve become a secret weapon for transforming simple sides into standout dishes. We love them over grilled corn salads, cabbage slaws, or anything that could use a pop of sweetness and crunch. Try them in this Chickpea Chopped Salad or in something fresh and fruity like Strawberry Caprese Salad Jars.
They’re easy to sprinkle, hard to forget, and your guests will definitely be asking, "What did you put in this?"
Dried fruit might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of BBQs, but once you try it, you'll be looking for ways to use it all summer long. It brings contrast, depth, and just enough surprise to keep things interesting—whether you're grilling for two or hosting the whole neighborhood.
We’ve been experimenting with dried fruit at our family cookouts for years now, and we can say with confidence: it belongs at the table. And the best part? It’s easy, flavorful, and already in the pantry.
From our family cookouts to yours, happy grilling!
