Anything Goes!

Each grilling season traditional cuisines, like hamburgers and hot dogs, rule the day. However, don't forget that there are many other ways to liven up your grill.

"While I love the summertime grill favorites as much as the next person, anything goes on the grill these days — from meatballs to pineapple to pancakes," says Joan Hanson, test kitchen director for Hormel Foods. "It's time to add some unexpected foods to your flame."

If you're looking to expand your palate when it comes to grilling, look no further than the following tips:

• Introduce bacon to the grill. Tradition states that bacon is typically a breakfast side. But what about other meals? No longer does bacon have to be cooked by itself on the stovetop or in the microwave. Bacon is fast becoming the unlikely go-to ingredient to pair with a variety of foods such as ice cream, chocolate and even alcohol. Instead, bring this savory trend to the grill this summer. It can make for a tasty accompaniment to any meal.

• Think outside the (pizza) box. When pizza is on the menu, it's sure to satisfy the whole family — especially when it's cooked on the grill. To get that crisp wood-fired taste, try pizza paninis — all you need are bread, pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, mozzarella cheese and any variety of meats and vegetables that fit each person's tastes. You can even make a unique combination of barbecue chicken or pork with shredded meat, red onion and cheddar. Or put out a variety of veggies, meats and cheese, and people can create their own personal pizza.

• Import island flavors into your home. Bring home the love affair of the south seas and Hawaii with inspired cuisine, such as teriyaki and pineapple, which offer island-inspired flavors.

Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Corn

Remove husks and silk from corn. Rinse corn; pat dry. Cut each of 15 wooden picks in half.

Use 1 wooden pick to secure first piece bacon at top of 1 ear corn; wrap bacon in spiral to center of corn. Place end of second piece bacon on top of end of first piece; secure with wooden pick. Continue wrapping second piece bacon around corn; fasten end with wooden pick. Repeat with remaining bacon and corn.

Prepare grill for medium-hot coals. Coat bacon-wrapped corn with cooking spray.

Grill corn, turning frequently, 5 to 10 minutes or until corn is golden brown and bacon is crisp.

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