Catch the moment: grilling season is here

Spring has a way of waking everything up – including our grills.

A great line from “Northern Exposure” has Chris Stevens musing, “It’s not what you fling, but the fling itself.” I like to think the same applies to grilling. It’s not just what you grill – it’s the act of grilling.

The season is here. People are moving a little quicker, breathing a little deeper and shaking off winter. Covers are coming off grills, garages are opening up and just like that, we’re back.

The only challenge? This roller-coaster weather. One day it’s 48 and raining, the next it’s sunny and pushing 80. So stay ready. Keep your essentials on hand so when the moment hits, you can fire things up without missing a beat.

Chicken breasts are a great freezer staple – quick to thaw and perfect for something like chili-lime kebabs. Easy, fast, healthy and a natural fit as we inch toward Cinco de Mayo.

Salmon is another weeknight hero. On the grill, it develops that perfect crispy skin without needing much else. Simple and satisfying.

But let’s be honest – beef is where my heart lives.

If the weather cooperates, I’ll swing by Keller Meats for a great cut, bring it home, season it simply and let the grill do the work. Around our house, the debate is always the same: what’s your cut?

Growing up, my dad would treat me to T-bones on Boy Scout camping trips, so that was my early favorite. Over time, tastes evolve. My wife and I lean toward filet mignon – yes, I know, a controversial pick among steak purists. My boys? They’re firmly in the ribeye and strip camp.

Lately, I’ve developed a real appreciation for flank and flat iron steaks. They’re incredibly flavorful, though they do benefit from a marinade, which takes away a bit of that spur-of-the-moment grilling magic.

No matter what’s on the grates, don’t skip the vegetables. Onions, peppers, mushrooms, asparagus – throw them in a grill wok with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, and let the flame work its magic.

As Ferris Bueller famously said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Grilling season is one of those moments worth slowing down for. Get outside, fire it up and enjoy the spring air. It’s good for the soul – and not bad for the appetite, either.

As always, eat fresh, dine local and be happy.