Summer gatherings just got a flavorful upgrade! In this post, you’ll learn how to use essential oils to take your BBQ to the next level—from infusing meats with bold, citrusy marinades to elevating sides with fresh herb flavors and even adding a hint of zest to your favorite desserts. Whether you’re grilling by the pool or hosting a backyard picnic, these recipes and tips will help you create memorable dishes that are simple, delicious, and packed with natural goodness. Let’s dive into a summer menu that’s anything but ordinary!
🍹 doTERRA Essential Oil–Enhanced Recipes
These direct links take you to doTERRA’s recipe pages:
- Honey Lime Chicken Wings (Lime essential oil marinade)
View the recipe here: BBQ Recipes with Essential Oils - Easy Blender Salsa (Lime & Cilantro oils)
Also in the BBQ Recipes with Essential Oils article - Grilled Chicken Marinade (Summer Savory oil)
Check it out: Grilled Chicken Marinade - Zucchini Tomato Basil Salad with Basil & Lemon essential oils
Full recipe: Zucchini Tomato Basil Salad - Grilled Corn brushed with Lime essential oil, butter, and spices
See the details: Grilled Corn
🎉 Bonus from doTERRA Summer Essential Oil Use
- Layered 4th of July Parfait (Lemon essential oil)
Included in Summer Recipe Fun with Essential Oils - Blueberry Watermelon Summer Water (Lemon essential oil)
Also featured in the same post - Patriotic Fruit Pizza topped with Lemon essential oil–enhanced cream cheese
Beyond Food Is Art Recipes
- Cole Slaw – Perfect for your summer cookouts.
- Sunshine Crispy Treat – Summer Treat.
- Ham and Herb Cheese Ball – Perfect for a party appetizer.
- Gluten Free Lemon Squares – Lemon Squares are a family favorite. These are amazing, whether you are gluten-free or not.
Basic Vinaigrette Base:
- 1 cup vinegar: Choose your preferred vinegar (e.g., balsamic, red wine, apple cider, rice wine).
- 1 cup Extra Virgin
Instructions:
- Combine the vinegar and oil in a glass jar.
- Whisk or shake vigorously to combine.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Essential Oils
- Add slowly: Start with a toothpick dipped in the diluted essential oil mixture and stirred into the vinaigrette. Taste and add more if needed, but remember to use very small amounts.
- Mix thoroughly: Ensure the essential oil is well dispersed within the vinaigrette.
- Only use doTERRA essential oils that are explicitly labeled as safe for internal use.
- Store in the refrigerator up to one month.
🎉 Final Tips
- Prep ahead: Many dishes (dips, salads, flavored water) come together the day before—freeing up your hosting time.
- Balance is key: Combine hearty proteins with fresh veggie sides and citrusy drinks for a crowd-pleasing spread.
- Elevate with essential oils: A drop of citrus, herb, or spice oil can layer in flavor or garnish beverages in a unique way—observe safety guidelines.
By merging colorful crowd-pleasers, DIY essential-oil flair, and smart prep, you’ll host a stress-free—and delicious—summer event that guests will love. Ready to let the good times (and great flavors) roll?
Beyond Possibilities 