7 “Bonfire-Ready” Skewers That Aren’t Chicken

Lag BaOmer is officially around the corner! It’s that time of year when we trade our dining room tables for lawn chairs and our ovens for the open flame. There is nothing like the energy of a bonfire—the singing, the stories, and that smoky aroma that stays in your favorite sweater for a week.

But let’s talk food. While chicken is great, we can do so much better than just another tray of wings! This year, I’m shaking things up with Bonfire-Ready foods.

Now, a little Jamie-style “keep it real” moment: Not every dish belongs in the fire (we don’t want your beautiful fruit melting into the logs!), but they are all designed to be portable, fun, and perfect for outdoor eating.

1

The Crowd-Pleaser: Kofta Kebabs

If you want that authentic Israeli grill-house vibe, Kofta is your answer. It’s a mix of ground beef and lamb with tons of fresh parsley and warm spices. The secret? Grating the onion so the meat stays incredibly moist even over an open flame. It’s like a hug on a stick if you choose to use one.

Check out this recipe

2

The Gourmet Move: Lamb & Vegetable Skewers

Want to feel fancy while sitting on a log? These Lamb and Vegetable Skewers are it. We’re pairing tender cubes of lamb with charred peppers and onions. If you’re at home, serve them over my favorite green couscous, but at the bonfire, they’re perfect just as they are.

Check out this recipe

3

The “Help Yourself” Platter: Kefta Kebab Veggie Platter

I’m all about assembly-line eating. This Kefta Kebab Platter is great because you can prep the components ahead of time and let everyone grab what they love. It’s colorful, healthy, and keeps the “I don’t like onions” crowd happy!

Check out this recipe

4

The Rainbow: Veggie Skewers with Green Goddess Dip

Not everything has to be hot! These cold veggie skewers are crisp, refreshing, and—most importantly—easy to hold with one hand. The Green Goddess dip is so good, you might want to double the batch. Trust me.

Check out this recipe

5

The Sweet Sparkle: Mini Star of David Fruit Skewers

How cute are these for the holiday? Since these are fruit-based with a delicate cashew cream, keep them in the cooler until you're ready for dessert. They provide a much-needed burst of freshness after all that smoky BBQ.

Check out this recipe

6

The Salty-Sweet Crunch: Gluten-Free Potato Chip S’mores

Yes, you read that right. We’re swapping the graham cracker for a salty potato chip. It’s that salty-sweet combo that is totally addictive. Toast your marshmallow over the fire, sandwich it between two chips, and prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out this recipe

7

The Unexpected Twist: Sweet Potato S’mores

If you’ve already got sweet potatoes wrapped in foil and roasting in the coals (a Lag BaOmer classic!), why not turn them into dessert? Follow the full recipe or simply top a roasted slice with chocolate and a toasted marshmallow for a gooey, warm treat.

Check out this recipe

Jamie’s Bonfire Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before hitting the fire so they don’t turn into kindling!

Wishing you all a glowing, delicious, and safe Lag BaOmer. Now go get grilling!