CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Memorial Day weekend often means burgers, hot dogs, and ribs sizzling on backyard grills. But Ernie Adler of Erniee’s BBQ (Ernieesbbq.com) is inspiring grillers to rethink tradition. This year, he’s serving up an unexpected twist—grilled fruit and desserts that turn the grill into a full-course experience.
Adler, known for his creative flair, says Memorial Day is the perfect time to experiment. “Grilling doesn’t always have to be protein,” he explains. “You can bring out incredible flavors in fruit when you give it a little smoke and heat.”
One standout from Adler’s lineup is his grilled watermelon, transformed into a refreshing watermelon feta salad. Light char marks caramelize the natural sugars in the fruit, adding a subtle smokiness. “People are always surprised,” Adler says. “They taste it and say, ‘This isn’t even the same watermelon.’ The grill gives it depth you just can’t get any other way.”…