Preparing the Kabobs

• 1

  Cut the kabob ingredients into bite-sized pieces. Meats and poultry work best in 1 1/2 to 2-inch cubes. Leave the stems on mushrooms, slicing off the dried or cracked stem end. Cut soft-centered vegetables, such as zucchini or crook-neck squash, into 1-inch thick slices.

• 2

  Separate the ingredients, especially meats and poultry, into separate bowls or zip-lock bags to prevent cross-contamination.

• 3

  Pour marinade over the meats, and let them marinate approximately two to four hours in the refrigerator. Meat, poultry and seafood should be marinated in air-tight containers or sealed plastic bags.

• 4

  Toss the vegetables with oil and seasonings. If you are using potatoes or sweet potatoes, soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes before adding the oil and seasonings.

• 5

  Thread the prepared ingredients on the skewers. Rather than pushing the food onto the skewer, place the pieces on a flat surface and slide the skewer through the center of the cubes or chunks. Begin with the stem end first when skewering whole mushrooms. Leave approximately half an inch between each piece of food to provide the maximum cooking surface.

Preparing the Grill

• 1

  Make sure the grill grate is clean and free of debris. Use a stiff brush to remove any dirt or cooked food.

• 2

  Light the gas grill according to the manufacturer's directions.

• 3

  Preheat the gas grill to the desired temperature. The rule of thumb is that thinner pieces of food cook at a higher temperature. Beef chunks, for example, will grill on medium-high heat, while pineapple spears need high heat.

Grilling the Kabobs

• 1

  Place the kabobs on the grill. Position the skewers across two bricks so the food does not rest directly on the grate. This allows air to circulate around the food for more even cooking.

• 2

  Lower the grill lid and cook the skewers on all sides, turning them a quarter-turn every two minutes. Most foods will cook in approximately eight to 12 minutes, depending upon the thickness of the cut and the desired level of doneness.

• 3

  When the kabobs are cooked to the desired doneness, remove them from the grill. Wrap the kabobs in aluminum foil and allow them to rest for two or three minutes. Serve kabobs with a selection of dips or sauces to enhance their flavor.