There’s no better way to enjoy the freedom of summer than a big barbecue or cookout! Anyone can throw a memorable BBQ bash, just keep these simple tips in mind:
If you’re grilling with charcoal, light the fire early enough to allow the coals to cook down to the perfect temperature. Give it about 45 minutes (25 for a gas grill) to achieve optimum heat. You want to hear a nice sizzle when the meat hits the grill! Have some snacks available for guests to nibble on while the grill cooks down.
Vegetable and meat skewers are always a great choice for outdoor parties. They’re colorful, packed with flavor, and a cinch to clean up. Experiment with classic combos like beef, tomato, and onion, and out-of-the-box ideas like ham, pineapple, and teriyaki glaze. You can even set up a buffet of skewer ingredients and let guests build their own!
Stagger your purchasing: things like plasticware, paper plates, mayonnaise, and other items can be bought well in advance when there’s a sale. Anything that doesn’t need to be stored in the refrigerator and won’t spoil can be bought near the beginning of the summer. Holidays are often good times to look for sales. Wait until a day or two before the party to buy your fresh produce and meat.
Make ice cubes out of fruit juice for a colorful addition to drinks. Cherry and grape juice provide rich colors, while lemonade ice cubes can add a tangy zip to your drink. And kids will love watching their drinks turn different colors as the ice melts!
If there are children at the event, make sure there are age-appropriate games and entertainment: frisbees, water guns/balloons, and kites are all simple, fun ideas. A tub of cheap popsicles is sure to be a hit for all ages.
Summer nights are glorious: enjoy the evening by putting up paper lanterns or strings of lights. The spots of warm light create the perfect atmosphere.
Have a good one and let me know if you need anything.
