How to Have a Successful Summer Barbecue

It’s now May, which means ‘tis the season of epic summer barbecues, a tradition pretty much everyone loves. I mean what’s a better way to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend and the start of summer than gathering friends and family for a casual, sunny, backyard picnic involving burgers, beers and memories?

Start off the summer with a bang and be sure the first BBQ of the season is done right. While they are awesome by nature, they don’t need to be fancy. Read our tips on how to successfully throw a summer BBQ.

Keep It Simple

The key to a great barbeque is to keep it casual. Don’t go overboard on the menu; focus on a few tried-and-true recipes. Think quality, not quantity. Make sure you have one or two meat-oriented meals like hamburgers and hot dogs, a veggie option like roasted veggie skewers, fixings and a salad or two.

Be Smart During Set-Up

Set up two tables, one for dining and one for food and drinks. Guests serve themselves. Stack plates and pre-rolled silverware at each end to prevent traffic jams. All toppings like mustard and ketchup go on another table.

Reinvent the Home Bar

To make the bar easy, don’t offer drinks that call for mixers. Near the tub of beverages, set a colored tray with glasses, bottle openers and cloth napkins. Pick a signature drink and add a twist to the classic lemonade, or add a refreshing sangria option.

Be a Grill Master

Start with a clean, oiled grill to keep food from sticking. Preheat the grill, give it a scrub with a grill brush and then brush it with vegetable oil. Avoid turning meats frequently, they really only need one flip. Once the meats are grilled, let them rest for a few minutes on a warm plate tented with foil.

Provide Entertainment Options

It’s always a good idea to have entertainment. Create a playlist the night before. Make sure you have classic backyard games like horseshoes or badminton. If you have a pool, make sure it’s clean and you set aside a few extra towels.

Prep for the Ending

For those guests who linger a bit too long, send them home with food so you’re not stuck with five days of leftovers.

What are you grilling, sipping and celebrating this Memorial Day?