….and sides to take when you’re invited to your friends’ BBQ!
A backyard BBQ is a great way to spend time with friends and family and enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable BBQ that everyone will remember. Here are 12 tips for planning a successful backyard BBQ:
- Choose a date and time: Choose a date and time that works for you and your guests, taking into account factors such as weather and availability.
- Invite guests: Invite your guests in advance to give them time to plan and make any necessary arrangements. Consider sending out invitations or using an online tool to manage RSVPs.
- Make a grocery list: Make a list of all the food and drinks you’ll need for the BBQ, including the main course, side dishes, and desserts. Don’t forget to consider any dietary restrictions your guests may have.
- Prep the grill: Clean and preheat the grill before cooking to ensure that it’s ready to go when you are. Make sure to have enough propane or charcoal, and consider using a grill cover to protect it from the elements.
- Set up the backyard: Set up tables, chairs, and any other outdoor furniture you’ll need for the BBQ. Consider adding decorations or outdoor games to add to the atmosphere.
- Prepare the side dishes: Prepare any side dishes you’ll be serving in advance to save time and ensure that everything is ready when it’s time to eat. Some popular BBQ side dishes include potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans.
- Set up a bar: Consider setting up a bar area with a variety of drinks, including soda, water, beer, and wine. Don’t forget to have plenty of ice on hand to keep the drinks cold.
- Plan for leftovers: Make sure to have enough food and drinks to feed your guests, but also plan for leftovers to avoid waste. Consider using disposable containers or asking guests to bring their own containers to take home any leftovers.
- Consider the weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Have a backup plan in case of rain, such as setting up a tent or moving the BBQ indoors.
- Keep it clean: Make sure to clean up after the BBQ to keep your backyard looking nice. Consider using biodegradable or environmentally-friendly products to minimize your impact on the environment.
- Don’t forget the dessert: Don’t forget to plan for dessert! Some popular BBQ desserts include fruit skewers, s’mores, and ice cream.
- Have fun: Above all, have fun and enjoy the time with your friends and family. A successful BBQ is all about creating lasting memories and having a good time.
If you’re invited to a BBQ, you may be asked to bring a side dish to share. Here are a few popular BBQ side dishes to consider:
- Pasta salad: Pasta salad is a classic BBQ side dish that’s easy to make and transport
- Grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious option for a BBQ. Consider grilling a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, and seasoning them with herbs or spices for added flavor.
- Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite and a perfect side dish for a BBQ. You can grill the corn in its husks or remove the husks and grill it directly. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
- Baked beans: Baked beans are another classic BBQ side dish that’s easy to prepare and transport. You can make them from scratch or use a store-bought variety. Either way, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
- Deviled eggs: Deviled eggs are a tasty and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for a BBQ. All you need is some hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and a few other ingredients to make this tasty treat.
- Watermelon salad: Watermelon salad is a refreshing and healthy option for a BBQ. Simply slice up some watermelon, add some feta cheese and mint, and toss it all together for a delicious and refreshing side dish.
- Grilled potato wedges: Grilled potato wedges are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish for a BBQ. Simply slice some potatoes into wedges, toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and grill until they’re tender and crispy.
- Coleslaw: Coleslaw is a classic BBQ side dish that’s easy to make and transport. Simply shred some cabbage and carrots, toss them with a mayonnaise-based dressing, and add any additional ingredients you like, such as diced onion or raisins.
In conclusion, a backyard BBQ is a great way to spend time with friends and family and enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable BBQ that everyone will remember. Consider choosing a date and time, inviting guests, making a grocery list, preparing the grill and backyard, preparing the side dishes, setting up a bar, planning for leftovers, considering the weather, keeping it clean, and having fun. If you’re invited to a BBQ, you may be asked to bring a side dish to share. Some popular options include pasta salad, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, baked beans, deviled eggs, watermelon salad, grilled potato wedges, and coleslaw. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a successful and enjoyable backyard BBQ!