The following tips will help you to plan the perfect BBQ party.
A Relaxed Atmosphere
BBQs are a time for family and friends to gather in the back yard, enjoy the weather, chat, have a cold drink, and let the kids play. Don’t get caught up in the little details. There’s no need for name tags or set seating, and no reason to get out the fancy China . When it comes to a BBQ, paper plates are just as good – and they save you from doing any washing up! Just let everyone relax, choose what they want to eat, where they want to sit, and you can simply revel in their joy.
Great Food
A BBQ is nothing without great food and there are so many options available, you may have a hard time deciding! Here are some of our top choices:
Southern Style: A great southern style barbecue includes entrees, sides, dessert and the mains – with something to suit all palettes. Ideal meat options include pulled pork, smoked ribs, beef brisket, turkey legs and chicken wings; while the perfect southern sides are baked beans, mac and cheese, collard greens, okra and of course, French fries.
Hawaiian Luau: A luau is nothing without a whole roasted pig and Waikiki chicken! Include some coconut rice, stir fry veggies, Hawaiian meatballs, shrimp and crab cakes, and you’re onto a winning combination. Don’t forget dessert either, with coconut ice cream, tropical fruit salad and Key Lime Pie.
Traditional: Traditional barbecues are easy and offer a simple array of delicious treats, including hot dogs and hamburgers, grilled chicken and sausages. You can add some class with a rack of lamb, beef ribs and pulled pork; and add a tasty slaw and potato salad to the side, with apple pie and fruit salad for dessert. Simple, yet delicious.
Seafood: Treat the seafood lovers in your group of family and friends with a seafood themed barbecue! From calamari salad, crab cakes, and roasted clams as a starter, to oysters, shrimp and crab claws; topped off with delicious cookies and fresh fruit for dessert – it’s the perfect summer feast.
Planning Ahead
The following tips could help you enjoy the day much better:
- Pre-prep the food before your guests arrive so that you don’t have to spend the entire day in the kitchen, while your friends and family are enjoying the beautiful sunshine outside.
- Check that you have everything you need for the BBQ to work – this includes ensuring you have enough gas to cook, and the right tools for the type of food you’re including. Tongs and forks, knives and skewers will all come in handy.
- If you’re including snacks, keep these away from the main serving table and far from the barbecue. Put them onto another table and let people nibble, AWAY from the barbecue itself – give yourself some space.
- Finally, don’t forget the drinks. Ensure you have both kid-friendly drinks and alcoholic drinks if appropriate. Keep the BBQ away from your main fridge by having tubs filled with ice and drinks out back, or a cooler box. Make sure you have variety – fruit juice and water bottles, as well as beer, wine and other treats.
Remember, BBQs are designed to allow people to relax – so let them do so and worry about the mess and leftovers after they leave.