There’s nothing like gathering with friends and family around a sizzling grill, enjoying the wafting smell of perfectly cooked food, basking in the warm summer sun. Hosting the ultimate summer barbeque not only brings people together but also allows you to showcase your culinary skills.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through crucial steps, such as mastering grilling techniques and creating the perfect cocktails, that ensure your barbeque is a hit with all attendees this year.
How to Have the Ultimate Barbeque This Summer
Once the temperature starts to rise, so does the eagerness to start your barbeque and bring out the cocktails. Here’s how to have the ultimate barbeque this summer, wherever you live.
1. Plan Your Guest List
First things first, decide on who you want at your barbeque. Invite friends, family, neighbors, or co-workers that can bring positivity and good vibes to ensure a memorable event. If you’re running a charity event or you’re new to the neighborhood, invite everyone that you can.
2. Choose the Perfect Location
If you have a backyard, great! If not, research parks or even beach spots that permit barbeques for an idyllic summer setting. You may need to take out a permit or rent the space out for the entire day, so consider overall costs. Also, think about if the location is easy to access.
3. Create a Mouth-Watering Menu
Variety is key. Think of different meats (sausages, steaks, chicken), seafood options for pescatarian guests, and vegetarian or vegan alternatives as well. Remember to consider dietary preferences and allergies because you’ll want everyone you invite to enjoy your barbeque!
4. Bring Out the Beers and Cocktails
You can’t have a hopping barbeque without some beer and cocktails! Speaking of hops, you should elevate your beer with dry hopping methods by adding extra hop flowers after brewing has finished. Or, you could mix some cocktails at your bar that are fruity and delicious.
5. Amp Up Your Side Dishes Game
Include classics like corn on the cob and coleslaw but don’t be afraid to experiment with creative summer salads—think quinoa with roasted veggies or a refreshing watermelon-feta salad. Or, you could add some starches to fill your attendees up, such as potatoes, rice, or beans.
6. Master Perfect Grilling Techniques
Do some research beforehand on how to properly grill each type of meat or dish in order to impress your guests with those delicious grill marks and smoky flavors. While grilling seems straightforward, it’s a lot harder than you think, especially when you’re working with steak.
7. Make Sure There’s Entertainment
Besides great food and drinks, keep everyone engaged by having facilities for some fun lawn games such as bocce ball, cornhole, or horseshoes. If you’re inviting children, give them a space inside where they can mingle. This can also separate them from the adults, if necessary.
8. Create a Chill Atmosphere
Invest in outdoor lights (strong bulbs if it’s an evening gathering) for perfect ambiance. Play easygoing background tunes that contribute to the relaxed vibe. If you want to relax the mind as well as the muscles, consider serving a bottle of red wine at the end of your fabulous barbeque.
9. Keep Insects at Bay
Pool together insect-repelling candles, sprays, or plants to ensure you and your guests’ comfort throughout the gathering. Keep insect spray around and available for guests just in case a swarm suddenly decides to show up. Or, you could put mosquito netting on your patio.
10. Don’t Forget About Dessert
Finish off with crowd-pleasing favorites such as ice cream or s’mores. If you’re feeling ambitious, try making grilled fruit. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds an extra touch of summer flair. On the other hand, you could finish the night with a specialty cocktail or drink.
About the author
Cathy is one of blacktialnyc.com founders. As an owner of multiple bars in the last 17 years, Cathy brings her experience into her writings, to educate our tasty readers.
