Summer vacations and gatherings are a beloved tradition for many, but you don’t always need a beach to have a great time. Why not host a BBQ party instead? It’s simple, fun, and brings people together in the best way. Not sure where to start? This guide has you covered with some of the best summer BBQ ideas to help you plan the perfect outdoor hangout with your loved ones.
Key Takeaways
- Grilled burgers, hot dogs, and veggies are affordable and crowd-pleasing.
- Grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, flank steak, and pulled pork are the best mains for a summer BBQ gathering.
- Potato salad, coleslaw, grilled corn, and pasta salad are the most popular and easy-to-prep sides.
- No-bake cheesecake cups, chilled pies, and ice cream sandwiches for desserts are perfect for the hot weather.
- Clustered seating, string lights, and a 3-part music playlist are quick ways to set up a relaxed venue.
- Start your grill 30 minutes before guests arrive, and prepare 1.5x of the food you think you need.
Why Summer BBQs Are Perfect for Easy Gatherings?
Most families and friend groups love to spend time together during the summer. They even top it off with some BBQ. Aside from wanting to bond, here are more reasons why summer BBQs are the best for gatherings:
They’re Budget-Friendly
BBQs don’t have to revolve around ribs and steaks every time. Grilled burgers, hot dogs, and veggies are equally delicious options that are much more budget-friendly, especially when you’re cooking for a crowd. Best of all, there’s something for everyone, whether they’re devoted meat lovers or committed vegetarians.
They’re Casual and Cozy
BBQ is all about the outdoors, and that’s what makes it so special. The open-air setting creates a naturally relaxed atmosphere where guests can move freely, mingle, or simply enjoy their own space. No formal tables or seating arrangements needed, which also makes it easier to keep your menu budget-friendly. And with no dress code to worry about, everyone can show up feeling comfortable and at ease.
Everyone Can Potluck
Most of the time, guests are expected to bring something to a BBQ hangout. This makes the menu more flexible. You can accommodate different dietary preferences more easily.
Easy Entertainment
The grill itself is a natural focal point and conversation starter. Beyond that, outdoor games like volleyball or cornhole are an effortless way to keep guests entertained without any extra effort. The open space of an outdoor setting gives both kids and adults room to move, play, and have fun. You can even set up an inflatable pool to cool things down on a hot summer day.
You Only Need Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Food
Barbecue food has universal appeal, and it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily scale things up or down depending on the occasion, and many classic sides like salads and desserts can be prepared ahead of time. No elaborate planning or formal menu presentation required.
How to Plan a Simple Summer BBQ Party?
Ready to host a relaxed, stress-free BBQ party? These tips will help you pull it off effortlessly:
Choose a Menu That Is Easy to Prepare
A BBQ menu is simple by nature, but if you’re new to hosting a BBQ spread, it’s best to start with what’s easy to prepare and cook. For the mains, choose proteins you can marinate ahead and throw on the grill with minimal effort. For the sides, stick to make-ahead friendly options that free up your time. And for drinks and desserts, go for light, refreshing choices that help beat the summer heat.
Prep Ingredients Before Guests Arrive
Get a head start on your prep well before the first guests arrive. Marinate your meats, chop your veggies, slice your fruits, and assemble your salads in advance. If you’re serving grilled skewers, go ahead and thread the ingredients onto the sticks ahead of time. Dips like guacamole or hummus can even be made the day before. And don’t forget to chill the drinks a few hours early so everything is cold and ready to go.
Set Up Cooking and Serving Areas
Keep things organized and easy to navigate by setting up designated areas for cooking and serving. Position your grill and food tables in clearly defined spots so guests can help themselves without getting in the way of the cooking. This setup also helps keep kids safely away from the busier, heat-heavy zones when they want to run around and play.
Keep Seating and Shade Comfortable
There’s no need for formal tables and chairs like those at catered events, but do make sure guests have comfortable places to sit and enough surfaces to rest their plates on. This is especially important if kids are in the mix. Just as importantly, ensure these spots are shaded or covered, whether under a canopy, umbrella, or roof overhang. It’s summer, after all, and too much heat and direct sunlight can quickly put a damper on the fun.
Best Summer BBQ Main Dishes
At any BBQ party, meat takes center stage. Here are some of the best options to fire up this summer:
Grilled Chicken with Simple Marinade
Not everyone is a fan of red meat, and grilled chicken is a crowd-pleasing alternative that works for just about everyone. Kids love it, health-conscious guests appreciate it, and it’s a budget-friendlier option when cooking for a larger group. Best of all, grilled chicken is delicious on its own with the right marinade.
For a simple yet flavourful blend, mix oil, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. A quick soak in this marinade keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with a bright, savory flavour that’s perfect for summer grilling.
Juicy Beef Burgers with a Toppings Bar
Grilled burgers are a classic crowd-pleaser, especially for kids, and their casual nature makes them perfect for a weekday gathering. The cooking process is straightforward: grill the patties, lightly toast the buns, melt a slice of cheese on each patty as it finishes cooking, and sauté some onions on the side.
For the toppings, set up a self-serve station with options like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and cucumbers. Let your guests build their burgers just the way they like them. It’s a fun, interactive touch that naturally gets people moving around and mingling at the same time.
BBQ Ribs for Weekend Gatherings
Weekend BBQs give you the extra time needed to go all out, and nothing says summer cookout quite like a rack of Southern-style BBQ ribs. This classic recipe requires around 5 to 8 hours in the smoker, but with a little planning, it’s very manageable. Prep the meat the night before and start cooking a few hours before guests arrive so it’s ready right on time.
For the dry rub, combine paprika, black pepper, salt, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Add a touch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet finish. For the mop sauce, stir together vinegar, water, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, and use it to baste the ribs as they cook. In the final few minutes, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce for a rich, caramelized glaze that ties everything together.
Grilled Turkey Burgers
For guests who prefer a lighter option, turkey burgers are a great alternative to classic beef burgers. The key difference to keep in mind is that turkey has a milder natural flavour, so the patties need a little more seasoning to shine. Boost the flavour by mixing in soy sauce, fresh herbs, and sautéed onions directly into the meat. Also, keep a close eye on the grill, as turkey patties dry out more quickly than beef, so avoid overcooking them.
Marinated Flank Steak
If BBQ ribs feel like too much of a time commitment, flank steak is a fantastic alternative that delivers a similar bold, meaty flavour with far less effort. Simply marinate it at least 4 hours before grilling, then cook each side for just 4 to 5 minutes. It’s quick, satisfying, and pairs beautifully with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw or rice.
Pulled Pork Sandwich Filling
Pulled pork is another budget-friendly crowd-pleaser that’s hard to beat when cooking for a large group. A single batch can easily feed up to 50 people, making it one of the most practical choices for a big summer gathering. Unlike traditional BBQ ribs, it doesn’t require constant monitoring while it cooks, freeing you up to focus on other things. It’s also highly customizable, letting guests pair it with their choice of sauces, pickles, coleslaw, or even kimchi for a fun twist. As a bonus, pulled pork can be made ahead of time and simply reheated before serving.
Easy and Fresh BBQ Side Dishes
No BBQ spread is complete without the sides. Here are some of the best options to round out your summer gathering:
Grilled Corn on the Cob
The best part about corn on the cob is that it can go straight on the grill alongside your main dish with virtually no prep needed. The heat brings out a naturally smoky, fire-kissed flavour that pairs beautifully with burgers and steaks. For an extra touch, slather the cooked ears with garlic herb butter, or take it up a notch by turning them into elote, the beloved Mexican street corn topped with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
Classic Potato Salad
Creamy and cool, potato salad is the perfect counterbalance to the heat of your grilled mains and the summer weather alike. It’s also wonderfully inexpensive to make and can be prepared the day before and chilled, making it a stress-free addition to your spread. All you need are potatoes, eggs, mayo, celery, and sour cream as the base, then season simply with paprika, salt, and black pepper for a classic, crowd-pleasing finish.
Creamy Coleslaw
For a satisfying crunch, coleslaw is a staple summer BBQ side that never goes out of style. Its cool, tangy flavour provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky depth of grilled meats. It’s also one of the easiest sides to pull together and prep ahead of time. Simply shred your cabbage, toss it in your favorite dressing, and let it chill until ready to serve.
Fresh Garden Salad
For something lighter and more refreshing, a fresh garden salad is a welcome addition to any BBQ spread. It brings a boost of nutrition and crispness that balances out the heavier sides on the table. Since it’s made with raw ingredients, preparation is as simple as chopping everything in advance. Mix together cucumbers, lettuce, carrots, arugula, and even a handful of nuts for added texture. Its bright, clean flavours make it a natural pairing with any grilled meat, cutting through the richness and smokiness beautifully.
Pasta Salad with Simple Dressing
Pasta salad is another classic BBQ side that’s as easy to make as it is crowd-pleasing. Toss your pasta in a simple dressing, prep it ahead of time, and let it chill until ready to serve. Like other salads on the spread, it offers a refreshing contrast to the bold, smoky flavours of the grill. The best part is how versatile it is. Use any pasta shape and dressing you prefer, and feel free to mix in fresh veggies or chunks of mozzarella for an extra layer of flavour.
Soft Cornbread
For a touch of sweetness, cornbread is a wonderful addition to any BBQ spread. Its slightly sweet, buttery flavour provides a pleasant contrast to the bold, smoky intensity of grilled meats. It’s also quick and easy to make, simply mix a cornbread base with milk, then stir in a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. Bake in batches and you’ll have enough to keep a crowd well fed.
No BBQ spread is complete without the sides. Here are some of the best options to round out your summer gathering:
Grilled Corn on the Cob
The best part about corn on the cob is that it can go straight on the grill alongside your main dish with virtually no prep needed. The heat brings out a naturally smoky, fire-kissed flavour that pairs beautifully with burgers and steaks. For an extra touch, slather the cooked ears with garlic herb butter, or take it up a notch by turning them into elote, the beloved Mexican street corn topped with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
Classic Potato Salad
Creamy and cool, potato salad is the perfect counterbalance to the heat of your grilled mains and the summer weather alike. It’s also wonderfully inexpensive to make and can be prepared the day before and chilled, making it a stress-free addition to your spread. All you need are potatoes, eggs, mayo, celery, and sour cream as the base, then season simply with paprika, salt, and black pepper for a classic, crowd-pleasing finish.
Creamy Coleslaw
For a satisfying crunch, coleslaw is a staple summer BBQ side that never goes out of style. Its cool, tangy flavour provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky depth of grilled meats. It’s also one of the easiest sides to pull together and prep ahead of time. Simply shred your cabbage, toss it in your favorite dressing, and let it chill until ready to serve.
Fresh Garden Salad
For something lighter and more refreshing, a fresh garden salad is a welcome addition to any BBQ spread. It brings a boost of nutrition and crispness that balances out the heavier sides on the table. Since it’s made with raw ingredients, preparation is as simple as chopping everything in advance. Mix together cucumbers, lettuce, carrots, arugula, and even a handful of nuts for added texture. Its bright, clean flavours make it a natural pairing with any grilled meat, cutting through the richness and smokiness beautifully.
Pasta Salad with Simple Dressing
Pasta salad is another classic BBQ side that’s as easy to make as it is crowd-pleasing. Toss your pasta in a simple dressing, prep it ahead of time, and let it chill until ready to serve. Like other salads on the spread, it offers a refreshing contrast to the bold, smoky flavours of the grill. The best part is how versatile it is. Use any pasta shape and dressing you prefer, and feel free to mix in fresh veggies or chunks of mozzarella for an extra layer of flavour.
Soft Cornbread
For a touch of sweetness, cornbread is a wonderful addition to any BBQ spread. Its slightly sweet, buttery flavour provides a pleasant contrast to the bold, smoky intensity of grilled meats. It’s also quick and easy to make, simply mix a cornbread base with milk, then stir in a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. Bake in batches and you’ll have enough to keep a crowd well fed.
No BBQ spread is complete without the sides. Here are some of the best options to round out your summer gathering:
Grilled Corn on the Cob
The best part about corn on the cob is that it can go straight on the grill alongside your main dish with virtually no prep needed. The heat brings out a naturally smoky, fire-kissed flavour that pairs beautifully with burgers and steaks. For an extra touch, slather the cooked ears with garlic herb butter, or take it up a notch by turning them into elote, the beloved Mexican street corn topped with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
Classic Potato Salad
Creamy and cool, potato salad is the perfect counterbalance to the heat of your grilled mains and the summer weather alike. It’s also wonderfully inexpensive to make and can be prepared the day before and chilled, making it a stress-free addition to your spread. All you need are potatoes, eggs, mayo, celery, and sour cream as the base, then season simply with paprika, salt, and black pepper for a classic, crowd-pleasing finish.
Creamy Coleslaw
For a satisfying crunch, coleslaw is a staple summer BBQ side that never goes out of style. Its cool, tangy flavour provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky depth of grilled meats. It’s also one of the easiest sides to pull together and prep ahead of time. Simply shred your cabbage, toss it in your favorite dressing, and let it chill until ready to serve.
Fresh Garden Salad
For something lighter and more refreshing, a fresh garden salad is a welcome addition to any BBQ spread. It brings a boost of nutrition and crispness that balances out the heavier sides on the table. Since it’s made with raw ingredients, preparation is as simple as chopping everything in advance. Mix together cucumbers, lettuce, carrots, arugula, and even a handful of nuts for added texture. Its bright, clean flavours make it a natural pairing with any grilled meat, cutting through the richness and smokiness beautifully.
Pasta Salad with Simple Dressing
Pasta salad is another classic BBQ side that’s as easy to make as it is crowd-pleasing. Toss your pasta in a simple dressing, prep it ahead of time, and let it chill until ready to serve. Like other salads on the spread, it offers a refreshing contrast to the bold, smoky flavours of the grill. The best part is how versatile it is. Use any pasta shape and dressing you prefer, and feel free to mix in fresh veggies or chunks of mozzarella for an extra layer of flavour.
Soft Cornbread
For a touch of sweetness, cornbread is a wonderful addition to any BBQ spread. Its slightly sweet, buttery flavour provides a pleasant contrast to the bold, smoky intensity of grilled meats. It’s also quick and easy to make, simply mix a cornbread base with milk, then stir in a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. Bake in batches and you’ll have enough to keep a crowd well fed.
Light Desserts for Summer BBQs
No menu is complete without something sweet to finish. Here are the best dessert options for a hot, sunny summer day:
No-Bake Cheesecake Cups
No-bake cheesecake cups are a perfect summer dessert since they require no oven and simply need to be kept cool after preparing. They also come in individual portions, making serving a breeze. Choose from a variety of flavours like strawberry, blueberry, Oreo, or lemon to suit your guests’ tastes. Best of all, they can be made one to two days in advance, taking one more thing off your plate on the day of the party.
Fruit-Based Desserts
Whether served as a simple fruit salad or a platter of chilled sliced fruit, fresh fruits are a foolproof summer dessert. Choose the most refreshing varieties to help beat the heat, such as watermelon, pineapple, berries, and peaches, and make sure they’re well chilled before serving. For a fun twist, try grilling the pineapple slices for a caramelized, smoky-sweet flavour. Naturally vegan and light on the stomach, fresh fruits are the perfect way to round off a rich, hearty BBQ meal.
Ice Cream Sandwich Treats
Ice cream bars require zero prep, making them one of the easiest dessert options you can offer. Simply stock up on a variety of flavours you think your guests will enjoy, keep them in the freezer, and let everyone help themselves. Cold, sweet, and effortlessly refreshing, they’re the perfect way to wrap up a smoky, savory BBQ feast.
Simple Cake Slices
Not every dessert has to be cold. Cake slices are a classic option that never feels out of place at a summer gathering. Simply pick some up from your favorite bakery in flavours you know your guests will enjoy. For outdoor settings, opt for sturdier varieties like pound cake or fruit-based cakes that hold up well in the heat without frosting that melts or slides. If you enjoy baking and have the time, a homemade cake adds a personal touch, and setting it out for guests to slice themselves makes for a fun, casual finishing moment.
Chilled Pie Options
For something that falls between a cake and a cheesecake cup, chilled pies are a delightful middle ground. The options are plentiful, from icebox cakes and pudding pies to full cheesecakes. Fruit-based varieties are especially fitting for summer, adding a bright, refreshing note to round out the meal. Some popular choices include frozen lemonade pie, no-bake strawberry cheesecake, cookies and cream pie, and the ever-classic key lime pie.
Refreshing Drinks for Hot Summer Days
No summer gathering is complete without refreshing drinks to help guests beat the heat. Here are some of the best options to keep everyone cool and hydrated throughout the day:
Fresh Lemonade Variations
Few drinks are as universally refreshing as lemonade, making it a natural fit for any summer gathering. It’s inexpensive, easy to make in large batches, and comes together with just freshly squeezed lemons, water, and a touch of sugar or simple syrup. To offer some variety, try infusing different flavours like mango, cucumber, berry, or ginger. Lemonade also works perfectly as a non-alcoholic option for all ages, but for the adults, a splash of vodka turns it into an effortless summer cocktail.
Fruit Punch Drinks
Fruit punches are another crowd-pleasing option that’s easy to put together in large quantities. Simply combine your choice of fruit juices, whether pineapple, cranberry, or orange, and elevate the flavour by mixing in fresh berries or a handful of mint. Serve over plenty of ice, and you have a vibrant, thirst-quenching drink that’s perfectly suited for a hot summer day.
Iced Tea Options
Iced tea is a timeless classic that earns its place at any summer BBQ. It’s light, hydrating, and far less sugary than sodas, making it a crowd-friendly option for guests of all ages. Simply brew a batch of your preferred tea, let it chill, and pair it with a squeeze of citrus for a bright, tangy finish that complements the smoky, savory flavours of the grill beautifully. Set out extras like mint sprigs, lemon wedges, and fresh fruit so guests can customize their glass just the way they like it.
Mocktails for Guests
Take your drink spread up a notch with some mocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The best part is that everyone can enjoy them, whether children, non-drinkers, or pregnant guests, giving the whole crowd a chance to sip on something that feels festive. Mocktails are light, hydrating, and thirst-quenching, making them a natural fit for a hot summer day. They can be made in large batches by the pitcher, and flavour combinations like cucumber mint fizz, watermelon and lime spritzer, and strawberry basil lemonade are guaranteed to impress.
Cold Coffee or Iced Coffee
For a gathering of coffee lovers, cold or iced coffee is a refreshing and energizing addition to the drink lineup. It offers an instant cool-down alongside a welcome caffeine boost, and its bold flavour pairs surprisingly well with smoky, grilled foods. For a fun, interactive touch, set up a self-serve coffee station where guests can customize their cups with milk, creamers, flavoured syrups, or even a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent affogato-style treat.
Quick BBQ Setup Ideas for a Relaxed Atmosphere
Beyond the food, the setting itself plays a big role in creating the right atmosphere. Here are a few quick tips to help you pull together a warm, welcoming outdoor space:
Outdoor Table Arrangement
The right seating arrangement can make all the difference in how comfortable and enjoyable the gathering feels. Keep these tips in mind:
- Away from the Grill: Position seats away from the grill to keep guests cooler and give the cook some breathing room without feeling like they have an audience.
- Cluster the Tables and Chairs: Skip the long, formal table setup. Instead, arrange seating in small clusters to encourage more intimate conversations and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
- Mix Seating Types: Offer a variety of seating options like picnic blankets, folding tables, and lawn chairs, and let guests settle into whatever feels most comfortable for them.
- Ensure Walking Lanes: Keep pathways clear between the grill, food station, and seating areas to allow easy movement and avoid bottlenecks as guests come and go.
Simple Decoration Ideas
A relaxed gathering can still have a little personality. Here are a few simple touches to set the scene:
- Go Paper: Opt for quality paper plates that add a pop of color and visual charm without feeling cheap. They also make cleanup at the end of the night a breeze.
- Use What You Have: No need to buy decorations. Repurpose jars, bottles, and tin cans as makeshift vases, then fill them with wildflowers or fresh herbs for a charming, effortless centerpiece.
- Opt for a 2-Color Theme: Keep the look cohesive without overdoing it by sticking to two complementary colors. Classic combinations like red and white, navy and brown, or an all-white palette all work beautifully for a summer BBQ setting.
Music and Lighting Setup
Good music and the right lighting can transform a simple backyard into a memorable summer setting. Here are a few ideas to get it right:
- Pay Attention to Volume: Keep the music at a level where guests can hold a conversation without raising their voices. It should set the mood, not overpower it.
- Prepare a 3-Part Playlist: Kick things off with upbeat tracks as guests arrive, transition to something mid-energy during the meal, then wind down with mellow tunes as the evening draws to a close. Spotify’s ready-made BBQ playlists are a great starting point if you need inspiration.
- One Speaker is Enough: A single speaker placed at a central, elevated spot is all you need to fill the space with sound without going overboard.
- Use String Lights: A strand or two of string lights can instantly make any outdoor space feel cozier and more inviting, especially once the sun goes down.
- Try Citronella Candles: If mosquitoes tend to be an issue, place citronella candles around the tables. They pull double duty by adding a warm, ambient glow while keeping the bugs at bay.
Self-Serve Food Stations
Letting guests customize their own food is part of what makes a BBQ feel fun and relaxed. Here are a few tips for setting up your stations the right way:
- Separate the Stations: Avoid cramming everything into one spot. Dedicate a separate area for drinks, another for sides and toppings, and keep desserts well away from the heat of the grill.
- Add Labels: Simple touches like small chalkboard signs or folded card labels go a long way in helping guests navigate the spread on their own. They’re especially helpful for anyone with dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Keep Cold Things Cold Visibly: Display chilled items in a way guests can see, such as a galvanized tub packed with ice for drinks. It’s practical, visually appealing, and naturally draws people in as a gathering point.
Common Mistakes to Avoid at Summer BBQs
Even the most casual gatherings come with a few common pitfalls that are easy to overlook until it’s too late. Keep the following in mind:
Cooking Too Late
Always assume your guests will arrive hungry, so don’t wait until they show up to fire up the grill. Start grilling at least 30 minutes before the stated arrival time so your first batch of food is hot and ready the moment they walk in.
Not Preparing Enough Food
When it comes to food, it’s always better to overestimate than to run short. Appetites tend to run higher at outdoor gatherings, as the fresh air and activities naturally make people hungrier than usual. A good rule of thumb for a BBQ party is to prepare about 1.5 times what you think you’ll need. Plan for at least two pieces of meat per person and serve generous portions of the sides.
To stay prepared, keep extra marinated meat on standby in the kitchen as a backup, and have the ingredients for your sides ready to go. Dishes like coleslaw and pasta salad tend to disappear quickly, so having a little extra on hand can save the day.
Ignoring Weather Conditions
Summer weather can shift quickly, particularly in the afternoon, so check the forecast at least 48 hours in advance. It’s also wise to have a contingency plan ready just in case. Umbrellas alone won’t cut it, so consider setting up a canopy or tent as a reliable backup. It’s also worth identifying a Plan B indoor space where guests can quickly retreat if the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse.
Poor Seating Arrangement
Avoid clustering too many chairs in one spot, as this creates bottlenecks and leaves some guests standing awkwardly with nowhere to go. At the same time, don’t place seating too far from the food stations. A good target is to have enough seating for about 80% of your expected guest count, as not everyone will be seated at the same time. And don’t overlook shade placement. Chairs left in direct sunlight will go unused, so make sure seating is positioned in shaded or covered areas wherever possible.
Final Thoughts
Summer is one of the best times to gather with loved ones over good food and great company. With the right dishes, drinks, and setup, even the heat becomes part of the fun. All the ideas covered above are perfectly suited for the season, so simply choose the ones that best fit your comfort level and cooking style.
If pulling it all together feels like too much to handle on your own, NBCo is here to help. From appetizers to sides, you can enjoy authentic, delicious BBQ food without any of the hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest food to serve at a summer BBQ?
Grilled burgers and hot dogs are hard to beat for simplicity. The patties are quick to prep and cook, and a self-serve toppings bar lets guests build their own without any extra effort on your end. For sides, coleslaw and pasta salad can both be made ahead of time and chilled until needed. And for dessert, ice cream bars require absolutely no prep at all.
How much food should be prepared per person?
A good rule of thumb is to prepare about 1.5 times what you think you’ll need. For proteins, plan on at least two pieces of meat per person, whether that’s two burgers, two hot dogs, or a mix of both. Round it out with generous portions of sides like coleslaw and pasta salad to make sure everyone leaves satisfied.
What are good vegetarian BBQ options?
Grilled veggies are an easy and flavourful addition to any BBQ spread. For sides, fresh garden salad, classic potato salad, creamy coleslaw, and pasta salad are all naturally vegetarian and simple to prepare. Grilled corn on the cob is another crowd-pleaser that works for everyone at the table, and cornbread rounds things out beautifully as a hearty, satisfying accompaniment.
How do you keep food fresh outside in summer?
Store cold dishes and drinks in a galvanized tub filled with ice to keep them at the right temperature throughout the gathering. For desserts, keep them covered or in the freezer and only bring them out once guests are ready to eat.
What time is best to start a BBQ party?
Late afternoon, around 4 to 5 PM, is the sweet spot for a summer BBQ. There’s still plenty of natural light for guests to enjoy the food and surroundings, while the temperature naturally begins to cool as the evening sets in, making for a much more comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere overall.