Summer is here and it’s time to dust your grill off and get ready for a backyard barbecue party. BBQ parties are a summer staple, but with so many options on what to serve, it can be overwhelming at times.
You want to impress your guests with mouth-watering, unforgettable dishes that will keep them coming back for more. In this blog post, we will give you ideas for the perfect BBQ menu that will keep your guests pleased and satisfied.
Appetizers:
Every great meal starts with appetizers, and in a BBQ party, they serve as a great treat to be nibbled on while grilling. Add some flair to your appetizer tray by serving up some classic snacks such as chips and guacamole, or go for some irresistible BBQ favorites like crispy buffalo wings, smoked pulled pork sliders, or meat skewers with chimichurri sauce. Not only will these appetizers keep your guests entertained but being finger foods they will encourage socialization and help your guests relax and interact with each other.
Main Course:
Now, onto the main course- the star of the BBQ party. The classic BBQ meal typically consists of grilled meat, so your options are endless. If you prefer beef, try slow-cooked brisket or rib-eye steaks- you will earn major points with your guests. Chicken is always a fail-proof option in BBQ’s and is very versatile. You can never go wrong with a combination of grilled chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or legs. Seafood is also becoming a more popular main course option in BBQ’s lately. Serving shrimp skewers or smoked salmon will give your guests something different to enjoy.
Side Dishes:
The side dishes are just as important as the main course, and there are a million and one ways to make them stand out. Grilled vegetables and halloumi cheese skewers, baked beans, and corn on the cob are classic BBQ favorites that are always a hit. Salad options such as a classic Caesar or a Caprese salad are always a good alternative to get some greens in. A new trend is to serve up sweet potatoes, whether they’re baked, roasted or boiled they are becoming more popular in BBQ parties. They are great low calorie and low-carb options, and so versatile, you can spice them up in different ways- maple glazed, smoked salt, or even jalapeno-lime butter.
Desserts:
Who doesn’t love some sweet treat after the meal? Keep your dessert choices light and refreshing, such as watermelon or fruit salad- perfect in warm weather. Another top summer option is a classic smores or fruit cobbler, or if you want to go a bit fancy, grill some peaches and add a scoop of ice cream on top.
Conclusion:
If the idea of hosting a BBQ party scared you, we hope that this guide has given you a great starting point. With these menu ideas, your guests will rave about your party long after it’s over. Remember, the key to serving a memorable BBQ meal is to keep things simple and easy to prepare while also keeping the flavors interesting and varied. With all these options for appetizers, main course meals, side dishes, and desserts, you will be a pro in no time. Have fun, and grill on!