Memorial Day is right around the corner and many families will be hosting cookouts to mark the beginning of summer! If you’re thinking of hosting a backyard BBQ but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve crafted a few helpful tips to get you started!
Plan Your Menu and Guest Count Ahead of Time
First things first, decide how many people you’re thinking of hosting, and how many are planning to attend. Consider whether you’re planning to provide the main course and ask your family and friends to bring a side dish, potluck style, or whether you’ll be providing all of the food. Next, start by beginning to draw up your menu. If you’re planning on hosting a potluck style cookout, inform your guests of what your main course will be so that they may decide on a side dish that pairs with your main course. Or, if you are hosting the entire meal, make a list of everything you’ll need ingredient-wise, so that when it comes down to purchasing the food and ingredients, you’re not forgetting anything.
Prepare Food Ahead of Time
While there are many things you will have to do the day-of, there are also things that can be done the day before. Whether you’re chopping vegetables, boiling eggs for potato salad, washing and slicing fruit, or even forming your hamburger patties, by doing some of the prep work ahead of time, you’ll have more time to enjoy the company of your guests during the cookout!
Consider Using Disposable Plates and Utensils
After cooking and socializing, the last thing you may want to do is a ton of clean-up. Consider using paper plates and plastic utensils, rather than traditional dishes. This will help keep dishes to wash at a minimum, plus, if you’re planning to eat outside, there is less of a chance that a plate or glass may get broken!
