Nothing is easier to prep for than a good ol-fashioned backyard barbeque. Don't think basic burgers and ho-hum dogs – think creative kebabs, savory spiced meats, roasted herbed veggies and gourmet salads galore.
- Build your own salad bar. Toss a mixed green salad and serve it up in a large serving bowl. Surround the greens with small cereal bowls filled with a selection of traditional and untraditional toppings:
- Sliced baby tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Chopped egg
- Croutons
- Diced cheese
- Olives
- Hot peppers
- Sunflower seeds
- Whisk up a homemade salad dressing and serve in an oil and vinegar set, gravy boat or creamer
- To make the party gourmet, serve a cold soup as a starter: gazpacho or chilled cucumber with dill are hits with most people. To keep the soup cool, spoon it into pre-chilled bowls.
- When it comes to serving meat and veggies fresh from the grill to table, keep things toasty by arranging them on a platter that's been pre-heated on the warming shelf of your barbeque.
- For dessert, take advantage of your hot coals. Skewer chunks of fruit (strawberries, pineapple, and cantaloupe work well) and marshmallows together for a dessert kabob. Roast over heat. When marshmallows begin to melt, dip into melted chocolate. Yum!
