Summer is for cookouts. Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and everything in-between! There’s never a bad day for a cookout, and we’re planning on throwing them all summer long. You should, too – which is why we’re setting you up for success with these 3 tips for throwing the best summer cookout.
1. Get comfortable with your grill (or *finally* get that grill you’ve been eyeing up)
If you’re doing the cooking, you’ll need to be confident around your grill. Haven’t gotten your grill yet? Learn what’s the best grill to buy and what grilling accessories you actually need first. Then get comfortable with the different cooking methods for grilling, lighting your charcoal grill without using lighter fluid, and finally pull it all together. It sounds like a lot to learn, but we promise you can do this!
Having great recipes is another way to succeed with grilling. Local recipe blogger How Sweet Eats has totally drool-worthy yet approachable grilling recipes. And, shameless plug, so does The Ginger Bread Girl.
2. Know your strengths.
Maybe you’ve tried grilling before, and it’s not your thing. Or maybe you’re just not great at cooking. We get it! And we’ve got you covered, too. It’s still a cookout if you get takeout, as long as you’re eating cookout food…right?? We think so, anyway! Burgers, Impossible burgers, and barbecue all count! Note that the barbecue list is a little older, so always double check before heading to a restaurant.
3. Don’t forget the drinks!
Do we even need to pretend to convince you about this one? We didn’t think so! Wine and beer are always classics, or get everything you need for one or two signature cocktails. Make a pitcher or build-as-you-drink. And remember that some restaurants are still offering cocktails to-go – here’s our list from last summer.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
