Backyard Entertaining; It’s Grilling Time!

The grill has been warming up and we are looking towards a fabulous three day weekend to show off our “Master of the Grill” prowess.  Having friends and family assemble in one space is a joy to the heart, fulfilling to the soul and when everyone brings a favorite dish or two to the party, it completes the long awaited fellowship.

Summer time gatherings, potlucks and backyard barbecues are so fabulous because anything goes.  When friends bring their own favs, the table is filled with an eclectic combination of tasty cuisine.

Of course a sultry summer day calls for a cocktail, spritzer or cold brew to assist in the cool down process.  A ready made pitcher or “punch” is always a great option and plenty of ice is a must!

Ultimate Cheeseburger by Andrew Schloss and David Joachim, featured on Grandparents Magazine.  Our first recipe for this post is basic.  As you have read so many times you have probably lost count, sharing recipes that you can twist and tweak to match your own flavor are our favs to share.   If you are looking for a bit of a “kick” add a tangy or sweet bbq sauce or any other flavor that matches your mood.  Offer a variety of cheeses for your guests to dress the burger.  One rule of thumb we always follow at our backyard gatherings, is to serve a selection ( three or more very different flavors ) of cheeses for your guests.  Another great option to your “dressing” table are Compound Butters, this gives your guests many different flavors to try.  Shopping list for Ultimate Cheeseburger; freshly ground beef chuck, salt, pepper, cheese ( choose a few ), butter and soft rolls.

How to Grill Pizza by The Kitchn. Are you looking to wow your friends and fam by throwing something on the grill just a bit out of the ordinary?  If so, this recipe just might be for your backyard menu.  Again, beginning with a very simple and basic recipe.  Follow the directions in The Kitchn’s post, or stop by your local pizzeria and pick up fresh dough from their kitchen.  Your pizza sauce can be basic tomato and basil, sweet, spicy by kicking it up a bit with a few roasted peppers, or perhaps using a light touch of bbq sauce.  Toppings should be kept light, cheese ( again, your choice ) a few greens and a bit of meat, or not.

Korean Grilled Chicken by Chow.com.  A friend of mine used to throw an annual summer barbecue and his grilled chicken was out of this world.  Despite many requests for his recipe, he staunchly refused to share. :) I went on the hunt for something similar, I have come across this recipe by Chow.com.  This is filled with flavor and your guests will return year after year just to eat your chicken.  Shopping list; chicken thighs, garlic, scallions, ginger, soy sauce, Korean malt syrup, granulated sugar, toasted sesame oil, ground black pepper and toasted sesame seeds.

More great grilling recipes and side dishes are coming all week.  Be sure and tune in!

Having friends and family assemble in one space is a joy to the heart, fulfilling to the soul and when everyone brings a favorite dish or two to the party, it completes the fellowship.

We would love to connect with you on Facebook and Twitter as well :)