Summertime is in full-swing, which means that it’s officially BBQ season! There is nothing more quintessential to the summer months than a backyard barbecue, packed with good food, good friends, and good memories being made. It’s one of those things that is fun at any age!
But of course, when it comes to barbecues, the most important aspect is the food, which is why today, I’m here to give you my top tops on How to Have the Perfect Summer BBQ – including recipes that fit with every diet! In this post, you’ll find gluten-free recipes, vegan-friendly recipes, vegetarian recipes, paleo recipes, and healthy recipes that everyone will enjoy. Save this post for your next barbecue – it’ll make your cooking a breeze!
What Makes a Good Summer BBQ
If you’re wondering what makes a standout summer barbecue, it comes down to a few different things.
First, it’s having a variety of dishes. When I’m hosting a barbecue, I always make sure to have at least one good appetizer, two different mains (usually a meat-based option and a vegetarian option), three different sides, a dessert, and a delicious cocktail. That may sound like a lot of food, and it is, but think about what a classic summer barbecue is like. You want to have your paper plate piled high with tons of delicious food to enjoy. Which means if you’re the host, it’s up to you to ensure there’s an abundance of different options!
Second, it’s one thing to have good food, but it’s another to make sure it’s prepared properly. It’s no fun to be at a barbecue, watching delicious burgers being thrown on the grill, only for them to turn out charred, dry, and unappetizing. Talk about a bummer!
Thankfully, all of the recipes included in this post are super simple and easy, so you not only end up with healthy food, but also DELICIOUS food every time. These recipes have been tried-and-true at my own barbecues, and are perfect for satisfying a crowd!
Oh, and to ensure that your grilling (aka the actual barbecue itself) goes well, I’m also including my 5 Genius Summer Grilling “Hacks.” These tips have all changed the GAME when it comes to grilling, and makes the process such a breeze!
Simple & Easy BBQ Appetizers
Your appetizers are like a first impression: they set the tone for the rest of the afternoon. Make sure you set the right tone with delicious appetizers that are sure to leave your guests excited for more! Plus, all of these appetizers come together in a matter of minutes, so you can focus on the main courses while your friends and family are enjoying themselves.
Satisfying BBQ Salad Recipes
While a salad may not be considered a staple when it comes to your average backyard barbecue, I love offering at least one large salad. Why? Because it’s perfect for feeding a crowd, easy to make multiple batches of, and is a great way to add in some much-needed fruits and veggies! These salad recipes are super easy to double (or triple!) depending on how many you’re feeding, and are a nice, healthy addition to add to your barbecue tables.
Mouth-Watering BBQ Main Dishes
Here is where we get into the real stars of the show: the main dishes. While barbecues are, of course, known for the meat dishes (think: hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled chicken), I also wanted include some options for my vegetarian and vegan friends, who are often left behind in the barbecue conversation.
Plus, most of these recipes can easily be made on the grill, for that classic summer barbecue experience!
Show-Stopping BBQ Side Dishes
Just like Beyonce’s performances wouldn’t be the same without her backup dancers, your main dishes wouldn’t be the same without the sides! These side dishes come together quickly and easily, and can easily be enjoyed on their own, as well. There is always one person at the barbecue who prefers to just enjoy a plate full of sides, and these recipes are made for them.
Delicious BBQ Dessert Recipes
Of course, when it comes to a barbecue, you absolutely need to have dessert! These delightfully sweet recipes are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth, without leaving you feeling bloated and sluggish. That’s the joy of making recipes with better-for-you ingredients; you can still enjoy the foods you love, while also taking care of your body’s needs. It’s all about the balance. 🙂
Delicious & Refreshing Drink Recipes
You didn’t think I’d leave you without the drinks, did you?! 😉 Well, have no fear because OF COURSE I am here to make sure that you have the most delicious drinks to pair with your delicious summer barbecue meals. While these are mostly cocktails, many of these recipes can be made virgin / alcohol-free, with a few of them naturally alcohol-free for a younger or #sobercurious crowd.
If you decide to make any of these recipes, please be sure to leave a comment and rating below! And since I practically live on Instagram, be sure to tag me in your creations so I can see them and repost on my IG stories! Enjoy! xx
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