Summer is here, and freedom day is upon us. Time to get out the BBQ and catch up with our loved ones and spend quality time together.
To help make sure your house and garden is ready for your sizzling BBQ, Case Farm has created a go-to guide on planning your perfect summer BBQ party.
The grill
For lots of us, the BBQ won’t have seen much use over the past year, with not being able to spend much of last summer socialising. Firstly, it is important to make sure you have properly cleaned out the BBQ, although you probably did clean it after its last use it is best to give it a good scrub before lighting it up again.
It is also important to double check that you have all the equipment that you may need. Whether you use a gas or charcoal grill, all the tools you need remain the same. Make sure you have a good stainless steel spatula and tong that can compete with the heat. remember to wear an apron and have some heat-resistant gloves as well.
The food
Before planning out your menu, it is best to ask your guests about any dietary restrictions they may have. Even if you think you know everyone’s requirements, just send a message in the group chat to double check.
The more food you prep in advance, the more time you’ll have to enjoy your BBQ. The night before your BBQ, spend some time in your kitchen and get everything you need in advance. Get your burgers made, meat in its marinade, get your vegetables cut and ready to go and cut up your burger/hot-dog buns.
It is also important to remember the sauces. The standard ketchup, mayo and mustard always go down a hit but stocking on BBQ sauce, sour cream, salsa and hummus is also a must.
No BBQ is complete without a delicious dessert to finish off the day. Having a dessert that can be made in advance can really help save time and energy on the day of your BBQ, and allow you to spend time with your guests. Desserts like brownies are a great option as it is something you can easily make the day before and all you need to do on the day is plate it up with some ice cream, and you’re good to go.
The drinks
To complement your range of food on offer you should have a good variety of drinks for your guests. Making sure you have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available. If you are feeling fancy you could also make a cocktail (or mocktail) for your guests to enjoy, cocktails like Sangria or Pimms are an easy crowd pleaser, and really refreshing for the hot summer months.
Make sure you have pitchers of water available for your guests to help themselves to throughout the day. With the hot summer weather, it’s important for you and your guests to stay hydrated.
Get the garden decked out
For your summer BBQ, you and your guests will be spending the majority of your time outside in the garden. So spending some time in advance sprucing up your space can really wow your friends and family.
Most importantly, getting your lawn mowed and pulling out any weeds that may be hiding in your garden is a quick way to improve the look of your garden. For your garden furniture make sure you take that out in advance and give it a good scrub down (and dry) before your guests arrive.
The safety checklist
Making your guests have a safe time is going to be your top priority. Just in case anything does happen, it is best to be prepared. This includes:
- First aid kit
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Fire extinguisher
- Candles
Although hopefully no accidents will happen during your BBQ, it is better to be on the safe side just in case.
The most important thing by far when it comes to throwing your summer BBQ party is to have fun and enjoy time with your friends and family. Preparing what you can in advance can make all the difference for creating an unforgettable day with your loved ones.
