Bar-be-que. Barbecue. BBQ. Same name, different swagger. But whatever the spelling, outdoor entertaining suits the season like a hot dog craves a bun (and mustard and relish, too).
This year, to kick things up a notch in time for the Fourth of July, we’ve got a new, clever spin on the standard. Rather than the usual burgers and dogs, we have ideas to tease your taste buds, spin your heads, and get your neighbors vying for an invite.
The Eats:
The hottest thing for your grill this summer? Pizza. Fire up the dough (brush on olive oil to make it crispy and brown), then add some veggies, like eggplant, zucchini, squash and onions, and meats, such as sausage, diced chicken and mini meatballs. Then let your guests create their own mini pizzas.
Grilled pizza is fabulous, fun and fiercely delicious, according to Emily Kopp, a mom in Lake Zurich. “I keep spices and different types of shredded cheese on each table, too, so people can add whatever they want to make it more personal.” What goes great with pizza? Some Italian-esque apps, like kabobs of sliced salami and parmesan, a seasonal bruschetta of strawberries and balsamic (rather than onion and tomato), and pesto-glazed mushrooms and olives.
The Drinks:
Lemonade is a summer-time must, of course. But add a little flavored vodka like raspberry, strawberry or even vanilla and you’ve got a killer cocktail to share. Make a large batch the night before, then keep it chilled until it’s ready to go.
A cute way to serve the sipping sensation? Clear glass (or plastic) mugs, which eliminate any spill concerns and are a great serving size. Next, shelf the cooler, and instead, keep beer, wine, soda and water lounging in a big tin bucket filled with ice. A bucket is easier on the eyes, sure, but it also can double (post-BBQ) as a toy or book bin.
The Table:
When it comes to outdoor entertaining, the look you’re going for should be casual, comfy and uber-chic. A simple way? Give your tables a picnic feel with checkered tablecloths and floral centerpieces, reminiscent of a park garden. If kids are invited, use white paper that they can draw on with crayons and markers.
“Sunflowers are a fabulous summer pick. They are big—so less is more—and complement any color scheme you are working with,” says Heather Siegel, a Deerfield mom and owner of the clothing company My Little Pumpkin Kids. “I like to fill my vases with whole lemons and limes, and then add the flowers. To follow the theme, I use lemons as place card holders. It’s cute and easy, but looks very clever.”
The Treats:
One tried-and-true crowd pleaser that stands the test of time and will never need updating, tweaking or fudging: s’mores. Use the grill to roast some marshmallows, then display graham crackers and chocolate pieces in tiny tin buckets on each table. Guests will adore the kick-backed summer camp and fireside fun, but won’t miss being scorched by the flame!
