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For many people, summertime means one thing only: the kickoff of BBQ season. The warm summer weather gives us a chance to take our cooking to the backyard and the perfect reason to invite friends and family to gather together. There seems to be something about grilling food over an open flame that somehow makes everything taste better; plus it\’s just more fun cooking outside. Here are some simple ideas to make your backyard BBQ one to remember.

Probably not the most enjoyable part of the BBQ planning process, although a very necessary consideration, is bug control. With a few simple tricks you can help prevent your backyard BBQ from turning into a bug bonanza. If you have an outdoor covered area, this is the best place to set out any food items, keeping them covered as much as possible with plastic wrap or protective lids. You may also want to invest in a few repellent candles or torches; these can really be quite effective for keeping mosquitoes at bay.

In terms of menu planning, consider first which beverage options you will be offering to your guests. Although the grill might be getting all the attention during the BBQ, having a nice assortment of beverages available will keep your guests happy, especially on those really hot summer days.

The best thing to do is to have options that will please everyone. For example, provide both a red and white wine option, a few beer choices, and of course have plenty of non-alcoholic beverages on hand. If you are feeling extra adventurous, consider serving up a refreshing mixed drink or frozen cocktail, guaranteed crowd-pleasers, especially during the summertime. It is also a good idea to plan ahead and make sure you have plenty of ice stocked up; there is nothing worse than running out of ice on a hot, sweltering day.

Deciding what to grill for the main course should not be a complicated decision; keeping it simple makes things easier for everyone. Hamburgers and hot dogs usually get the job done; if you are itching for more of a variety consider marinating some chicken breasts or grilling up some delicious beef and vegetable kebabs. Whatever you decide on will surely turn out tasty and flavorful, one of the beautiful things about BBQ\’ing is that food just tastes better grilled over an open flame and it\’s pretty difficult to mess it up.

Although a backyard BBQ often revolves around the ritual of grilling, many people enjoy even more all the tasty finger foods and side dishes that tend to make their debut at such events. As guests are arriving, set out a variety of quick and easy appetizers such as chips and dip and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. You can save time and pick up many of these items pre-made and arranged, or even save a bit of cash and prepare them yourself.

Almost as important as the main dish are the delicious sides that no BBQ should be without. Be sure to include a few items such as baked beans, coleslaw, or macaroni or potato salad, all very popular summertime favorites.

Start the summer off right and make plans to host the best backyard BBQ ever. It is always a fun event for everyone and the summer weather makes the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. Dust of that grill and get prepared for a festive event that all your family and friends can enjoy.

Byron Jonas invariably erects shade canopies for his backyard bbqs. There is nothing like instant marquees to take the heat out of the Australian sun.