[1]Photograph Credit: Microsoft Images
As I sit in a comfortable air-conditioned room writing this post, my outside garden [2] is feeling the full weight of the summer heat.
It’s hot this week, and my kids are ready to meet friends for another visit to the water park to cool off.
In keeping our home comfortable and enjoying visits with friends, summer picnics and backyard barbeques win my choice for summer entertainment.
A summer picnic and barbecue with friends does not need all the bells and whistles. You do not need a Martha Stewart centerpiece nor spend hours preparing for some outdoor fun.
To share my simple strategy for a summer picnic and backyard barbecue, I will cover the following topics in this 5-part planning series:
Summer Picnic and Barbecue Planning Guide
Part 1: Planning the Menu
Part 2: Distributing the Responsibilities
Part 3: Creating an Inviting Space
Part 4: Keeping Refrigerated Dishes Cold
Part 5: Enlisting Cleanup Helpers
Part 1: Planning the Menu
When planning a summer picnic or barbecue, I start with these 3 broad food topics to choose the menu:
1. Meat (choose 1-3 types)
- Hamburgers
- Hot Dogs
- Bratwurst
- Chicken
- Beef
- Shrimp
2. Sides (add 2-5 options)
- Salads: green, pasta, potato, etc.
- Corn on the cob
- Veggie cups [3] or tray
- Fruit tray
- Deviled eggs
- Mac and cheese
- Chips
3. Dessert (top off with 1-2 choices)
- Watermelon
- Strawberry shortcake
- Homemade ice cream
- Apple pie
- Brownies
With the menu decided, I then create a list with all the items needed at the picnic. This list would include condiments, sauces, dips, buns, paper products, and beverages.
Knowing the big picture helps me answer questions and distribute the responsibilities evenly, coming in Part 2 of this 5-part series.
As you endure the summer heat, consider hanging out with friends at a summer picnic or backyard barbecue hosted at your home or at a local park. To begin this adventure, start planning your menu and look for a free evening on your calendar to host your summer bash. I’ll walk you through the process. It’s painless, I promise. 😉 Happy planning!
Question: What foods do you enjoy serving for a summer picnic or backyard barbecue?