Easy Barbecue Ideas and Tips

No summer weekend is complete without taking a relaxing dip in the pool, grilling on the outdoor barbecues and then playing a relaxing game of pool.  But sometimes cooking anything more than hamburgers and hot dogs can be a hassle and by the time the party starts you are ready for bed.  Well, not any more, here are some easy to follow decorating, cooking, and clean up tips.
 
Decorating made easy – Head to your local dollar or party store and buy matching napkins, plates, and cutlery.  Buy plastic cups for drinking, take three cups and fill them with complimentary flowers that you can pick up at the store for a perfectly decorated outside party. 

Clean the Grill First – Don’t forget to clean the grill before you get started.  If you don’t have the proper tools, you can use aluminum foil to clean the grill.

Choose an Easy to Make Menu – The menu doesn’t have to be complicated, nor does it have to be all homemade.  Here are some tips:

1. Buy store bought dips, but add a bit of your own flair to them.  Onion dip is better when you add some French fried onions on top.  Make your own guacamole or use a mix and add fresh avocados, or buy store bought and add a bit of salsa and one chopped avocado and a bit of fresh cilantro.
2. Make a big salad ahead of time or chop up fruits and vegetables and some ranch dressing for a no-fuss healthy addition.
3. Food you can eat with your hands are the easiest for a barbecue.  Grill some carne asada, cut it in to slices and let your guests make their own soft tacos.
4. Another fun option is to make food in a pocket, put meat (chicken or steak tips) in a tinfoil pocket, add mushrooms, zucchini and potatoes (or any other veggies).  Wrap the food in the tinfoil and put it on a grill on medium heat.  When it is complete, put them on a tray and have each guest pick their own pocket.  This is an easy clean up kind of food.

Don’t forget Desert – Desert can be as easy as store bought cookies or cake or make a cake with sponge cake, whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Clean-Up – Clean-up is easy when you do it as you go along and follow these tips:

1. Have a large plastic bag or bucket to store dirty utensils.  Carry your food to the barbeque area in a plastic garbage back that you can use to take away the food after your barbecue!
2. Have people mark their cups and plates with a Sharpee, let everyone know that they will be responsible for the cups and plates during and after the party!

Enjoy a barbecue with family, friends, and neighbors at your Woodland Hills apartment.