Planning a cookout can be overwhelming because you want to accommodate everyone's taste. Here are some suggestions to ensure your cookout is successful.
Cookouts are a great way to enjoy food and the company of loved ones. Since the meal is the main attraction, you have to do a lot of prep work. Make sure you know how many people you’re cooking for in advance so that you have enough food. To ensure there’s something for everyone, here’s the food you should have at a cookout.
Mains
Cookouts have many benefits, but one of them is the fact that you can use a grill. This is convenient because you can cook and socialize outside. Grills are also great because they’re easy to clean, and you don’t have to get a pot or pan dirty.
You can make many main dishes for a cookout. Start with proteins. This is where the grill comes in handy. You can make grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, or sausages. Kabobs are also a great option for cookouts, as they include both protein and veggies. You should also provide options for people who don’t eat meat. For example, you could grill fish or shrimp. You could also cook a meat alternative, such as tofu or plant-based burgers.
Sides
Out of all the food you should have at a cookout, sides are arguably the most fun. You can make many different sides, so this is an opportunity to get creative. Rather than throwing together random veggies, consider easy ways to spice up your salads. You could also opt for potato salad or pasta salad. And coleslaw and corn on the cob are classic cookout sides. Don’t forget about seasonal fruit when planning your cookout. Watermelons and strawberries make great additions.
Desserts
Don’t forget about the dessert! Keep in mind that handheld desserts are the most convenient options for a cookout. You could go the classic route with cookies and brownies, or you could get creative with cupcakes. You could also offer popsicles or ice cream cones for warmer temperatures. If you want something refreshing, lemon bars are a great option. You could also choose an interactive dessert, such as smores made by a campfire. The options are truly endless, so have fun with them!
