Summer is here and that means BBQs, picnics, reunions, graduations and more. Find the perfect recipe for your summer event, right here!
There’s nothing quite like a cookout to bring people together. The smoky aroma of grilled meats, the laughter of friends and family, and the joy of eating under the open sky — it’s the ultimate summer tradition. With a few key ingredients — great food, good company, and a laid-back atmosphere — picnic barbecue is a perfect summer event that people will talk about long after the embers burn out.
Summer Recipes
No cookout is complete without burgers and hot dogs, but feel free to get creative. Grilled chicken, ribs, veggie skewers, and corn on the cob are all crowd-pleasers. Want to impress your guests? Marinate meats the night before for deeper flavor. Offer a few sides like coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and chips with dip.
The Cookout Classics
No summer is complete without a classic cookout. Fire up the grill and get ready to impress with juicy burgers, tangy BBQ chicken, or slow-cooked ribs slathered in sauce. Vegetarians? No problem—grilled veggie skewers with a balsamic glaze or a hearty portobello mushroom burger can steal the show. For a winning combination, pair your proteins with creamy coleslaw, corn on the cob, and BBQ baked beans that simmer to perfection.
And here’s a tip: Prep your ingredients the night before the cookout, so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine and less time stressing over the grill.
Picnic Perfect Picks
Heading to the park or beach? Pack dishes that travel well and taste great chilled or at room temperature. Pasta salads with fresh veggies and a zingy vinaigrette are always a hit, while deviled eggs, cucumber sandwiches, and crispy chickpea Caesar salad offer bite-sized, refreshing bites.
Drinks matter, too! Homemade lemonade, fruity iced teas, or sparkling waters with citrus slices can keep everyone cool and hydrated without weighing down the cooler.
Delicious & Easy Family-Friendly Recipes
The beauty of summer cooking is its simplicity. Seasonal ingredients like tomatoes, berries, basil, and corn practically shine on their own—meaning you don’t need fancy techniques or hard-to-find items to make something delicious. Whether it’s a laid-back cookout or a formal graduation dinner, the right recipe can elevate the whole experience.
So, whatever event you have planned (or pop up last minute), we’ve got your summer recipe inspiration right here. All that’s left to do is fire up the grill, pack the picnic basket, or set the table—and enjoy every sun-soaked bite.
