Recipes
Throw an Easy Barbecue Party
In the wake of the pandemic, nearly everyone we know feels like they’re on spindly legs when it comes to hosting barbecues at home. Something that was so incredibly fun and spontaneous in the past now seems more…well…complicated.
Our best advice? Start small. Invite a few people over that you know and trust. Try, if you can, to feel your guests out. Do they prefer masks, even in small groups? Do they require assurances that everyone has been vaccinated? Are welcoming hugs or other displays of affection discouraged? This is new territory for all of us. The rules are evolving. But we’d love to think that we could still invite friends and/or family over for a festive barbecued meal that is tilted toward conviviality.
What to serve for one of the first get-togethers in months? Keep it simple.
Here are some of our top picks:
Easy Barbecue Recipes for Parties
Grilled Blistered Tomato and Ricotta Bruschetta
This is one of our favorite summer appetizers—slices of rustic bread grilled with fire-roasted tomatoes and fresh ricotta. Fantastic with Sangria or a refreshing cocktail. You can grill the tomatoes before your guests arrive.
Smoked Deviled Eggs
Here’s another appetizer that can be put together hours before dinner. (The eggs are best when chilled.) These jewel-like tidbits, scented with wood smoke, make a great preview for a summer feast.
3-2-1 Pork Shoulder
Here’s another appetizer that can be put together hours before dinner. (The eggs are best when chilled.) These jewel-like tidbits, scented with wood smoke, make a great preview for a summer feast.
Smoked Coleslaw
Fall-off-the-bone pork shoulder (pulled pork) always has an appreciative audience. It only needs time, patience, decent bakery buns, and a side dish or two.
Grilled Pound Cake with Mixed Berry Salsa and Smoked Whipped Cream
For years, this has been one of our go-to desserts (a favorite with BBQ University alumni). Bought pound cake (don’t judge), a mélange of berries, and whipped cream bring a casual gettogether to a great end. Finish the night with coffee or a cordial.
