Memorial Day Success In 5 Simple Steps

For many people, Memorial Day marks the unofficial kick-off of summer. And that means tons of family gatherings and cookouts! In order to ensure for a successful get together this summer, it’s important to have the right tips and tricks to make everything go smoothly.  Try any (or all) of these 5 helpful tips for your cookout:

Tip 1:

When planning your menu, think “variety.” Serve foods with an assortment of colors, flavors and textures.  Also, consider a combination of grilled and cold items, so you don’t run out of space on your barbecue.

Tip 2:

If serving cold appetizers or dips, potato or pasta salads and desserts, make them a day in advance. Not only will this reduce your kitchen prep duties on the day of the party, but also the flavors will improve with the overnight refrigeration time.

Tip 3:

To keep your burgers from bulging in the center as they cook, make a deep depression in the center with your thumb. As the meat cooks and expands, the depression will disappear, allowing the burger to retain its shape so it can be topped without the ingredients sliding off the burger.

Tip 4:

Two words: Finger Food.  Sometimes, it’s not always easy to serve a sit-down meal for your friends, especially when you don’t have enough seating for everyone.  So, instead, try serving bite-sized snacks that are easy to eat, but will still fill up anyone’s appetite.  Some of our personal favorites are:

Dog on a Ritz Get the recipe here.

Mini Cheeseburger Bites Get the recipe here.

Fruit & Cheese Bites Get the recipe here.

Tip 5:

Labels! You may think we’re nerds, but, this actually makes for easy clean up afterward.  Take three trash cans and label one for glass bottles, one for recycling and one for everything else.  No need to go through and separate everything out after everyone leaves and giving your guests places to put their trash makes it easier for them as well!