The mouthwatering aroma of sizzling meat on the grill, the lively conversations, and the shared laughter make BBQ gatherings a cherished tradition. If you’re going to a BBQ party as a guest, it’s important to bring a dish that’s sure to please. While the grill master might have the main course covered, you can always offer to bring a fun appetizer or side dish. Let’s explore a range of delicious suggestions for sides, desserts, and appetizers that will complement any BBQ. Make sure to find out beforehand if the BBQ is catered so you can avoid any overlaps in the menu.
Irresistible Appetizers for a BBQ Party
While the main course will undoubtedly be delicious, the appetizers are what gets the party started. As a guest, you want to bring something that is tasty, easy to transport, and will get everyone excited for what’s to come. The key to bringing a great appetizer is to make something that you’d want to eat and share with others. Here are a few suggestions:
- Charcuterie Board: Load up a board with your favorite crackers, cheeses, meat and fresh fruit for a colorful and fun presentation.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated in a tangy sauce and grilled to perfection, shrimp skewers make for a flavorful and light appetizer.
- Caprese Skewers: Skewer fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves for a colorful and refreshing appetizer. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate the appetizer game with stuffed mushrooms. Fill large mushroom caps with a delicious mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then bake until golden brown.
Sides that Shine
When attending a BBQ party as a guest, bringing a delicious side dish is a thoughtful gesture that enhances the overall dining experience. Opting for sides that complement the smoky flavors of the grill is key. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to bring a standout side dish to the BBQ party. No matter what you bring, just remember to bring enough to share! Here’s a few suggestions to consider:
- Classic Coleslaw: A refreshing blend of cabbage, carrots, and tangy dressing, coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and zesty flavor to any BBQ spread. If you don’t have time to make your own, let Lee n’ Eddie’s do the work for you!
- Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad: This colorful blend of sweet and savory packs a flavor punch, thanks to the contrasting textures and bold spices. Loaded with black beans, corn, spicy jalapeños, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime juice, this salad is perfect as a side dish or even as a healthy meal option for a hot summer day.
- Watermelon and Feta Salad: This refreshing dish is perfect for any outdoor gathering and is sure to impress your guests. The juicy sweetness of the watermelon is perfectly balanced by the salty tang of the feta, while the mint and lime dressing ties everything together in a burst of flavor.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Enhance the smoky flavors of the BBQ by grilling some fresh corn. Serve it with a drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of salt for a delicious side dish.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a BBQ staple. Whether homemade or catered by Lee n’ Eddies, they offer a hearty complement to grilled meats.
Sweet Finishes for a Picnic
Bringing a delightful dessert to share at a BBQ party is a sweet way to end the meal on a high note. Pick desserts that are easy to transport and can withstand the summer heat. Consider these delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits is a light and refreshing way to end a BBQ meal. Select a medley of colorful berries, watermelon, pineapple, and grapes.
- Grilled Pineapple: Take advantage of the grill’s heat and caramelize some pineapple slices. The natural sweetness of the fruit combined with the smoky char will be an instant hit.
- S’mores: Bring the classic campfire treat to the BBQ party by providing all the essentials: graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. Guests can roast their marshmallows and assemble their own s’mores.
Other popular choices include homemade brownies or cookies, a luscious fruit cobbler, or even an ice cream sundae bar with various toppings and sauces. The options are endless, so choose a dessert that suits your taste and will leave everyone with a satisfied and sweet ending to the BBQ party.
Barbecues are a great way to bring people together over some delicious food. As a guest, it’s important to make sure that you’re bringing an appetizer, side dish, or dessert to contribute to the occasion. However, don’t forget that it’s more about having fun and enjoying the company of your friends and family than stressing out over what food you bring. If your dish doesn’t turn out quite like you expected, or you simply run short on time, Lee n’ Eddies will be happy to help with their selection of amazing catered options! Whatever you decide to bring to your summer barbecues, remember to have fun, relax, and enjoy the good conversations and great company. Happy grilling!
