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Elevate your Summer Barbecue
Summer is in full swing, and so is barbecue season! We’ve got the inside scoop on how you can bring the wow factor to your next cookout. We asked Executive Chef Cassidee Dabney her advice on how to elevate your at-home barbecues with just a few simple tips, tricks and ingredients.
“When barbecuing, something that I like to keep in mind is how much the basics really play a factor in flavor – from choosing how you fire up your grill, all the way down to what you put on it. For example, when you’re grilling meats, a wood base in your grill is best for flavor, whereas when grilling veggies, a charcoal base is best. Because it’s also important to prioritize the heat on your grill, I like to make sure my meat is room temperature before grilling, and then grill it before anything else. That first fire is going to be a bit hotter, so you’ll get a better smoky flavor from the wood. Plus, meat typically takes longer to cook and requires rest after grilling. Letting your meat rest before you serve it helps create the juiciest, most tender bite. Once you’ve gotten your meat grilled and resting off to the side, you can change out your base or switch over to a different grill and start on your veggies. Doing these steps in this order should ensure everything is ready around the same time.
Also! Don’t skimp on the grilled veggies at a barbecue. Combine garlic, oil and whatever herbs you like in a blender, and you have yourself a simple marinade that’s perfect for Summer squashes, eggplant, okra, peppers and corn. Grilled veggies are the ideal side dish to any Summer meal because they brighten up your table and are a great light and fresh addition to your meal.”
Firing up the grill and cooking your favorite Summertime classics is the best way to close out a day spent in the sunshine. Simple, thoughtful seasoning, fresh ingredients and temperature control are all you need to take a meal from ordinary to extraordinary.