Throwing Your Dad a BBQ (without touching his grill)
Want to throw Dad a Father’s Day he’ll never forget? Want to do all his favorite things like hanging outside and barbecuing? Of course you do, but I would be that Dad gets shaky and a little dry mouth whenever anyone but him touches his grill. That is his territory and everyone knows it. Well, guess what? You can still throw Dad a great barbecue party without stressing him out by turning on his grill.
Step 1) The Setting.
If you want to have a successful barbecue that your friends, family, and especially Dad will never forget, you have to have the right set-up. There is no need to over-spend on decorations, though. With that being said, stop by your local store and pick up some cheap, disposable table cloths (red and white checkerboard print are most common at BBQ’s), paper plates, napkins, and plastic silverware. Bring out your long fold-up tables and plastic chairs. If you don’t have any, borrow some from a friend. Despite what you might think, most father’s prefer to have a party with paper and plastic because that means there’s less cleanup for everyone and more time to spend together having fun.
Step 2) The Company.
Barbecuing is a perfect place to meet new friends, spend time with your family, and enjoy the company of the people you love. So be sure you invite a few family members, and yes, even your crazy in-laws. Also, reach out to other people who are potential new friends, like the neighbors that just moved in across the street or the couple you just met through a mutual friend and of course, all of Dad’s college chums, poker pals, and sports buddies.
Step 3) The Food.
Now here comes the tricky part because you are throwing Dad a barbecue without the grill being turned on. There are plenty of recipes out there for ribs, pork butts, steaks, and chops that never require for a grill to be lit. Do a little research and remember that some of the recipes probably require you to begin the day before. One of the best ways to save money and to involve everyone at the party is for everyone to bring a side dish or desert. Baked beans, cole slaw, and potato chips, are all very common, but french fries, pasta salad, and fruit kabobs are also good ideas. When you allow all of your friends and family to bring something, you’re not only getting lots of food, but you’re getting different ideas and recipes all coming from different kitchens.
With an open mind and a little creativity, you are sure to create a Father’s Day for Dad that he will never forget and a most relaxing day because he didn’t have to worry about someone messing up his grill. If Dad insists on being the one at the grill even on his special day, just make sure all the prep work is done so that all he has to do is watch the grill. Like that’s different from any other day! J
This article was written exclusively for www.momdoesreviews.com by LowCountry Barbecue, who has been an Atlanta caterer for over 25 years. LowCountry Barbecue has taken wedding and corporate catering in Atlanta to the next level for businesses, big or small; no occasion is too small and no party is too much.
