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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 27 (from laksa063)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa027.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas","crawl_time":1775276408,"first_indexed_time":1587160817,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,purewow!www,\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas s443","src_root_hash":"6618640092714052227","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"36 BBQ Menu Ideas and Recipes for a Summer Cookout – PureWow","meta_descriptions":["These BBQ menu ideas are about to get all up in your grill. These 36 recipes will offer inspiration for everything from cocktail hour to dessert for your next summer cookout, picnic, potluck or backyard party. They're easy, seasonal and worthy of a celebration."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"From drinks to sides to dessert\nPhoto: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell\nA day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of\ncookout\nfare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the\ngrill\nand fasten your \"Kiss the Cook\" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids).\nI chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy\nwatermelon-feta skewers\n,\ngrilled corn with spicy ai\noli, salmon burgers\nand plenty of\nsummer desserts\nthat are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the\nbeer\n.\nThe Drinks\nThe Appetizers\nThe Salads\nThe Entrées\nThe Side Dishes\nThe Desserts\nThe Drinks\n1.\nFrozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail\nTime Commitment:\n8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time)\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, <10 ingredients, no cook\nServes:\n1\n\"To make it even \nmore \nrefresh (and nostalgic), I turned this\ntrendy bev\ninto a frozen slushie,\" former PureWow senior food editor\nKatherine Gillen\nexplains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these\ncocktails\nwill be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a\nvodka\n-free version to the kids at the party.\n2.\nMimosa Bar for a Crowd\nTime Commitment:\n15 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser\nServes:\n16 to 18\nAs a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to \nChampagne\n is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand.\n3.\nGuava Mezcal Mule Cocktail\nTime Commitment:\n5 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nno cook, <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n1\nBreak out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky\nmezcal\nin for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute\ntequila\n, if you'd prefer.)\n4.\nWhite Sangria with Peaches and Berries\nTime Commitment:\n1 hour and 30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n6 to 8\nBring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet\npeach\njuice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea \"to consider\" to an annual cookout essential.\n5.\nWhiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\n<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n1\nDoes anything scream \"summer\" louder than ice cold\nlemonade\n? Actually, yes: recipe creator\nHeidi Larsen's\ngrown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for\nmint\nand\nbourbon\n.) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout.\nThe Appetizers\n6.\nYogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\n<30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n6\nPlace this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the\ndip's\nlayered flavor is infusing the oil and\ncarrot\nwith herbs and spices before pouring it over the\nyogurt\n. For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in\nsour cream\nor labneh.\n7.\nBlackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients\nServes:\n8\nRemember when\nupside-down pastries\n took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today.\n \n\"My version features a\nblackberry\n-\nBrie\ncombination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble,\" Gillen writes. \"I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a \nHugo spritz\n for the full effect.\"\n8.\nMarinated White Bean and Tomato Salad\nTime Commitment:\n1 hour and 5 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\n<10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\nServes:\n4 to 6\nIt's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only \"cooking\" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course).\n9.\nSpicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, high protein\nServes:\n4\nConsider these\ntacos\nthe tropical vacation you’ve been craving.\nHot sauce\n, cayenne, chile powder and\njalapeño\nkeep things spicy, while fresh\nmango\nand lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh\nguacamole\nand a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal.\n10.\nGrilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers\nTime Commitment:\n35 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nvegetarian, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n4\nI'm calling it:\nThis\nis the new\ncaprese salad\n. A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help\ncutting the watermelon\n...)\n11.\nBuffalo Chicken Meatballs\nTime Commitment:\n40 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nhigh protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n6 to 8\nChicken wings\njust got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized\nsummer appetizers\n, which can be assembled ahead? They're\nway\nless messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.)\nThe Salads\n12.\nBitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing\nTime Commitment:\n15 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, no cook, make ahead\nServes:\n6\n\"I love a good ol' \nCaesar\n, but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex,\" admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart\napples\nis sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch\nranch dressing\n.)\n13.\nCorn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, make ahead\nServes:\n6\nNothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink\nand\nfeeds a group. \"While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob,\" Gillen notes. \"It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. \"\n14.\nKristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nspecial occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n2\n\"This salad has a few of my favorite things,\" writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author\nKristin Cavallari\n. \"Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), \nbacon\n (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum).\" I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined.\n15.\nGrilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nspecial occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n4\nThis stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled\nhalloumi\n, charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of\noohs\nand\nahhs\nfrom your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over\npasta salad\nor\nsandwiches\ntomorrow.\n16.\nChilled Cucumber Salad\nTime Commitment:\n1 hour and 35 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan\nServes:\n6\nDon’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled\ncucumbers\nsuper refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream.\nThe Entrées\n17.\nHoney Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans\nTime Commitment:\n35 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\nServes:\n4\n\"If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools,\" Gillen writes. \"This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess.\" (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.)\n18.\nShrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes\nTime Commitment:\n45 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\nServes:\n6\nThree words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired\nskewers\nin the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper \"tablecloth\" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess.\n19.\nCrispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw\nTime Commitment:\n1 hour and 25 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free\nServes:\n4 to 6\nBarbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one\nvegetarian\nor\nvegan\nmain for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator\nNisha Vora\ndescribes as \"crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,\") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema.\n20.\nSalmon Burgers\nTime Commitment:\n45 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nhigh protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n4\nGround beef\nwho? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the\npatties\nand slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble.\n21.\nHoney-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n4\nWrap juicy\nchicken\nbreasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn).\n22.\nSlow Cooker Pulled Pork\nTime Commitment:\n7 hours and 10 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nslow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\nServes:\n6\nThis sweet-and-savory\npork\nmain is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed\ncabbage\nand grilled\npineapple\n. Use the leftovers in\nquesadillas\nor on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups.\n23.\nGrilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce\nTime Commitment:\n2 hours\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n6\nThe best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help\ntenderize\nit before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win.\nThe Side Dishes\n24.\nClassic Macaroni Salad\nTime Commitment:\n25 minutes (plus chilling time)\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n8 to 10\nIt's not a summer barbecue without it. \"In the spirit of all the most delicious \nside dishes\n, it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic,\" Gillen suggests. \"Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t \nlet that mayonnaise sit out in the sun\n for too long.\"\n25.\nSlow Cooker Baked Beans\nTime Commitment:\n6 hours and 10 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe\nServes:\n6\nWith so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the\nnavy beans\novernight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process.\n26.\nCauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad\nTime Commitment:\n40 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead\nServes:\n6\nIs there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this\nranch potato salad\non for size.)\n27.\nJalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead\nServes:\n4\nRipe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet\ncanned corn\nkernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?)\n28.\nGrilled Corn with Spicy Aioli\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n6\nAs far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha\naioli\ninstead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take.\n29.\nBaked Avocados with Fresh Salsa\nTime Commitment:\n20 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\n<30 minutes, <10 ingredients, vegetarian\nServes:\n4\nBaked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. (\nFeta\nor\ngoat cheese\nwork, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity.\nThe Desserts\n30.\nRaspberry Tiramisu\nTime Commitment:\n4 hours and 30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\nServes:\n8 to 10\nIf you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. \"The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor,\" explains Gillen. \"You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant.\"\n31.\nFoil Packet Peach Crisps\nTime Commitment:\n30 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, kid-friendly, <10 ingredients\nServes:\n4\n\"It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime,\" raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of\nvanilla ice cream\n) and minimal mess.\n32.\nKey Lime Pie Ice Pops\nTime Commitment:\n4 hours and 5 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\nbeginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead\nServes:\n9\nIce pops\nare a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. \"These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the \npie\n they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready,\" Gillen writes. \"Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them.\" Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy.\n33.\n3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita\nTime Commitment:\n15 minutes (plus freezing time)\nWhy I Love It:\nmake ahead, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser\nServes:\n6\nThere are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of\nChampagne\nto squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer.\n34.\nLemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle\nTime Commitment:\n3 hours and 45 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly\nServes:\n8\nDitch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade\nmeringue\nmakes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the\nfruit\nin lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle.\n35.\nSweet Corn Doughnut Holes\nTime Commitment:\n55 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy\nServes:\n8\nWarning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?)\n36.\nChocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip\nTime Commitment:\n5 minutes\nWhy I Love It:\ncrowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, <10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake\nServes:\n6 to 8\nYou’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple\ns’mores\nstation, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest.\nFood Editor\nSpearheads PureWow's food vertical\nManages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter\nStudied English and writing at Ithaca College","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/sb.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=39712200&cv=3.9.1&cj=1)\n\n- [style](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/style)\n- [fashion](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/fashion)\n- [beauty](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/beauty)\n- [reviews](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/reviews)\n- [shopping](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/shopping)\n\n[food](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food)\n\n[family](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/family)\n\n[wellness](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/wellness)\n\n[about us](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/about-us)\n\n[SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/subscribe)\n\n[About Us](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/about-us)[Style](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/style)[Fashion](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/fashion)[Beauty](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/beauty)[Reviews](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/reviews)[Shopping](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/shopping)[Food](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food)[Family](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/family)[Wellness](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/wellness)[Entertainment](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/entertainment)[News](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/news)[Home](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/home)[Recipes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes)[Travel](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/travel)[Pets](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/pets)[Horoscopes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/horoscopes)[Gift Guides](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/home\/holiday-gift-guide)[Weddings](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/weddings)[Cultures](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/cultures)[Money](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/money)[Books](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/books)[Tech](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/tech)[New York](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/ny)[Los Angeles](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/la)\n\n[SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/subscribe)\n\n[food](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food)\n\n# 36 BBQ Menu Ideas: Recipes That Will Transform Your Backyard Party\n## From drinks to sides to dessert\n***\n![Author image: taryn pire 3](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/07\/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=70%2C70)\n\nBy [Taryn Pire](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/author\/taryn-pire)\n\n•\n\nUpdated Apr 14, 2025\n\n![bbq menu ideas: grilled watermelon feta skewers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_uni.jpg?fit=2050%2C1100)\n\nPhoto: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell\n\nA day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of [cookout](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/cookout-side-dishes) fare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the [grill](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/ina-garten-grilled-steak) and fasten your \"Kiss the Cook\" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids).\n\nI chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy [watermelon-feta skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers), [grilled corn with spicy ai](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)[oli, salmon burgers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers) and plenty of [summer desserts](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-summer-desserts) that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the [beer](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/beer-cocktails).\n\n**RELATED**\n***\n\n[68 Picnic Food Ideas to Pack in Your Basket](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/picnic-food-ideas)\n***\n\nIN THIS ARTICLE\n\n- [The Drinks](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thedrinks)\n- [The Appetizers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#theappetizers)\n- [The Salads](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thesalads)\n\n- [The Entrées](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#theentres)\n- [The Side Dishes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thesidedishes)\n- [The Desserts](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thedesserts)\n\n## What to Bring to a BBQ\nOf course, you should ask the host what would be most helpful before going rogue. But I'd recommend [make-ahead](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/make-ahead-breakfast-recipes) recipes—like [pasta salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pasta-salad-recipes), [potato salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/potato-salad-recipes), [slow cooker](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-slow-cooker-recipes) meat, [cake](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/sheet-cake-recipes), [cookies](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/fun-cookie-recipes) or [deviled eggs](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/3-ways-to-dress-up-deviled-eggs)—that you can prepare the night before the event and tote there the next day. You can also prepare a pitcher of [lemonade](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/lemonade-recipes), tea or [sangria](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-sangria-recipes) for a crowd without much effort. In terms of dessert, [granita](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/orange-creamsicle-granita), [ice pops](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-ice-cream-truck-treats), [sorbet](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/sorbet-recipes) and [ice cream](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/no-churn-ice-cream-recipes) can be made in advance and kept in the freezer until it's time for everyone to cool down.\n\n[The Drinks]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: frozen dirty shirley cocktail in a glass topped with a cherry, with a hand holding it atop a counter](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail-re.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n\n## 1\\. [Frozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n- **Time Commitment:** 8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time)\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, \\<10 ingredients, no cook\n- **Serves:** 1\n\n\"To make it even *more* refresh (and nostalgic), I turned this [trendy bev](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-make-a-dirty-shirley-cocktail) into a frozen slushie,\" former PureWow senior food editor [Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/author\/katherine-gillen) explains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these [cocktails](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-cocktails) will be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a [vodka](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/vodka-cocktails)\\-free version to the kids at the party.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: mimosa bar](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_mimosa-bar.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n\n[Photo: Christine Han\/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n\n## 2\\. [Mimosa Bar for a Crowd](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser\n- **Serves:** 16 to 18\n\nAs a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to [Champagne](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/champagne-cocktail-recipes) is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: guava mezcal mule](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/guava-mezcal-mule-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n\n[Salt & Wind](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n\n## 3\\. [Guava Mezcal Mule Cocktail](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** no cook, \\<30 minutes, \\<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 1\n\nBreak out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky [mezcal](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/what-is-mezcal) in for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute [tequila](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/tequila-cocktail-recipes), if you'd prefer.)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: white sangria with peaches and berries](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/white-sangria-with-peaches-and-berries-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n\n## 4\\. [White Sangria with Peaches and Berries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\nBring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet [peach](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/peach-recipes) juice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea \"to consider\" to an annual cookout essential.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey whiskey lemonade](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/whiskey-lemonade-honey-syrup-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n\n[Foodie Crush](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n\n## 5\\. [Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 1\n\nDoes anything scream \"summer\" louder than ice cold [lemonade](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/lemonade-recipes)? Actually, yes: recipe creator [Heidi Larsen's](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/foodiecrush\/?hl=en) grown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for [mint](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/mint-recipes) and [bourbon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-whiskey).) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n\n[The Appetizers]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: bowl of yogurt dip topped with spiced oil and frizzled carrots, atop a counter next to crudites](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_yogurt-dip-with-frizzled-carrot.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n\n[Photo: Christine Han\/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n\n## 6\\. [Yogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nPlace this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the [dip's](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-party-dips) layered flavor is infusing the oil and [carrot](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-carrot-recipes) with herbs and spices before pouring it over the [yogurt](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/greek-yogurt-recipes). For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in [sour cream](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/recipes-with-sour-cream) or labneh.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: blackberry brie upside-down pastries](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n\n## 7\\. [Blackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nRemember when [upside-down pastries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/upside-down-pastry-food-trend) took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today.\"My version features a [blackberry](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/blackberry-recipes)\\-[Brie](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-brie-recipes) combination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble,\" Gillen writes. \"I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a [Hugo spritz](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/hugo-spritz) for the full effect.\"\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: marinated white bean tomato salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n\n[Chelsea Kyle\/For the Table](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n\n## 8\\. [Marinated White Bean and Tomato Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 4 to 6\n\nIt's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only \"cooking\" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course).\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-mango-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n\n## 9\\. [Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, high protein\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nConsider these [tacos](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/taco-recipe-ideas) the tropical vacation you’ve been craving. [Hot sauce](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-hot-sauce), cayenne, chile powder and [jalapeño](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/jalapeno-recipes) keep things spicy, while fresh [mango](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/mango-recipes) and lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh [guacamole](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-guacamole-recipes) and a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: watermelon feta skewers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/watermelon-feta-skewers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n\n## 10\\. [Grilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n- **Time Commitment:** 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** vegetarian, \\<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nI'm calling it: *This* is the new [caprese salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/caprese-salad-recipes). A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help [cutting the watermelon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-cut-a-watermelon)...)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: buffalo chicken meatballs](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/buffalo-chicken-meatballs-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n\n[Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n\n## 11\\. [Buffalo Chicken Meatballs](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n- **Time Commitment:** 40 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** high protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\n[Chicken wings](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-chicken-wing-recipes) just got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized [summer appetizers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-appetizers), which can be assembled ahead? They're *way* less messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n\n[The Salads]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: wooden bowl of bitter greens and green apple slices in homemade herby ranch dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n\n[Photo: Christine Han\/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n\n## 12\\. [Bitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, no cook, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\n\"I love a good ol' [Caesar](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/caesar-pasta-salad), but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex,\" admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart [apples](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-apples) is sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch [ranch dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-store-bought-ranch).)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: corn tomato salad with feta](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_corn-tomato-salad-with-feta.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n\n[Photo: Christine Han\/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n\n## 13\\. [Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nNothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink *and* feeds a group. \"While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob,\" Gillen notes. \"It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. \"\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: kristin cavallari's salmon BLT salad with spicy tomatillo ranch dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n\n[Aubrie Pick\/Truly Simple](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n\n## 14\\. [Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** special occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 2\n\n\"This salad has a few of my favorite things,\" writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author [Kristin Cavallari](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/kristincavallari\/?hl=en). \"Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), [bacon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/boiling-bacon-hack-review) (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum).\" I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled peach and halloumi salad with lemon pesto dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n\n## 15\\. [Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** special occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nThis stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled [halloumi](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/halloumi-recipes), charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of *oohs* and *ahhs* from your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over [pasta salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pasta-salad-recipes) or [sandwiches](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/high-protein-sandwiches) tomorrow.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: chilled cucumber salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_cucumber-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n\n[Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n\n## 16\\. [Chilled Cucumber Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nDon’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled [cucumbers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-cucumber-recipes) super refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n\n[The Entrées]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey mustard chicken with foil packet green beans](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_honey-mustard-chicken-with-foil-packet-green-beans.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n\n## 17\\. [Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n- **Time Commitment:** 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n\"If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools,\" Gillen writes. \"This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess.\" (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: shrimp boil skewers with corn](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_shrimp-boil-skewers-with-corn-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n\n## 18\\. [Shrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThree words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired [skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/skewer-recipes) in the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper \"tablecloth\" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: three spicy cauliflower tacos with crema and jicama-carrot slaw on counter](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-w-jicama-carrot-slaw.jpeg?fit=755%2C920)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n\n[Nisha Vora](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n\n## 19\\. [Crispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 25 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free\n- **Serves:** 4 to 6\n\nBarbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one [vegetarian](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/lazy-vegetarian-dinner-recipes) or [vegan](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/high-protein-vegan-recipes) main for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator [Nisha Vora](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rainbowplantlife\/) describes as \"crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,\") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: salmon burgers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/salmon-burgers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n\n## 20\\. [Salmon Burgers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n- **Time Commitment:** 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n[Ground beef](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-ground-beef-recipes) who? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the [patties](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/burger-toppings) and slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey lime chicken and veggies in foil](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/honey-lime-chicken-and-veggies-in-foil-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n\n## 21\\. [Honey-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nWrap juicy [chicken](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/grilled-chicken-recipes) breasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn).\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: slow cooker pulled pork](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n\n## 22\\. [Slow Cooker Pulled Pork](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n- **Time Commitment:** 7 hours and 10 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThis sweet-and-savory [pork](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pork-recipes-for-dinner) main is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed [cabbage](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-cabbage-recipes) and grilled [pineapple](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pineapple-recipes). Use the leftovers in [quesadillas](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/quesadilla-recipe-ideas) or on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled flank steak with lemon herb sauce](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-flank-steak-with-lemon-herb-sauce-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n\n[Photo: Eric Moran\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n\n## 23\\. [Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n- **Time Commitment:** 2 hours\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThe best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help [tenderize](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/does-vinegar-tenderize-meat) it before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n\n[The Side Dishes]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: classic macaroni salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_classic-macaroni-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n\n## 24\\. [Classic Macaroni Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 25 minutes (plus chilling time)\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8 to 10\n\nIt's not a summer barbecue without it. \"In the spirit of all the most delicious [side dishes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-side-dishes), it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic,\" Gillen suggests. \"Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t [let that mayonnaise sit out in the sun](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-long-can-mayo-sit-out) for too long.\"\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: serving bowl of baked beans next to a wooden spoon on a wooden table](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_slow-cooker-baked-beans-recipe.jpeg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n\n[Photo: Eric Moran\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n\n## 25\\. [Slow Cooker Baked Beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n- **Time Commitment:** 6 hours and 10 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nWith so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the [navy beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-beans) overnight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: cauliflower potato salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/cauliflower-potato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n\n## 26\\. [Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 40 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nIs there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this [ranch potato salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/ranch-potato-salad) on for size.)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: jalapeno avocado mac and cheese](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n\n## 27\\. [Jalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nRipe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet [canned corn](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/canned-corn-recipes) kernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled corn with spicy aioli](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n\n## 28\\. [Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nAs far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha [aioli](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-make-aioli) instead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: baked avocado with salsa](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/baked-avocado-with-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n\n[Floating Kitchen](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n\n## 29\\. [Baked Avocados with Fresh Salsa](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<30 minutes, \\<10 ingredients, vegetarian\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nBaked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. ([Feta](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/feta-cheese-recipes) or [goat cheese](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/goat-cheese-recipes) work, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n\n[The Desserts]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: raspberry tiramisu](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_raspberry-tiramisu-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n\n## 30\\. [Raspberry Tiramisu](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n- **Time Commitment:** 4 hours and 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8 to 10\n\nIf you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. \"The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor,\" explains Gillen. \"You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant.\"\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: two foil packets filled with peach crisp, atop a linen napkin on a countertop](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_foil-packet-peach-crisps-recipe.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n\n## 31\\. [Foil Packet Peach Crisps](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, \\<10 ingredients\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n\"It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime,\" raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of [vanilla ice cream](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-vanilla-ice-cream)) and minimal mess.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: key lime pie ice pops](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_key-lime-pie-ice-pops.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n\n[Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n\n## 32\\. [Key Lime Pie Ice Pops](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n- **Time Commitment:** 4 hours and 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 9\n\n[Ice pops](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-ice-pop-recipes) are a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. \"These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the [pie](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mini-key-lime-pies) they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready,\" Gillen writes. \"Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them.\" Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: blood orange granita](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/blood-orange-granita-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n\n[Photo: Nico Schinco\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n\n## 33\\. [3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes (plus freezing time)\n- **Why I Love It:** make ahead, \\<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThere are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of [Champagne](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-champagne) to squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: lemon berry sheet pan trifle](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n\n## 34\\. [Lemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n- **Time Commitment:** 3 hours and 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nDitch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade [meringue](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/meringue-recipes) makes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the [fruit](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/strawberry-recipes) in lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: sweet corn doughnuts](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/sweet-corn-doughnuts-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n\n## 35\\. [Sweet Corn Doughnut Holes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n- **Time Commitment:** 55 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nWarning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?)\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: chocolate chip cookie dough dip](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n\n[Photo: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n\n## 36\\. [Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n- **Time Commitment:** 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\nYou’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple [s’mores](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/smores-recipes) station, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest.\n\n[Get the recipe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n\n**RELATED**\n***\n\n[31 Camping Recipes That Aren’t Just S’Mores and Hot Dogs](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/camping-recipes)\n***\n\n***\n![taryn pire 3](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/07\/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=250%2C250)\n\n[Taryn Pire](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/author\/taryn-pire)\n\n### Food Editor\n- Spearheads PureWow's food vertical\n- Manages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter\n- Studied English and writing at Ithaca College\n\n[read full bio](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/author\/taryn-pire)\n***\n### More Stories You'll Love\n[food \/ Candace Davison Cracker Barrel Has a New Spring Menu—Here’s a Food Editor’s Ranking (and Photos) of the Top Items](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/cracker-barrel-spring-menu-review)\n\n[food \/ Catrina Yohay What's New at Trader Joe's This March? Spicy Spuds, Toasted Coconut Mini Sheet Cake & More](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/whats-new-at-trader-joes)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison I Tried Dunkin’s Spring 2026 Menu and Can Confirm It’s Truly Bananas](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/dunkin-spring-menu)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison The Starbucks 2026 Spring Menu Is Here—And These Are the Top Drinks, Without Question](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/starbucks-spring-menu-review)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison After the Tormek T-1 Saved My 14-Year-Old Knives, I’d Recommend It to Any Home Cook](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/tormek-t-1-knife-sharpener-review)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison What’s New in Food This February? Meghan Markle’s Chocolate Bars, Lobsterfest and Heart-Shaped Everything](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/whats-new-in-food-chains-grocery-stores)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison Wishbone Kitchen’s Meredith Hayden Reveals Her Secret to a Richer, Fudgier Chocolate Cake](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/wishbone-kitchen-guinness-chocolate-cake)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison Ina Garten Shares Her Top 2 (Easy!) Desserts to Make for Valentine's Day](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/ina-garten-valentines-day-desserts)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison I Made Jennifer Garner’s Breakfast Cookies and—Wow, Why Haven’t I Tried Them Sooner?\\!](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/jennifer-garner-breakfast-cookies-review)\n\n[food \/ Taryn Pire The 5 Best Steak Delivery Services for Valentine's Day (And Making \\*Any\\* Day a Special Occasion)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/steak-delivery)\n\n[food \/ Emma Singer 34 Fun Dinner Ideas You'll Look Forward to Cooking](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/fun-dinner-ideas)\n\n[food \/ Catrina Yohay The 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in (Almost) Every State](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/most-romantic-restaurants-in-america)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison 13 Super Bowl Recipes Patriots Fans Will Love](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/new-england-patriots-super-bowl-recipes)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison The 13 Best Super Bowl Recipes for Seattle Seahawks Fans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/super-bowl-recipes-seattle-seahawks)\n\n[food \/ Lindsay Champion 32 Toddler Dinner Ideas That Win Over Even Picky Eaters](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/toddler-dinner-ideas)\n\n[food \/ Candace Davison 48 Easy Snacks to Make at Home (Beyond Cheese & Crackers for the 1,000th Time)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-snacks-to-make)\n\nSee More\n\nCompany\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/about-us)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.gallerymediagroup.com\/careers)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.gallerymediagroup.com\/contact)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.gallerymediagroup.com\/advertise)\n- [Instagram Portfolio](https:\/\/www.gallerymediagroup.com\/social-portfolio)\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/sitemap\/html-sitemap)\n\nLegal\n\n- [Terms & Conditions](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/terms)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/privacy-policy)\n- [Editorial Policy](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/editorial-policy)\n- [Contests](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/page\/contest-rules)\n- [Do Not Sell or Share My Information](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/dns)\n\n[![Gallery Media Group logo](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/static-gmg\/gmg-site\/images\/logos\/gallery-media-group-logo-gray.webp)](https:\/\/www.gallerymediagroup.com\/)\n\n©2010-2026 Wow MediaProducts, Inc doing business as PureWow. All rights reserved.\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/subscribe)\n\nCookie Settings\n\n[style](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/style)[food](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food)[family](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/family)[wellness](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/wellness)","attrs_readable_markdown":"## From drinks to sides to dessert\n![bbq menu ideas: grilled watermelon feta skewers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_uni.jpg?fit=2050%2C1100)\n\nPhoto: Liz Andrew\/Styling: Erin McDowell\n\nA day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of [cookout](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/cookout-side-dishes) fare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the [grill](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/ina-garten-grilled-steak) and fasten your \"Kiss the Cook\" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids).\n\nI chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy [watermelon-feta skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers), [grilled corn with spicy ai](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)[oli, salmon burgers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers) and plenty of [summer desserts](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-summer-desserts) that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the [beer](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/beer-cocktails).\n\n- [The Drinks](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thedrinks)\n- [The Appetizers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#theappetizers)\n- [The Salads](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thesalads)\n\n- [The Entrées](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#theentres)\n- [The Side Dishes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thesidedishes)\n- [The Desserts](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-menu-ideas#thedesserts)\n\n[The Drinks]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: frozen dirty shirley cocktail in a glass topped with a cherry, with a hand holding it atop a counter](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail-re.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n\n## 1\\. [Frozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail)\n- **Time Commitment:** 8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time)\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, \\<10 ingredients, no cook\n- **Serves:** 1\n\n\"To make it even *more* refresh (and nostalgic), I turned this [trendy bev](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-make-a-dirty-shirley-cocktail) into a frozen slushie,\" former PureWow senior food editor [Katherine Gillen](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/author\/katherine-gillen) explains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these [cocktails](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-cocktails) will be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a [vodka](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/vodka-cocktails)\\-free version to the kids at the party.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: mimosa bar](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_mimosa-bar.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n\n## 2\\. [Mimosa Bar for a Crowd](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser\n- **Serves:** 16 to 18\n\nAs a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to [Champagne](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/champagne-cocktail-recipes) is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: guava mezcal mule](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/guava-mezcal-mule-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n\n## 3\\. [Guava Mezcal Mule Cocktail](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** no cook, \\<30 minutes, \\<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 1\n\nBreak out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky [mezcal](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/what-is-mezcal) in for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute [tequila](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/tequila-cocktail-recipes), if you'd prefer.)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: white sangria with peaches and berries](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/white-sangria-with-peaches-and-berries-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n\n## 4\\. [White Sangria with Peaches and Berries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\nBring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet [peach](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/peach-recipes) juice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea \"to consider\" to an annual cookout essential.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey whiskey lemonade](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/whiskey-lemonade-honey-syrup-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n\n## 5\\. [Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup](https:\/\/www.foodiecrush.com\/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup\/)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 1\n\nDoes anything scream \"summer\" louder than ice cold [lemonade](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/lemonade-recipes)? Actually, yes: recipe creator [Heidi Larsen's](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/foodiecrush\/?hl=en) grown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for [mint](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/mint-recipes) and [bourbon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-whiskey).) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout.\n\n[The Appetizers]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: bowl of yogurt dip topped with spiced oil and frizzled carrots, atop a counter next to crudites](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_yogurt-dip-with-frizzled-carrot.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n\n## 6\\. [Yogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nPlace this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the [dip's](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-party-dips) layered flavor is infusing the oil and [carrot](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-carrot-recipes) with herbs and spices before pouring it over the [yogurt](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/greek-yogurt-recipes). For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in [sour cream](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/recipes-with-sour-cream) or labneh.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: blackberry brie upside-down pastries](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n\n## 7\\. [Blackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nRemember when [upside-down pastries](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/upside-down-pastry-food-trend) took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today.\"My version features a [blackberry](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/blackberry-recipes)\\-[Brie](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-brie-recipes) combination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble,\" Gillen writes. \"I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a [Hugo spritz](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/hugo-spritz) for the full effect.\"\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: marinated white bean tomato salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n\n## 8\\. [Marinated White Bean and Tomato Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 4 to 6\n\nIt's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only \"cooking\" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course).\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-mango-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n\n## 9\\. [Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, high protein\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nConsider these [tacos](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/taco-recipe-ideas) the tropical vacation you’ve been craving. [Hot sauce](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-hot-sauce), cayenne, chile powder and [jalapeño](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/jalapeno-recipes) keep things spicy, while fresh [mango](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/mango-recipes) and lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh [guacamole](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-guacamole-recipes) and a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: watermelon feta skewers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/watermelon-feta-skewers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n\n## 10\\. [Grilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers)\n- **Time Commitment:** 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** vegetarian, \\<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nI'm calling it: *This* is the new [caprese salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/caprese-salad-recipes). A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help [cutting the watermelon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-cut-a-watermelon)...)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: buffalo chicken meatballs](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/buffalo-chicken-meatballs-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n\n## 11\\. [Buffalo Chicken Meatballs](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs)\n- **Time Commitment:** 40 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** high protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\n[Chicken wings](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-chicken-wing-recipes) just got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized [summer appetizers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/summer-appetizers), which can be assembled ahead? They're *way* less messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.)\n\n[The Salads]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: wooden bowl of bitter greens and green apple slices in homemade herby ranch dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n\n## 12\\. [Bitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, no cook, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\n\"I love a good ol' [Caesar](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/caesar-pasta-salad), but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex,\" admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart [apples](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-apples) is sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch [ranch dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-store-bought-ranch).)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: corn tomato salad with feta](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_corn-tomato-salad-with-feta.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n\n## 13\\. [Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/corn-and-tomato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<30 minutes, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nNothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink *and* feeds a group. \"While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob,\" Gillen notes. \"It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. \"\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: kristin cavallari's salmon BLT salad with spicy tomatillo ranch dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n\n## 14\\. [Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** special occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 2\n\n\"This salad has a few of my favorite things,\" writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author [Kristin Cavallari](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/kristincavallari\/?hl=en). \"Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), [bacon](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/boiling-bacon-hack-review) (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum).\" I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled peach and halloumi salad with lemon pesto dressing](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n\n## 15\\. [Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** special occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nThis stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled [halloumi](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/halloumi-recipes), charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of *oohs* and *ahhs* from your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over [pasta salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pasta-salad-recipes) or [sandwiches](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/high-protein-sandwiches) tomorrow.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: chilled cucumber salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_cucumber-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n\n## 16\\. [Chilled Cucumber Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nDon’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled [cucumbers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-cucumber-recipes) super refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream.\n\n[The Entrées]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey mustard chicken with foil packet green beans](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_honey-mustard-chicken-with-foil-packet-green-beans.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n\n## 17\\. [Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans)\n- **Time Commitment:** 35 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n\"If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools,\" Gillen writes. \"This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess.\" (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: shrimp boil skewers with corn](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_shrimp-boil-skewers-with-corn-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n\n## 18\\. [Shrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThree words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired [skewers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/skewer-recipes) in the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper \"tablecloth\" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: three spicy cauliflower tacos with crema and jicama-carrot slaw on counter](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-w-jicama-carrot-slaw.jpeg?fit=755%2C920)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n\n## 19\\. [Crispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw)\n- **Time Commitment:** 1 hour and 25 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free\n- **Serves:** 4 to 6\n\nBarbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one [vegetarian](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/lazy-vegetarian-dinner-recipes) or [vegan](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/high-protein-vegan-recipes) main for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator [Nisha Vora](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rainbowplantlife\/) describes as \"crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,\") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: salmon burgers](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/salmon-burgers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n\n## 20\\. [Salmon Burgers](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/salmon-burgers)\n- **Time Commitment:** 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n[Ground beef](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-ground-beef-recipes) who? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the [patties](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/burger-toppings) and slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: honey lime chicken and veggies in foil](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/honey-lime-chicken-and-veggies-in-foil-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n\n## 21\\. [Honey-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nWrap juicy [chicken](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/grilled-chicken-recipes) breasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn).\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: slow cooker pulled pork](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n\n## 22\\. [Slow Cooker Pulled Pork](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-pulled-pork)\n- **Time Commitment:** 7 hours and 10 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThis sweet-and-savory [pork](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pork-recipes-for-dinner) main is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed [cabbage](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-cabbage-recipes) and grilled [pineapple](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/pineapple-recipes). Use the leftovers in [quesadillas](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/quesadilla-recipe-ideas) or on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled flank steak with lemon herb sauce](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-flank-steak-with-lemon-herb-sauce-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n\n## 23\\. [Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce)\n- **Time Commitment:** 2 hours\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThe best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help [tenderize](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/does-vinegar-tenderize-meat) it before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win.\n\n[The Side Dishes]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: classic macaroni salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_classic-macaroni-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n\n## 24\\. [Classic Macaroni Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/classic-macaroni-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 25 minutes (plus chilling time)\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8 to 10\n\nIt's not a summer barbecue without it. \"In the spirit of all the most delicious [side dishes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/bbq-side-dishes), it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic,\" Gillen suggests. \"Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t [let that mayonnaise sit out in the sun](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-long-can-mayo-sit-out) for too long.\"\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: serving bowl of baked beans next to a wooden spoon on a wooden table](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_slow-cooker-baked-beans-recipe.jpeg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n\n## 25\\. [Slow Cooker Baked Beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/slow-cooker-baked-beans)\n- **Time Commitment:** 6 hours and 10 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, \\<10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nWith so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the [navy beans](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/types-of-beans) overnight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: cauliflower potato salad](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/cauliflower-potato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n\n## 26\\. [Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/cauliflower-potato-salad)\n- **Time Commitment:** 40 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nIs there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this [ranch potato salad](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/ranch-potato-salad) on for size.)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: jalapeno avocado mac and cheese](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n\n## 27\\. [Jalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nRipe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet [canned corn](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/canned-corn-recipes) kernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: grilled corn with spicy aioli](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n\n## 28\\. [Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nAs far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha [aioli](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/how-to-make-aioli) instead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: baked avocado with salsa](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/baked-avocado-with-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n\n## 29\\. [Baked Avocados with Fresh Salsa](https:\/\/www.floatingkitchen.net\/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa\/)\n- **Time Commitment:** 20 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** \\<30 minutes, \\<10 ingredients, vegetarian\n- **Serves:** 4\n\nBaked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. ([Feta](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/feta-cheese-recipes) or [goat cheese](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/goat-cheese-recipes) work, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity.\n\n[The Desserts]()\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: raspberry tiramisu](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_raspberry-tiramisu-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n\n## 30\\. [Raspberry Tiramisu](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/raspberry-tiramisu)\n- **Time Commitment:** 4 hours and 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8 to 10\n\nIf you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. \"The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor,\" explains Gillen. \"You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant.\"\n\n[![bbq menu ideas recipes: two foil packets filled with peach crisp, atop a linen napkin on a countertop](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/bbq-menu-ideas_foil-packet-peach-crisps-recipe.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n\n## 31\\. [Foil Packet Peach Crisps](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/foil-packet-peach-crisps)\n- **Time Commitment:** 30 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, \\<10 ingredients\n- **Serves:** 4\n\n\"It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime,\" raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of [vanilla ice cream](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-vanilla-ice-cream)) and minimal mess.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: key lime pie ice pops](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/bbq-menu-ideas_key-lime-pie-ice-pops.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n\n## 32\\. [Key Lime Pie Ice Pops](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/key-lime-pie-ice-pops)\n- **Time Commitment:** 4 hours and 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead\n- **Serves:** 9\n\n[Ice pops](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/easy-ice-pop-recipes) are a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. \"These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the [pie](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/mini-key-lime-pies) they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready,\" Gillen writes. \"Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them.\" Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: blood orange granita](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/blood-orange-granita-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n\n## 33\\. [3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/blood-orange-granita)\n- **Time Commitment:** 15 minutes (plus freezing time)\n- **Why I Love It:** make ahead, \\<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser\n- **Serves:** 6\n\nThere are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of [Champagne](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/best-champagne) to squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: lemon berry sheet pan trifle](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n\n## 34\\. [Lemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle)\n- **Time Commitment:** 3 hours and 45 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nDitch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade [meringue](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/meringue-recipes) makes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the [fruit](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/strawberry-recipes) in lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle.\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: sweet corn doughnuts](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/sweet-corn-doughnuts-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n\n## 35\\. [Sweet Corn Doughnut Holes](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/sweet-corn-doughnuts)\n- **Time Commitment:** 55 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy\n- **Serves:** 8\n\nWarning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?)\n\n[![bbq menu ideas: chocolate chip cookie dough dip](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/04\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n\n## 36\\. [Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/recipes\/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip)\n- **Time Commitment:** 5 minutes\n- **Why I Love It:** crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, \\<10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake\n- **Serves:** 6 to 8\n\nYou’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple [s’mores](https:\/\/www.purewow.com\/food\/smores-recipes) station, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest.\n\n***\n![taryn pire 3](https:\/\/publish.purewow.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/07\/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=250%2C250)\n\n### Food Editor\n- Spearheads PureWow's food vertical\n- Manages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter\n- Studied English and writing at Ithaca College\n***","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	36 BBQ Menu Ideas and Recipes for a Summer Cookout – PureWow
Meta Description	These BBQ menu ideas are about to get all up in your grill. These 36 recipes will offer inspiration for everything from cocktail hour to dessert for your next summer cookout, picnic, potluck or backyard party. They're easy, seasonal and worthy of a celebration.
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Boilerpipe Text	From drinks to sides to dessert Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell A day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of cookout fare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the grill and fasten your "Kiss the Cook" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids). I chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy watermelon-feta skewers , grilled corn with spicy ai oli, salmon burgers and plenty of summer desserts that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the beer . The Drinks The Appetizers The Salads The Entrées The Side Dishes The Desserts The Drinks 1. Frozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail Time Commitment: 8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time) Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, <10 ingredients, no cook Serves: 1 "To make it even more refresh (and nostalgic), I turned this trendy bev into a frozen slushie," former PureWow senior food editor Katherine Gillen explains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these cocktails will be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a vodka -free version to the kids at the party. 2. Mimosa Bar for a Crowd Time Commitment: 15 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser Serves: 16 to 18 As a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to Champagne is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand. 3. Guava Mezcal Mule Cocktail Time Commitment: 5 minutes Why I Love It: no cook, <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy Serves: 1 Break out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky mezcal in for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute tequila , if you'd prefer.) 4. White Sangria with Peaches and Berries Time Commitment: 1 hour and 30 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly Serves: 6 to 8 Bring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet peach juice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea "to consider" to an annual cookout essential. 5. Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly Serves: 1 Does anything scream "summer" louder than ice cold lemonade ? Actually, yes: recipe creator Heidi Larsen's grown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for mint and bourbon .) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout. The Appetizers 6. Yogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: <30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy Serves: 6 Place this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the dip's layered flavor is infusing the oil and carrot with herbs and spices before pouring it over the yogurt . For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in sour cream or labneh. 7. Blackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients Serves: 8 Remember when upside-down pastries took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today. "My version features a blackberry - Brie combination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble," Gillen writes. "I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a Hugo spritz for the full effect." 8. Marinated White Bean and Tomato Salad Time Commitment: 1 hour and 5 minutes Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead Serves: 4 to 6 It's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only "cooking" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course). 9. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, high protein Serves: 4 Consider these tacos the tropical vacation you’ve been craving. Hot sauce , cayenne, chile powder and jalapeño keep things spicy, while fresh mango and lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh guacamole and a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal. 10. Grilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers Time Commitment: 35 minutes Why I Love It: vegetarian, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly Serves: 4 I'm calling it: This is the new caprese salad . A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help cutting the watermelon ...) 11. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Time Commitment: 40 minutes Why I Love It: high protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly Serves: 6 to 8 Chicken wings just got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized summer appetizers , which can be assembled ahead? They're way less messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.) The Salads 12. Bitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing Time Commitment: 15 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, no cook, make ahead Serves: 6 "I love a good ol' Caesar , but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex," admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart apples is sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch ranch dressing .) 13. Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, make ahead Serves: 6 Nothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink and feeds a group. "While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob," Gillen notes. "It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. " 14. Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly Serves: 2 "This salad has a few of my favorite things," writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author Kristin Cavallari . "Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), bacon (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum)." I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined. 15. Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly Serves: 4 This stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled halloumi , charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of oohs and ahhs from your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over pasta salad or sandwiches tomorrow. 16. Chilled Cucumber Salad Time Commitment: 1 hour and 35 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan Serves: 6 Don’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled cucumbers super refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream. The Entrées 17. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans Time Commitment: 35 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein Serves: 4 "If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools," Gillen writes. "This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess." (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.) 18. Shrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes Time Commitment: 45 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein Serves: 6 Three words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired skewers in the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper "tablecloth" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess. 19. Crispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw Time Commitment: 1 hour and 25 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free Serves: 4 to 6 Barbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one vegetarian or vegan main for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator Nisha Vora describes as "crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema. 20. Salmon Burgers Time Commitment: 45 minutes Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy Serves: 4 Ground beef who? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the patties and slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble. 21. Honey-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy Serves: 4 Wrap juicy chicken breasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn). 22. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Time Commitment: 7 hours and 10 minutes Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead Serves: 6 This sweet-and-savory pork main is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed cabbage and grilled pineapple . Use the leftovers in quesadillas or on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups. 23. Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce Time Commitment: 2 hours Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy Serves: 6 The best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help tenderize it before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win. The Side Dishes 24. Classic Macaroni Salad Time Commitment: 25 minutes (plus chilling time) Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly Serves: 8 to 10 It's not a summer barbecue without it. "In the spirit of all the most delicious side dishes , it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic," Gillen suggests. "Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t let that mayonnaise sit out in the sun for too long." 25. Slow Cooker Baked Beans Time Commitment: 6 hours and 10 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe Serves: 6 With so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the navy beans overnight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process. 26. Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad Time Commitment: 40 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead Serves: 6 Is there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this ranch potato salad on for size.) 27. Jalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead Serves: 4 Ripe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet canned corn kernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?) 28. Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy Serves: 6 As far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha aioli instead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take. 29. Baked Avocados with Fresh Salsa Time Commitment: 20 minutes Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, vegetarian Serves: 4 Baked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. ( Feta or goat cheese work, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity. The Desserts 30. Raspberry Tiramisu Time Commitment: 4 hours and 30 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly Serves: 8 to 10 If you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. "The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor," explains Gillen. "You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant." 31. Foil Packet Peach Crisps Time Commitment: 30 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, <10 ingredients Serves: 4 "It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime," raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of vanilla ice cream ) and minimal mess. 32. Key Lime Pie Ice Pops Time Commitment: 4 hours and 5 minutes Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead Serves: 9 Ice pops are a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. "These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the pie they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready," Gillen writes. "Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them." Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy. 33. 3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita Time Commitment: 15 minutes (plus freezing time) Why I Love It: make ahead, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser Serves: 6 There are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of Champagne to squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer. 34. Lemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle Time Commitment: 3 hours and 45 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly Serves: 8 Ditch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade meringue makes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the fruit in lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle. 35. Sweet Corn Doughnut Holes Time Commitment: 55 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy Serves: 8 Warning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?) 36. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip Time Commitment: 5 minutes Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, <10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake Serves: 6 to 8 You’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple s’mores station, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest. Food Editor Spearheads PureWow's food vertical Manages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter Studied English and writing at Ithaca College
Markdown	![](https://sb.scorecardresearch.com/p?c1=2&c2=39712200&cv=3.9.1&cj=1) - [style](https://www.purewow.com/style) - [fashion](https://www.purewow.com/fashion) - [beauty](https://www.purewow.com/beauty) - [reviews](https://www.purewow.com/reviews) - [shopping](https://www.purewow.com/shopping) [food](https://www.purewow.com/food) [family](https://www.purewow.com/family) [wellness](https://www.purewow.com/wellness) [about us](https://www.purewow.com/page/about-us) [SUBSCRIBE](https://www.purewow.com/subscribe) [About Us](https://www.purewow.com/page/about-us)[Style](https://www.purewow.com/style)[Fashion](https://www.purewow.com/fashion)[Beauty](https://www.purewow.com/beauty)[Reviews](https://www.purewow.com/reviews)[Shopping](https://www.purewow.com/shopping)[Food](https://www.purewow.com/food)[Family](https://www.purewow.com/family)[Wellness](https://www.purewow.com/wellness)[Entertainment](https://www.purewow.com/entertainment)[News](https://www.purewow.com/news)[Home](https://www.purewow.com/home)[Recipes](https://www.purewow.com/recipes)[Travel](https://www.purewow.com/travel)[Pets](https://www.purewow.com/pets)[Horoscopes](https://www.purewow.com/horoscopes)[Gift Guides](https://www.purewow.com/home/holiday-gift-guide)[Weddings](https://www.purewow.com/weddings)[Cultures](https://www.purewow.com/cultures)[Money](https://www.purewow.com/money)[Books](https://www.purewow.com/books)[Tech](https://www.purewow.com/tech)[New York](https://www.purewow.com/ny)[Los Angeles](https://www.purewow.com/la) [SUBSCRIBE](https://www.purewow.com/subscribe) [food](https://www.purewow.com/food) # 36 BBQ Menu Ideas: Recipes That Will Transform Your Backyard Party ## From drinks to sides to dessert * ![Author image: taryn pire 3](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/07/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=70%2C70) By [Taryn Pire](https://www.purewow.com/author/taryn-pire) • Updated Apr 14, 2025 ![bbq menu ideas: grilled watermelon feta skewers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_uni.jpg?fit=2050%2C1100) Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell A day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of [cookout](https://www.purewow.com/food/cookout-side-dishes) fare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the [grill](https://www.purewow.com/food/ina-garten-grilled-steak) and fasten your "Kiss the Cook" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids). I chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy [watermelon-feta skewers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers), [grilled corn with spicy ai](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)[oli, salmon burgers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) and plenty of [summer desserts](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-summer-desserts) that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the [beer](https://www.purewow.com/food/beer-cocktails). RELATED * [68 Picnic Food Ideas to Pack in Your Basket](https://www.purewow.com/food/picnic-food-ideas) * IN THIS ARTICLE - [The Drinks](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thedrinks) - [The Appetizers](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#theappetizers) - [The Salads](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thesalads) - [The Entrées](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#theentres) - [The Side Dishes](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thesidedishes) - [The Desserts](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thedesserts) ## What to Bring to a BBQ Of course, you should ask the host what would be most helpful before going rogue. But I'd recommend [make-ahead](https://www.purewow.com/food/make-ahead-breakfast-recipes) recipes—like [pasta salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/pasta-salad-recipes), [potato salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/potato-salad-recipes), [slow cooker](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-slow-cooker-recipes) meat, [cake](https://www.purewow.com/food/sheet-cake-recipes), [cookies](https://www.purewow.com/food/fun-cookie-recipes) or [deviled eggs](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/3-ways-to-dress-up-deviled-eggs)—that you can prepare the night before the event and tote there the next day. You can also prepare a pitcher of [lemonade](https://www.purewow.com/food/lemonade-recipes), tea or [sangria](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-sangria-recipes) for a crowd without much effort. In terms of dessert, [granita](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/orange-creamsicle-granita), [ice pops](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-ice-cream-truck-treats), [sorbet](https://www.purewow.com/food/sorbet-recipes) and [ice cream](https://www.purewow.com/food/no-churn-ice-cream-recipes) can be made in advance and kept in the freezer until it's time for everyone to cool down. [The Drinks]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: frozen dirty shirley cocktail in a glass topped with a cherry, with a hand holding it atop a counter](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail-re.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) ## 1\. [Frozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) - Time Commitment: 8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time) - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, \<10 ingredients, no cook - Serves:** 1 "To make it even more refresh (and nostalgic), I turned this [trendy bev](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-make-a-dirty-shirley-cocktail) into a frozen slushie," former PureWow senior food editor [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/author/katherine-gillen) explains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these [cocktails](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-cocktails) will be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a [vodka](https://www.purewow.com/food/vodka-cocktails)\-free version to the kids at the party. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) [![bbq menu ideas: mimosa bar](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_mimosa-bar.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) [Photo: Christine Han/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) ## 2\. [Mimosa Bar for a Crowd](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser - Serves: 16 to 18 As a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to [Champagne](https://www.purewow.com/food/champagne-cocktail-recipes) is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) [![bbq menu ideas: guava mezcal mule](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/guava-mezcal-mule-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) [Salt & Wind](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) ## 3\. [Guava Mezcal Mule Cocktail](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) - Time Commitment: 5 minutes - Why I Love It: no cook, \<30 minutes, \<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 1 Break out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky [mezcal](https://www.purewow.com/food/what-is-mezcal) in for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute [tequila](https://www.purewow.com/food/tequila-cocktail-recipes), if you'd prefer.) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) [![bbq menu ideas: white sangria with peaches and berries](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/white-sangria-with-peaches-and-berries-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) ## 4\. [White Sangria with Peaches and Berries](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 6 to 8 Bring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet [peach](https://www.purewow.com/food/peach-recipes) juice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea "to consider" to an annual cookout essential. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) [![bbq menu ideas: honey whiskey lemonade](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/whiskey-lemonade-honey-syrup-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) [Foodie Crush](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) ## 5\. [Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: \<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly - Serves: 1 Does anything scream "summer" louder than ice cold [lemonade](https://www.purewow.com/food/lemonade-recipes)? Actually, yes: recipe creator [Heidi Larsen's](https://www.instagram.com/foodiecrush/?hl=en) grown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for [mint](https://www.purewow.com/food/mint-recipes) and [bourbon](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-whiskey).) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout. [Get the recipe](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) [The Appetizers]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: bowl of yogurt dip topped with spiced oil and frizzled carrots, atop a counter next to crudites](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_yogurt-dip-with-frizzled-carrot.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) [Photo: Christine Han/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) ## 6\. [Yogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: \<30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 Place this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the [dip's](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-party-dips) layered flavor is infusing the oil and [carrot](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-carrot-recipes) with herbs and spices before pouring it over the [yogurt](https://www.purewow.com/food/greek-yogurt-recipes). For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in [sour cream](https://www.purewow.com/food/recipes-with-sour-cream) or labneh. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) [![bbq menu ideas: blackberry brie upside-down pastries](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) ## 7\. [Blackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients - Serves: 8 Remember when [upside-down pastries](https://www.purewow.com/food/upside-down-pastry-food-trend) took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today."My version features a [blackberry](https://www.purewow.com/food/blackberry-recipes)\-[Brie](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-brie-recipes) combination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble," Gillen writes. "I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a [Hugo spritz](https://www.purewow.com/food/hugo-spritz) for the full effect." [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) [![bbq menu ideas: marinated white bean tomato salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) [Chelsea Kyle/For the Table](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) ## 8\. [Marinated White Bean and Tomato Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 5 minutes - Why I Love It: \<10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead - Serves: 4 to 6 It's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only "cooking" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course). [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) [![bbq menu ideas: spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-mango-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) ## 9\. [Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, high protein - Serves: 4 Consider these [tacos](https://www.purewow.com/food/taco-recipe-ideas) the tropical vacation you’ve been craving. [Hot sauce](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-hot-sauce), cayenne, chile powder and [jalapeño](https://www.purewow.com/food/jalapeno-recipes) keep things spicy, while fresh [mango](https://www.purewow.com/food/mango-recipes) and lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh [guacamole](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-guacamole-recipes) and a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) [![bbq menu ideas: watermelon feta skewers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/watermelon-feta-skewers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) ## 10\. [Grilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) - Time Commitment: 35 minutes - Why I Love It: vegetarian, \<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly - Serves: 4 I'm calling it: This is the new [caprese salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/caprese-salad-recipes). A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help [cutting the watermelon](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-cut-a-watermelon)...) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) [![bbq menu ideas: buffalo chicken meatballs](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/buffalo-chicken-meatballs-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) [Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) ## 11\. [Buffalo Chicken Meatballs](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) - Time Commitment: 40 minutes - Why I Love It: high protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 6 to 8 [Chicken wings](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-chicken-wing-recipes) just got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized [summer appetizers](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-appetizers), which can be assembled ahead? They're way less messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) [The Salads]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: wooden bowl of bitter greens and green apple slices in homemade herby ranch dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) [Photo: Christine Han/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) ## 12\. [Bitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, no cook, make ahead - Serves: 6 "I love a good ol' [Caesar](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/caesar-pasta-salad), but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex," admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart [apples](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-apples) is sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch [ranch dressing](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-store-bought-ranch).) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) [![bbq menu ideas: corn tomato salad with feta](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_corn-tomato-salad-with-feta.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) [Photo: Christine Han/Styling: Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) ## 13\. [Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, make ahead - Serves: 6 Nothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink and feeds a group. "While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob," Gillen notes. "It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. " [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) [![bbq menu ideas: kristin cavallari's salmon BLT salad with spicy tomatillo ranch dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) [Aubrie Pick/Truly Simple](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) ## 14\. [Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly - Serves: 2 "This salad has a few of my favorite things," writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author [Kristin Cavallari](https://www.instagram.com/kristincavallari/?hl=en). "Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), [bacon](https://www.purewow.com/food/boiling-bacon-hack-review) (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum)." I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) [![bbq menu ideas: grilled peach and halloumi salad with lemon pesto dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) ## 15\. [Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly - Serves: 4 This stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled [halloumi](https://www.purewow.com/food/halloumi-recipes), charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of oohs and ahhs from your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over [pasta salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/pasta-salad-recipes) or [sandwiches](https://www.purewow.com/food/high-protein-sandwiches) tomorrow. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) [![bbq menu ideas: chilled cucumber salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_cucumber-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) [Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) ## 16\. [Chilled Cucumber Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 35 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan - Serves: 6 Don’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled [cucumbers](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-cucumber-recipes) super refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) [The Entrées]() [![bbq menu ideas: honey mustard chicken with foil packet green beans](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_honey-mustard-chicken-with-foil-packet-green-beans.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) ## 17\. [Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) - Time Commitment: 35 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein - Serves: 4 "If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools," Gillen writes. "This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess." (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) [![bbq menu ideas: shrimp boil skewers with corn](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_shrimp-boil-skewers-with-corn-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) ## 18\. [Shrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) - Time Commitment: 45 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein - Serves: 6 Three words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired [skewers](https://www.purewow.com/food/skewer-recipes) in the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper "tablecloth" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) [![bbq menu ideas recipes: three spicy cauliflower tacos with crema and jicama-carrot slaw on counter](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-w-jicama-carrot-slaw.jpeg?fit=755%2C920)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) [Nisha Vora](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) ## 19\. [Crispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 25 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free - Serves: 4 to 6 Barbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one [vegetarian](https://www.purewow.com/food/lazy-vegetarian-dinner-recipes) or [vegan](https://www.purewow.com/food/high-protein-vegan-recipes) main for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator [Nisha Vora](https://www.instagram.com/rainbowplantlife/) describes as "crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) [![bbq menu ideas: salmon burgers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/salmon-burgers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) ## 20\. [Salmon Burgers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) - Time Commitment: 45 minutes - Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 4 [Ground beef](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-ground-beef-recipes) who? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the [patties](https://www.purewow.com/food/burger-toppings) and slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) [![bbq menu ideas: honey lime chicken and veggies in foil](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/honey-lime-chicken-and-veggies-in-foil-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) ## 21\. [Honey-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 4 Wrap juicy [chicken](https://www.purewow.com/food/grilled-chicken-recipes) breasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn). [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) [![bbq menu ideas: slow cooker pulled pork](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) ## 22\. [Slow Cooker Pulled Pork](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) - Time Commitment: 7 hours and 10 minutes - Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead - Serves: 6 This sweet-and-savory [pork](https://www.purewow.com/food/pork-recipes-for-dinner) main is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed [cabbage](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-cabbage-recipes) and grilled [pineapple](https://www.purewow.com/food/pineapple-recipes). Use the leftovers in [quesadillas](https://www.purewow.com/food/quesadilla-recipe-ideas) or on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) [![bbq menu ideas: grilled flank steak with lemon herb sauce](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-flank-steak-with-lemon-herb-sauce-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) [Photo: Eric Moran/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) ## 23\. [Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) - Time Commitment: 2 hours - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 The best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help [tenderize](https://www.purewow.com/food/does-vinegar-tenderize-meat) it before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) [The Side Dishes]() [![bbq menu ideas: classic macaroni salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_classic-macaroni-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) ## 24\. [Classic Macaroni Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) - Time Commitment: 25 minutes (plus chilling time) - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 8 to 10 It's not a summer barbecue without it. "In the spirit of all the most delicious [side dishes](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-side-dishes), it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic," Gillen suggests. "Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t [let that mayonnaise sit out in the sun](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-long-can-mayo-sit-out) for too long." [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) [![bbq menu ideas recipes: serving bowl of baked beans next to a wooden spoon on a wooden table](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_slow-cooker-baked-beans-recipe.jpeg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) [Photo: Eric Moran/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) ## 25\. [Slow Cooker Baked Beans](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) - Time Commitment: 6 hours and 10 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe - Serves: 6 With so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the [navy beans](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-beans) overnight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) [![bbq menu ideas: cauliflower potato salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/cauliflower-potato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) ## 26\. [Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) - Time Commitment: 40 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead - Serves: 6 Is there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this [ranch potato salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ranch-potato-salad) on for size.) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) [![bbq menu ideas: jalapeno avocado mac and cheese](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) ## 27\. [Jalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead - Serves: 4 Ripe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet [canned corn](https://www.purewow.com/food/canned-corn-recipes) kernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) [![bbq menu ideas: grilled corn with spicy aioli](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) ## 28\. [Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 As far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha [aioli](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-make-aioli) instead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) [![bbq menu ideas: baked avocado with salsa](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/baked-avocado-with-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) [Floating Kitchen](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) ## 29\. [Baked Avocados with Fresh Salsa](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: \<30 minutes, \<10 ingredients, vegetarian - Serves: 4 Baked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. ([Feta](https://www.purewow.com/food/feta-cheese-recipes) or [goat cheese](https://www.purewow.com/food/goat-cheese-recipes) work, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity. [Get the recipe](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) [The Desserts]() [![bbq menu ideas: raspberry tiramisu](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_raspberry-tiramisu-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) ## 30\. [Raspberry Tiramisu](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) - Time Commitment: 4 hours and 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 8 to 10 If you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. "The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor," explains Gillen. "You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant." [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) [![bbq menu ideas recipes: two foil packets filled with peach crisp, atop a linen napkin on a countertop](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_foil-packet-peach-crisps-recipe.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) ## 31\. [Foil Packet Peach Crisps](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, \<10 ingredients - Serves: 4 "It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime," raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of [vanilla ice cream](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-vanilla-ice-cream)) and minimal mess. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) [![bbq menu ideas: key lime pie ice pops](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_key-lime-pie-ice-pops.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) ## 32\. [Key Lime Pie Ice Pops](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) - Time Commitment: 4 hours and 5 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead - Serves: 9 [Ice pops](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-ice-pop-recipes) are a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. "These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the [pie](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mini-key-lime-pies) they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready," Gillen writes. "Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them." Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) [![bbq menu ideas: blood orange granita](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/blood-orange-granita-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) [Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) ## 33\. [3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes (plus freezing time) - Why I Love It: make ahead, \<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser - Serves: 6 There are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of [Champagne](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-champagne) to squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) [![bbq menu ideas: lemon berry sheet pan trifle](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) ## 34\. [Lemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) - Time Commitment: 3 hours and 45 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly - Serves: 8 Ditch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade [meringue](https://www.purewow.com/food/meringue-recipes) makes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the [fruit](https://www.purewow.com/food/strawberry-recipes) in lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) [![bbq menu ideas: sweet corn doughnuts](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/sweet-corn-doughnuts-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) ## 35\. [Sweet Corn Doughnut Holes](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) - Time Commitment: 55 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 8 Warning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?) [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) [![bbq menu ideas: chocolate chip cookie dough dip](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) [Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) ## 36\. [Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) - Time Commitment: 5 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake - Serves: 6 to 8 You’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple [s’mores](https://www.purewow.com/food/smores-recipes) station, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest. [Get the recipe](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) RELATED * [31 Camping Recipes That Aren’t Just S’Mores and Hot Dogs](https://www.purewow.com/food/camping-recipes) * * ![taryn pire 3](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/07/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=250%2C250) [Taryn Pire](https://www.purewow.com/author/taryn-pire) ### Food Editor - Spearheads PureWow's food vertical - Manages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter - Studied English and writing at Ithaca College [read full bio](https://www.purewow.com/author/taryn-pire) * ### More Stories You'll Love [food / Candace Davison Cracker Barrel Has a New Spring Menu—Here’s a Food Editor’s Ranking (and Photos) of the Top Items](https://www.purewow.com/food/cracker-barrel-spring-menu-review) [food / Catrina Yohay What's New at Trader Joe's This March? 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Readable Markdown	## From drinks to sides to dessert ![bbq menu ideas: grilled watermelon feta skewers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_uni.jpg?fit=2050%2C1100) Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell A day in the yard spent with loved ones, a decadent spread of [cookout](https://www.purewow.com/food/cookout-side-dishes) fare and cold drinks. Does it get any better than that? I think not. Once the weather's right, fire up the [grill](https://www.purewow.com/food/ina-garten-grilled-steak) and fasten your "Kiss the Cook" apron to tackle these 36 BBQ menu ideas that'll impress your guests (even picky kids). I chose the following recipes because they're timely, festive and simple enough for beginners to master. Plus, many can be prepared ahead of the potluck, picnic, campout—you get the picture. Think juicy [watermelon-feta skewers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers), [grilled corn with spicy ai](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe)[oli, salmon burgers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) and plenty of [summer desserts](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-summer-desserts) that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. I'll bring the [beer](https://www.purewow.com/food/beer-cocktails). - [The Drinks](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thedrinks) - [The Appetizers](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#theappetizers) - [The Salads](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thesalads) - [The Entrées](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#theentres) - [The Side Dishes](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thesidedishes) - [The Desserts](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-menu-ideas#thedesserts) [The Drinks]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: frozen dirty shirley cocktail in a glass topped with a cherry, with a hand holding it atop a counter](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail-re.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) ## 1\. [Frozen Dirty Shirley Cocktail](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/frozen-dirty-shirley-cocktail) - Time Commitment: 8 hours and 5 minutes (includes freezing time) - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, \<10 ingredients, no cook - Serves: 1 "To make it even more refresh (and nostalgic), I turned this [trendy bev](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-make-a-dirty-shirley-cocktail) into a frozen slushie," former PureWow senior food editor [Katherine Gillen](https://www.purewow.com/author/katherine-gillen) explains. As long as you freeze the lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale) the night before the cookout, these [cocktails](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-cocktails) will be ready in no time. Plus, you can serve a [vodka](https://www.purewow.com/food/vodka-cocktails)\-free version to the kids at the party. [![bbq menu ideas: mimosa bar](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_mimosa-bar.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) ## 2\. [Mimosa Bar for a Crowd](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mimosa-bar-for-a-crowd) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser - Serves: 16 to 18 As a former bartender, I had fun creating this recipe. It's easy enough for total newbies to pull off, but it's still more exciting than a typical mimosa. Make the fruit bases a few days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. As for serving, a one-to-one ratio of juice to [Champagne](https://www.purewow.com/food/champagne-cocktail-recipes) is the typical recommendation…but few guests will mind a heavy hand. [![bbq menu ideas: guava mezcal mule](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/guava-mezcal-mule-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) ## 3\. [Guava Mezcal Mule Cocktail](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/guava-mezcal-mule-cocktail-recipe) - Time Commitment: 5 minutes - Why I Love It: no cook, \<30 minutes, \<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 1 Break out the copper tumblers. Take this classic up a notch by swapping sweet guava juice and smoky [mezcal](https://www.purewow.com/food/what-is-mezcal) in for traditional lime juice and ginger beer. (You can substitute [tequila](https://www.purewow.com/food/tequila-cocktail-recipes), if you'd prefer.) [![bbq menu ideas: white sangria with peaches and berries](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/white-sangria-with-peaches-and-berries-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) ## 4\. [White Sangria with Peaches and Berries](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/white-sangria-recipe-with-peaches-and-berries) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 6 to 8 Bring your favorite dry riesling to life with sweet [peach](https://www.purewow.com/food/peach-recipes) juice and fresh summer produce. (The orange liqueur won't hurt, either.) Swap in ice for frozen fruit so the sangria doesn't get diluted over time, and you'll take this from a BBQ menu idea "to consider" to an annual cookout essential. [![bbq menu ideas: honey whiskey lemonade](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/whiskey-lemonade-honey-syrup-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) ## 5\. [Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup](https://www.foodiecrush.com/whiskey-lemonade-recipe-with-honey-simple-syrup/) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: \<10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly - Serves: 1 Does anything scream "summer" louder than ice cold [lemonade](https://www.purewow.com/food/lemonade-recipes)? Actually, yes: recipe creator [Heidi Larsen's](https://www.instagram.com/foodiecrush/?hl=en) grown-up version, made with herbs and raw honey. (Personally, I'd opt for [mint](https://www.purewow.com/food/mint-recipes) and [bourbon](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-whiskey).) Make the simple syrup ahead for easy mixing on the day of the cookout. [The Appetizers]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: bowl of yogurt dip topped with spiced oil and frizzled carrots, atop a counter next to crudites](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_yogurt-dip-with-frizzled-carrot.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) ## 6\. [Yogurt Dip with a Frizzled Carrot-Herb Swirl](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/yogurt-dip-frizzled-carrot-herb-swirl) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: \<30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 Place this swirled stunner on the patio table and watch it vanish in 30 seconds flat. The key to the [dip's](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-party-dips) layered flavor is infusing the oil and [carrot](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-carrot-recipes) with herbs and spices before pouring it over the [yogurt](https://www.purewow.com/food/greek-yogurt-recipes). For the most pronounced swirl of oil, choose a naturally thick Greek yogurt—such as Fage—or swap in [sour cream](https://www.purewow.com/food/recipes-with-sour-cream) or labneh. [![bbq menu ideas: blackberry brie upside-down pastries](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) ## 7\. [Blackberry-Brie Upside-Down Pastries](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blackberry-brie-upside-down-pastries) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients - Serves: 8 Remember when [upside-down pastries](https://www.purewow.com/food/upside-down-pastry-food-trend) took over foodTok back in summer 2023? They're every bit as relevant—and delicious—today."My version features a [blackberry](https://www.purewow.com/food/blackberry-recipes)\-[Brie](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-brie-recipes) combination that's a little bit sweet, a touch savory and as easy to devour as it is to assemble," Gillen writes. "I highly recommend serving them on the patio with a [Hugo spritz](https://www.purewow.com/food/hugo-spritz) for the full effect." [![bbq menu ideas: marinated white bean tomato salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) ## 8\. [Marinated White Bean and Tomato Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-marinated-white-bean-and-tomato-salad) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 5 minutes - Why I Love It: \<10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser, make ahead - Serves: 4 to 6 It's vegetarian, gluten free and stars peak-delicious tomatoes—what's not to love? The only "cooking" this BBQ menu idea requires is infusing oil with garlic for a few minutes; marinating the salad in the fridge does the rest of the heavy lifting (and using canned beans, of course). [![bbq menu ideas: spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-mango-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) ## 9\. [Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-shrimp-tacos-mango-salsa-recipe) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, high protein - Serves: 4 Consider these [tacos](https://www.purewow.com/food/taco-recipe-ideas) the tropical vacation you’ve been craving. [Hot sauce](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-hot-sauce), cayenne, chile powder and [jalapeño](https://www.purewow.com/food/jalapeno-recipes) keep things spicy, while fresh [mango](https://www.purewow.com/food/mango-recipes) and lime juice offer cool relief to every bite. Fresh [guacamole](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-guacamole-recipes) and a few pickled red onions on top will seal the deal. [![bbq menu ideas: watermelon feta skewers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/watermelon-feta-skewers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) ## 10\. [Grilled Watermelon-Feta Skewers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Watermelon-Feta-Skewers) - Time Commitment: 35 minutes - Why I Love It: vegetarian, \<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly - Serves: 4 I'm calling it: This is the new [caprese salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/caprese-salad-recipes). A few char marks will put a smoky spin on everyone’s favorite summer fruit, not to mention zingy balsamic vinegar. (And in case you need help [cutting the watermelon](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-cut-a-watermelon)...) [![bbq menu ideas: buffalo chicken meatballs](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/buffalo-chicken-meatballs-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) ## 11\. [Buffalo Chicken Meatballs](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Buffalo-Chicken-Meatballs) - Time Commitment: 40 minutes - Why I Love It: high protein, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 6 to 8 [Chicken wings](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-chicken-wing-recipes) just got a crowd-friendly makeover. The best part about these bite-sized [summer appetizers](https://www.purewow.com/food/summer-appetizers), which can be assembled ahead? They're way less messy than traditional drums and flats, so much so that you won't need napkins. (Well, maybe just one.) [The Salads]() [![bbq menu ideas recipes: wooden bowl of bitter greens and green apple slices in homemade herby ranch dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch.jpeg?fit=755%2C955)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) ## 12\. [Bitter Greens Salad with Herby Ranch Dressing](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bitter-greens-salad-with-herby-ranch) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, no cook, make ahead - Serves: 6 "I love a good ol' [Caesar](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/caesar-pasta-salad), but when a salad needs to have enough pizazz to cut through a rich meal, I reach for a recipe that's more complex," admits Gillen. This assortment of sharp radicchio, Insta-worthy frisée and sweet-tart [apples](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-apples) is sure to surprise. (And don't even get me started on the from-scratch [ranch dressing](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-store-bought-ranch).) [![bbq menu ideas: corn tomato salad with feta](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_corn-tomato-salad-with-feta.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) ## 13\. [Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/corn-and-tomato-salad) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<30 minutes, make ahead - Serves: 6 Nothing beats a no-sweat side dish that comes together in a blink and feeds a group. "While you could certainly use frozen corn any time of year for this recipe, I highly recommend seeking out fresh corn on the cob," Gillen notes. "It's sweeter and more flavorful, and will caramelize when it hits the hot skillet. " [![bbq menu ideas: kristin cavallari's salmon BLT salad with spicy tomatillo ranch dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) ## 14\. [Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, high protein, beginner-friendly - Serves: 2 "This salad has a few of my favorite things," writes reality-TV-star-turned-cookbook-author [Kristin Cavallari](https://www.instagram.com/kristincavallari/?hl=en). "Salmon (which has omega-3s and is so, so good for you), [bacon](https://www.purewow.com/food/boiling-bacon-hack-review) (no explanation needed), avocado (healthy fats) and spicy tomatillo ranch dressing (just yum)." I'd argue it's hearty enough to serve as a main dish, if you feel so inclined. [![bbq menu ideas: grilled peach and halloumi salad with lemon pesto dressing](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) ## 15\. [Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-peach-and-halloumi-salad) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, vegetarian, beginner-friendly - Serves: 4 This stunning spread is loaded with salty slices of grilled [halloumi](https://www.purewow.com/food/halloumi-recipes), charred summer peaches and crunchy pine nuts, so expect plenty of oohs and ahhs from your guests the moment it hits the table. Make extra garlicky basil-citrus dressing to drizzle over [pasta salad](https://www.purewow.com/food/pasta-salad-recipes) or [sandwiches](https://www.purewow.com/food/high-protein-sandwiches) tomorrow. [![bbq menu ideas: chilled cucumber salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_cucumber-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) ## 16\. [Chilled Cucumber Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Chilled-Cucumber-Salad) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 35 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, vegan - Serves: 6 Don’t listen to your kids: A little green never hurts. In fact, they’ll find these seasoned, chilled [cucumbers](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-cucumber-recipes) super refreshing after a day of playing in the yard. Up the decadence factor by stirring in some sour cream. [The Entrées]() [![bbq menu ideas: honey mustard chicken with foil packet green beans](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_honey-mustard-chicken-with-foil-packet-green-beans.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) ## 17\. [Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans) - Time Commitment: 35 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein - Serves: 4 "If your goal is to keep the house cool and make dinner with as little effort as possible, the last thing you need is a bunch of seasonings and sauces to keep track of, not to mention a mess of dishes and tools," Gillen writes. "This recipe maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess." (Seriously—you'll only need eight ingredients, including salt, pepper and olive oil.) [![bbq menu ideas: shrimp boil skewers with corn](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_shrimp-boil-skewers-with-corn-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) ## 18\. [Shrimp Boil Skewers with Corn, Sausage and Potatoes](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-boil-skewers-recipe) - Time Commitment: 45 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy, high protein - Serves: 6 Three words: Spicy Cajun butter. Line the patio table with newspaper, drench these shrimp boil-inspired [skewers](https://www.purewow.com/food/skewer-recipes) in the stuff, then lay them out for your guests to snatch up and devour. When they're finished, simply ball up the newspaper "tablecloth" and toss it. Bye-bye, mess. [![bbq menu ideas recipes: three spicy cauliflower tacos with crema and jicama-carrot slaw on counter](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-w-jicama-carrot-slaw.jpeg?fit=755%2C920)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) ## 19\. [Crispy, Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Jicama-Carrot Slaw](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-spicy-cauliflower-tacos-jicama-carrot-slaw) - Time Commitment: 1 hour and 25 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegan, dairy free, gluten free - Serves: 4 to 6 Barbecues tend to be a meat fest, so it's smart to have at least one [vegetarian](https://www.purewow.com/food/lazy-vegetarian-dinner-recipes) or [vegan](https://www.purewow.com/food/high-protein-vegan-recipes) main for your plant-based friends. They'll be thrilled to nosh on this combo of smoky cauli florets (which recipe creator [Nisha Vora](https://www.instagram.com/rainbowplantlife/) describes as "crispy, sticky, spicy and a little sweet,") lime-kissed slaw and dairy-free cilantro crema. [![bbq menu ideas: salmon burgers](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/salmon-burgers-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) ## 20\. [Salmon Burgers](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-burgers) - Time Commitment: 45 minutes - Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 4 [Ground beef](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-ground-beef-recipes) who? Salmon’s the new belle of the BBQ, and she’s bringing Old Bay, fresh dill and tangy coleslaw along for the ride. Save some time on the big day by preparing the [patties](https://www.purewow.com/food/burger-toppings) and slaw the night before. That way, all you have to do once the guests arrive is cook and assemble. [![bbq menu ideas: honey lime chicken and veggies in foil](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/honey-lime-chicken-and-veggies-in-foil-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) ## 21\. [Honey-Lime Chicken and Veggies in Foil](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-lime-chicken-in-foil) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, high protein, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 4 Wrap juicy [chicken](https://www.purewow.com/food/grilled-chicken-recipes) breasts up with your favorite seasonal produce and cook them to juicy perfection, right on the grill. If you think this BBQ menu idea looks like a win now, wait until you realize this recipe only leaves you with one dirty dish to clean (and a whole lot of charred summer corn). [![bbq menu ideas: slow cooker pulled pork](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) ## 22\. [Slow Cooker Pulled Pork](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-pulled-pork) - Time Commitment: 7 hours and 10 minutes - Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser, make ahead - Serves: 6 This sweet-and-savory [pork](https://www.purewow.com/food/pork-recipes-for-dinner) main is magical on its own, but I like to pile it high on a bun with lots of dressed [cabbage](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-cabbage-recipes) and grilled [pineapple](https://www.purewow.com/food/pineapple-recipes). Use the leftovers in [quesadillas](https://www.purewow.com/food/quesadilla-recipe-ideas) or on pizza for the kids (if there are any, that is) and rice bowls for the grown-ups. [![bbq menu ideas: grilled flank steak with lemon herb sauce](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-flank-steak-with-lemon-herb-sauce-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) ## 23\. [Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon-Herb Sauce](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce) - Time Commitment: 2 hours - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 The best thing about this BBQ menu idea (well, besides the zippy marinade and lemon-mustard sauce)? You can kick back with a cocktail and some chitchat for a whole hour while the steak marinates. Acidic malt vinegar and Worcestershire sauce will help [tenderize](https://www.purewow.com/food/does-vinegar-tenderize-meat) it before it hits the grates. That's a win-win-win. [The Side Dishes]() [![bbq menu ideas: classic macaroni salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_classic-macaroni-salad.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) ## 24\. [Classic Macaroni Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/classic-macaroni-salad) - Time Commitment: 25 minutes (plus chilling time) - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 8 to 10 It's not a summer barbecue without it. "In the spirit of all the most delicious [side dishes](https://www.purewow.com/food/bbq-side-dishes), it actually tastes better the longer it sits in the fridge, so I highly recommend making it a day ahead of your picnic," Gillen suggests. "Pick up a bag of ice on your way to the park to keep it chilled, so you don’t [let that mayonnaise sit out in the sun](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-long-can-mayo-sit-out) for too long." [![bbq menu ideas recipes: serving bowl of baked beans next to a wooden spoon on a wooden table](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_slow-cooker-baked-beans-recipe.jpeg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) ## 25\. [Slow Cooker Baked Beans](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/slow-cooker-baked-beans) - Time Commitment: 6 hours and 10 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, \<10 ingredients, slow cooker recipe - Serves: 6 With so much action going on in the backyard, it'll be a relief to let the Crockpot take care of a dish or two indoors. Be sure to soak the [navy beans](https://www.purewow.com/food/types-of-beans) overnight before transferring them to the slow cooker; it's key to their cooking process. [![bbq menu ideas: cauliflower potato salad](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/cauliflower-potato-salad-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) ## 26\. [Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad) - Time Commitment: 40 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, make ahead - Serves: 6 Is there anything cauliflower can't do? Spuds get the boot in this riff on a picnic classic, but it's just as creamy as the standard thanks to Greek yogurt, sour cream and Dijon mustard. (If you prefer potatoes, try this [ranch potato salad](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ranch-potato-salad) on for size.) [![bbq menu ideas: jalapeno avocado mac and cheese](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) ## 27\. [Jalapeño-Avocado Mac and Cheese](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-avocado-mac-and-cheese) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, vegetarian, make ahead - Serves: 4 Ripe, buttery avocados and spicy green chiles are impeccable matches for ooey-gooey white cheddar sauce. Add sweet [canned corn](https://www.purewow.com/food/canned-corn-recipes) kernels to this BBQ menu idea for some seasonal flair, breadcrumbs for crunch or hot sauce for more heat. (Better yet, why not all three?) [![bbq menu ideas: grilled corn with spicy aioli](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) ## 28\. [Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/grilled-corn-with-spicy-aioli-recipe) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 6 As far as BBQ menu ideas go, this summer staple is a no brainer, especially when you dress it up with sriracha [aioli](https://www.purewow.com/food/how-to-make-aioli) instead of drenching it in salt and butter. Add lime juice, queso fresco and chili powder for an elote-inspired take. [![bbq menu ideas: baked avocado with salsa](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/baked-avocado-with-salsa-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) ## 29\. [Baked Avocados with Fresh Salsa](https://www.floatingkitchen.net/baked-avocados-with-fresh-salsa/) - Time Commitment: 20 minutes - Why I Love It: \<30 minutes, \<10 ingredients, vegetarian - Serves: 4 Baked avocados are a thing—a rich, creamy, beautiful thing. Pile them high with in-season cherry tomatoes and corn kernels, plus salty queso fresco crumbles. ([Feta](https://www.purewow.com/food/feta-cheese-recipes) or [goat cheese](https://www.purewow.com/food/goat-cheese-recipes) work, too.) Finally, artfully drizzle them with balsamic vinegar for a punch of acidity. [The Desserts]() [![bbq menu ideas: raspberry tiramisu](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/bbq-menu-ideas_raspberry-tiramisu-recipe.jpg?fit=1360%2C1720)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) ## 30\. [Raspberry Tiramisu](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/raspberry-tiramisu) - Time Commitment: 4 hours and 30 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly - Serves: 8 to 10 If you're seeking a showstopping dessert, look no further. "The striking pink topping is just a dusting of freeze-dried raspberries that have been powdered in a food processor," explains Gillen. "You can find them at grocery stores like Trader Joe's or online, but it's an optional touch. A smattering of fresh berries or a touch of lemon zest would be equally delicious and elegant." [![bbq menu ideas recipes: two foil packets filled with peach crisp, atop a linen napkin on a countertop](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/bbq-menu-ideas_foil-packet-peach-crisps-recipe.jpeg?fit=1360%2C1721)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) ## 31\. [Foil Packet Peach Crisps](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/foil-packet-peach-crisps) - Time Commitment: 30 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, \<10 ingredients - Serves: 4 "It's a make-ahead wonder that can be cooked on a campfire and tastes like a spoonful of summertime," raves Gillen. Simply nestle the packets atop a hot grill or a bed of coals and let them bubble away for 20 minutes. You'll be left with an impressive treat (that'll be begging for a scoop of [vanilla ice cream](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-vanilla-ice-cream)) and minimal mess. [![bbq menu ideas: key lime pie ice pops](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/bbq-menu-ideas_key-lime-pie-ice-pops.jpg?fit=1360%2C1600)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) ## 32\. [Key Lime Pie Ice Pops](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/key-lime-pie-ice-pops) - Time Commitment: 4 hours and 5 minutes - Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, make ahead - Serves: 9 [Ice pops](https://www.purewow.com/food/easy-ice-pop-recipes) are a great summer dessert, not only because it's hot out, but also because they can be prepared ahead and the freezer does most of the heavy lifting. "These are creamy and refreshingly tart like the [pie](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mini-key-lime-pies) they’re inspired by, but heat wave-ready," Gillen writes. "Best of all, you'll need less than ten ingredients to make them." Use disposable cups or Champagne flutes if you don't have molds handy. [![bbq menu ideas: blood orange granita](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/blood-orange-granita-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) ## 33\. [3-Ingredient Blood Orange Granita](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/blood-orange-granita) - Time Commitment: 15 minutes (plus freezing time) - Why I Love It: make ahead, \<10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, vegan, crowd-pleaser - Serves: 6 There are few things as refreshing as a frosty spoonful of shaved ice. Add the citrusy masterpiece to a glass of [Champagne](https://www.purewow.com/food/best-champagne) to squeeze in an early nightcap (or two). You can also substitute cara cara orange, lemon or lime juice if you'd prefer. [![bbq menu ideas: lemon berry sheet pan trifle](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) ## 34\. [Lemon-Berry Sheet Pan Trifle](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-berry-sheet-pan-trifle) - Time Commitment: 3 hours and 45 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe, kid-friendly - Serves: 8 Ditch the crystal-cut bowl and give this historically stuffy British dessert a casual, crowd-pleasing facelift. Homemade [meringue](https://www.purewow.com/food/meringue-recipes) makes this shareable sweet a standout BBQ menu idea. Your kids can help make the whipped topping, toss the [fruit](https://www.purewow.com/food/strawberry-recipes) in lemon juice and sugar or assemble the trifle. [![bbq menu ideas: sweet corn doughnuts](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/sweet-corn-doughnuts-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) ## 35\. [Sweet Corn Doughnut Holes](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sweet-corn-doughnuts) - Time Commitment: 55 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, special occasion-worthy - Serves: 8 Warning: These are as irresistible as they look. The secret to this unexpected pick’s cream filling, which just so happens to be light as air and remarkably fluffy? A boatload of whipped corn kernels. (Just trust the process, OK?) [![bbq menu ideas: chocolate chip cookie dough dip](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/04/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip-recipe.jpg?fit=728%2C921)](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) ## 36\. [Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip](https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-dip) - Time Commitment: 5 minutes - Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, \<10 ingredients, make ahead, no bake - Serves: 6 to 8 You’ll never be too old to dunk a graham cracker (or spoon) into this nostalgic dip. Serve this BBQ menu idea alongside a simple [s’mores](https://www.purewow.com/food/smores-recipes) station, and you’ll officially be crowned the hostess with the mostest. * ![taryn pire 3](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/07/taryn-pire-3.jpg?resize=250%2C250) ### Food Editor - Spearheads PureWow's food vertical - Manages PureWow's recipe vertical and newsletter - Studied English and writing at Ithaca College *
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