Is there anything better than a backyard BBQ?! I think not. A time to bond with the people you heart, bust out delicious food and enjoy a few drinks as the sun beams down gloriously. Dreamy, right?! Too bad I don’t have a backyard! We all make sacrifices in life and one of mine was to live downtown sans backyard. And although I host tons of people on my condo patio, it’s never quite the same as the grassy, spacious backyards my friends have. So you can imagine how excited I get when they invite me over for an afternoon BBQ in the yard! Especially when the invite comes from a hostess with the mostest…
For those who don’t know Lena, she is a work-at-home-mom and media darling extraordinaire. Someone I deeply respect and love spending time with. She also happens to be one of the most hospitable people I know. So it’s only natural that I went to her for some summer backyard BBQ tips before hosting a party of my own (condo-edition). Here are her three steps to summer BBQ bliss:
Step One: Chip, Dip, Repeat.
Remember, the most memorable barbecues are the ones that serve simple foods that everyone loves. To start, grab classic ripple chips and fresh veggies, and serve them with this to-die-for (trust me!) Creamy Taco Dip. The dip has only five ingredients – Greek yogurt, Great Value Light Cream Cheese, crumbled feta cheese, Great Value Taco Seasoning Mix and chives. Mix them all together and try not to lick the bowl. It’s that addictive!
Step Two: Build a Better Burger.
Did you know that Great Value Beef Burgers are juicy, tender and taste great? I won’t blame you if you’ve never tried them, because I – being a bit of a burger snob – just didn’t have them on my radar. At all.
But you know what? I’m officially converted. Not only are they a great value (see what I did there?) they’re made with 100% Canadian beef and cook quickly and evenly, especially when grilled. And while they are delicious on their own, here’s a chance to elevate your guests’ experience – with kicked-up toppings! Make a secret burger sauce by combining Great Value Real Mayonnaise with Great Value Sweet Green Relish, Great Value Prepared Yellow Mustard and Great Value Tomato Ketchup. It’ll add a certain je ne sais quoi and it’s the perfect way to let your barbecue stand out.
Step Three: Finish with a Flourish.
DIY dessert bars are high on the list of “must-dos” at your summer barbecue. And since we’re enjoying long, hazy and humid days, what better way to cool off than with a cold scoop of ice cream?
First, grab a few of your favourite ice cream flavours. I vote for Great Value Cotton Candy, Great Value Cowmooflage (a fun mix of chocolate, vanilla and caramel flavours) or Great Value Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Then, break out the toppings! Let your guests scoop their own ice cream and create a sweet masterpiece. Offer everything from gummy candy to candy-coated chocolates. For an extra special touch, make these Edible Ice Cream Bowls. They’re a neat way to increase the “wow” factor, and hey, less cleanup for you!
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