BBQ
Choose a centrepiece
Begin with the dish that needs the most attention. Read its cooking and resting steps, then choose sides that fit around them. Avoid several recipes that all demand the hottest part of the grate at the same moment.
Use the kitchen as an ally
A salad, a cold sauce or bread can give the table variety without using grill space. You can also prepare some components ahead according to their recipes and safe storage guidance. Cooking outdoors does not require every element of the meal to touch a flame.
Write a short order of work
List preparation, lighting, cooking, resting and serving. Treat times as estimates and leave room for the main dish to take longer. Use a food thermometer for safety decisions rather than forcing the meal to meet a timetable.
Keep the first menu repeatable
Try our chicken skewers with charred vegetables and a simple salad, or choose salmon with ember potatoes and a lemon dressing. Once a combination works for your cooker and your table, repeat it with a small seasonal change. Confidence grows when you can recognise what made the meal successful.
An original BBQ Stories article, prepared with AI assistance. Our editorial approach
