Planning BBQ menus doesn't have to be complicated. While many stick to the classics like hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and sausages, there's room for creativity with BBQ ideas. Side dishes such as potato salad, pasta salad, baked beans, macaroni salad, flavorful sauces, and green salads are typical. However, it's always fun to venture beyond the usual and experiment with new BBQ ideas to excite outdoor gatherings.
When planning a new and fun BBQ menu, think of the themes of the main dishes to create a cohesive meal. You can grill almost any meat—chicken thighs, chicken wings, or a juicy brisket (though some may be more challenging). You can also grill or heat veggies and bread on the grill. Side dishes can help expand on a theme and accentuate grilled items.
Below are some themed BBQ menu ideas:
Bbq Style Surf-N-Turf Menu
Marinate melted butter-fried jumbo shrimp in lime juice, garlic, and hot sauce before skewering them (kabob style) and grilling them. Use beef filets or tender steaks to complete the turf portion of the surf and turf. For a glamorous meal, serve with a mixed green salad of fresh vegetables dressed with simple apple cider vinegar vinaigrette.
Using indirect heat on the gas grill, you can also heat fresh baguette garlic bread until crispy.
Hawaiian Style BBQ Menu
Relying on the classic pairings and a delicious recipe of sweet and salty tastes, this menu capitalizes on the classic ham and pineapple combination loved by many. Pork chops can be brined ahead of time and then grilled. Use a sweet and tart glaze (concentrated fruit juices work well) to keep the meat tender and flavorful. Thick slices of pineapple can be grilled as well. Use them to top the pork chops with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge for a delicious dessert. Pair the pork chops with a nutty rice pilaf for a great meal.
Italian Style BBQ Menu
Use classic Italian spices and herbs to create a unique and flavorful menu. Rub sage and thyme on grilled chicken, then top it with sun-dried tomatoes and roasted garlic. Combine baby Yukon Gold potatoes with rosemary sprigs and a light coating of olive oil, then roast them on the grill for a great side dish. Skewer and lightly grill cherry tomatoes until their skins start to blister. Use the roasted tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and whole basil leaves for a new take on a caprese fresh salad as an appetizer.
Asian Style BBQ Menu
A delicate soy and citrus glaze can add a great flavor to grilled foods. Mix a low-sodium soy sauce with fruit juice and ginger to create a glaze. Reserve part of the glaze to be used as a dipping sauce. Marinate veggies and juicy meat in the BBQ sauce before grilling. Serve the grilled foods with rice and the reserved dipping sauce.
Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just starting, these BBQ ideas offer a delicious array of options to elevate your outdoor cooking experience. From sizzling meats seasoned to perfection to tantalizing side dishes bursting with flavor, there's something to satisfy every palate. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and create unforgettable moments with these fantastic BBQ ideas. With a bit of creativity and delicious food, your next barbecue will surely be a hit!
