Cookouts
Outdoor entertaining at its best
There’s something about eating outside that makes a gathering feel a little more relaxed. Maybe it’s the fresh air, the smell of food on the grill, or the fact that nobody minds if things aren’t perfect. Whether you’re cooking for a few friends or feeding a backyard full of guests, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for keeping your cookout simple and fun.
These Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze are an easy choice when you want a fresh appetizer recipe that looks as good as it tastes. The individual servings are colorful, easy to eat and simple to put together without any cooking.
This bruschetta pasta salad takes the fresh flavors of the classic Italian appetizer and turns them into a satisfying pasta salad. It’s an easy make-ahead side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, potlucks or weeknight dinners, and tastes just as good the next day.
These watermelon caprese skewers combine juicy watermelon, creamy mozzarella, savory prosciutto and fresh basil for an easy summer appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. They’re quick to assemble, require no cooking, and are perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to cocktail parties.
The main dish may get all the attention, but the right side dishes can make your cookout memorable. These fresh summer salads, flavorful dips, and other backyard barbecue favorites pair perfectly with anything coming off the grill.
This Greek yogurt blue cheese dip is creamy, tangy, and full of bold flavor, so it makes wings, chips, crackers, or fresh veggies taste even better. It only takes a few minutes to stir together, but tastes so much better than store-bought dip. And since it’s made with Greek yogurt, it has a rich, creamy…
If you’re looking for a fun, grown-up treat for your 4th of July spread, these boozy cherry bombs are always a hit. Juicy cherries soaked in alcohol, dipped in white chocolate, and finished with blue sprinkles turn into an easy party bite that disappears fast.
If you’re planning a 4th of July cookout, the side dishes are just as important as what’s coming off the grill. From colorful red, white and blue dishes to classic crowd-pleasers that everyone expects at a backyard barbecue, these easy recipes are guaranteed to disappear fast.
These are some of my best summer salad recipes. They are refreshing, tasty and easy to make. Which makes them perfect for a BBQ or picnic on a hot summer day.
This cowboy pasta salad recipe is a flavorful dish that combines ground beef, bacon, and fresh veggies with a creamy dressing. It packs a punch of flavor and is the perfect side for cookouts but is hearty enough for a satisfying weeknight meal
This berry cheesecake fruit salad is a simple, no-bake dessert that combines fresh berries with a creamy cheesecake fluff. It’s a light, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion and easy enough to whip up when you’re short on time but still want something special.
Rotini pasta salad is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing at potlucks, picnics, or barbecues. With simple ingredients like tri-color rotini and Italian dressing, it’s an easy way to add a fresh, tasty side to any gathering.
If you don’t have a lot of time to spend decorating your backyard, these creative summer outdoor decor and entertaining ideas are fast and easy to do but still look pretty enough for a party.
This Greek pasta salad is a light, refreshing Mediterranean-inspired recipe packed with tangy feta, briny olives, and crisp vegetables, all brought together with flavorful Greek dressing. It’s super easy to make ahead, so it’s perfect for summer potlucks, BBQs, or whenever you want a quick, tasty side dish that everyone will love.
Having a cookout for Independence Day and need some ideas for your 4th of July menu? These tried-and-true recipes are always a big hit and can be prepared ahead of time so you have time to enjoy the party.
This 4th of July charcuterie board is a vibrant and easy-to-assemble mix of fruits, cheeses, and meats, perfect for celebrating Independence Day. Its patriotic red, white, and blue theme not only makes a stunning addition to any buffet but also serves as a versatile snack that’s sure to delight a crowd.
Creamy pasta salad is a delightful dish featuring a smooth blend of sour cream and mayonnaise, perfectly paired with cold pasta, ranch dressing mix for flavor and fresh veggies like peas and bell peppers. This refreshing salad is a crowd-pleaser at picnics and BBQs, offering a burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for…
This avocado guacamole dip recipe is a super easy party appetizer that tastes great and is actually healthy for you. Whether you’re having a Cinco de Mayo get-together or just need something to serve with chips, this is great option.
A refreshing twist on a classic cocktail, this Blueberry Moscow Mule recipe combines the tangy sweetness of blueberries and mint with the zesty kick of ginger beer. Which creates a uniquely vibrant drink perfect for any summer occasion.
These vibrant summer vodka drinks are the perfect addition to any sunny day celebration. From fruity concoctions to icy blends, these recipes promise to elevate your summer gatherings with a splash of spirited fun.
This refreshing collection of easy alcohol drinks with lemonade, features a variety of flavors from blueberry mimosas to boozy slushies. These recipes blend the tangy zest of lemonade with delightful spirits, including vodka, wine, and whiskey, to create perfect sips for any occasion.
Whether you prefer your margaritas frozen, spiced, or fruit-infused, this collection of margarita recipes offers a diverse palette of flavors to elevate your cocktail experience. From the classic blend to innovative concoctions like Watermelon Jalapeño and Yuzu Margaritas, you’re sure to find a recipe you love.
Elevate your salad game with the Best Italian Pasta Salad With Pepperoni, a dish that combines the zesty flavors of Italy with the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies and the bold taste of pepperoni. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a hearty lunch, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its colorful mix of ingredients…
Summertime is the perfect season for sipping on this cold brew lemon iced tea. This refreshing beverage is a great tasting drink for cookouts or any summer celebration.
Summertime means cookouts, and cookouts mean burgers. But not just any old burgers. We’re talking delicious, juicy turkey burgers spiced up with some lemon cilantro flavor. So heat up your grill and get ready for a tasty summer meal!
Looking for a unique and fun way to jazz up your burger bar? This toppings charcuterie board is the perfect way to put out all the condiments and fixings so your guests can build their own burger. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, transport it easily and fit everything into one compact space.…
These grilled pesto turkey burgers have a ton of flavor and don’t get dried out like some other turkey burger recipes. They’re a great addition to your summer cookout or 4th of July get-together.
Made with coconut milk, fresh strawberries and stevia, these coconut milk strawberry popsicles taste almost like a strawberry creamsicle. Except they’re healthier. And with our special way of making them in layers, they’re really pretty, too.
Summertime means cookouts, pool parties and fun in the sun. And what’s a better way to cool down than with a refreshing drink? This watermelon sangria is perfect for any summer gathering. It’s easy to make and delicious! So grab your favorite pitcher (or drink dispenser) and let’s get started.
These creamy piña colada jello shots are made with pineapple jello, coconut milk and rum. They’re super easy to make and taste like summer in a shot cup.
Beat the heat this summer with a fresh pitcher of sangria! Typically made with wine and fresh fruit plus a little brandy or rum, sangria makes a refreshing summer drink perfect for sipping by the pool, at a backyard BBQ, or on any hot summer day. And these are the best summer sangria recipes to…
This blueberry, strawberry, raspberry and lime sangria recipe uses fresh berries with rose wine and limes to add a summer twist to traditional Sangria. It’s the perfect addition to a summer party.
There are two types of people in this world: those who love bow tie pasta salad, and those who haven’t tried it yet. If you’re in the latter camp, prepare to be converted – this is one tasty dish! Loaded with veggies and a tangy Italian dressing, it’s perfect for potlucks or summer BBQs.
For an easy and delicious summer treat that doesn’t require a fancy ice cream maker, this no churn raspberry ice cream can’t be beat. It only uses 3 ingredients and only takes 10 minutes to make (plus freezing time of course!) And it’s always a hit at summer parties.
This 4 ingredient pasta salad made with pesto sauce, mozzarella balls and grape tomatoes is the perfect dish to take to a potluck dinner or any summer gathering. It’s simple to make, can be made ahead of time and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Summertime is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy a delicious grilled chicken avocado and mango salad. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and juicy mango, and the creamy avocado provides a satisfying contrast in texture.
Summertime in a glass! Made with fresh watermelon and tequila, these easy frozen watermelon margaritas are a summery version of the classic margarita. Their watermelon flavor is refreshing, delicious, and has the perfect amount of sweetness for a hot day.
