Was that a bird singing? Could those be little green leaves starting to peek out on that tree? Oh, sweet! Your tax refund just hit. Yep, it looks like spring is finally around the corner, or even already here — and that’s great news for people who love to grill. Getting ready to wake up your grill from its long winter nap? Thinking about hosting a spring barbecue for your friends and family? The pitmasters at Grilla Grills have done it many a time, and we’re here to help! Up ahead, we’ve got a smorgasbord of key tips that will help you plan the perfect spring cookout.
Look, in our opinion, nobody actually needs an excuse to throw a barbecue. All the same, it can be fun to have your spring cookout as part of some kind of celebration or event! Some popular occasions include:
These are basic considerations for a barbecue in any season. First, think about how many guests you can comfortably accommodate in your space (and, equally important, how many you’re actually going to enjoy having). Some people like to have a more intimate gathering in the cooler days of spring, then go all-out on a larger party in the summer. (What — you weren’t just going to have one cookout, right?)
Deciding how much food you want can be trickier, so check out our BBQ food planner for some useful rules. Foods like burgers and hot dogs are popular because they’re easy to cook in big batches, so you can easily buy a little more than you think you’ll need to create some wiggle room. Alternatively, a pellet grill and smoker is a fantastic tool for cooking large amounts of delicious smoked meat. Throw on a pork butt or a couple of spatchcocked chickens, and you’ll have plenty to feed the crowd.
Most people serve at least one kind of meat as the centerpiece of their cookout. We’ll assume you already know about the time-honored cookout favorites like burgers and hot dogs, which are still great for keeping it simple. If you’d like something a little more substantial, try:
Pork can have a deliciously fresh vibe that’s perfect for spring. Flavors like vinegar, onion and garlic will bring out pork’s lighter side while maintaining the satisfying, savory richness that makes it a BBQ staple. It’s also one of the easier meats to smoke, and tons of different cuts are available, from the classic pork shoulder to the delectably tender pork belly.
It’s hard to go wrong with chicken — it’s easy and delicious, and you can do it in tons of different ways. The mild flavor of chicken means it tastes great with a wide variety of seasonings, although we’re admittedly partial to the Grilla Grills What Da Cluck dry rub. Try it, and you’ll understand.
Lamb is a true spring classic that many people grew up seeing cooked in an oven for Easter dinner. However, if you’ve never had lamb from a wood-fired smoker, let’s just say you need to fix that right away! If you have access to a good butcher, ask if they have spring lamb — it’s known for its incredibly tender texture.
Finally, if you want to go with something heartier for your spring entree, beef is always a reliable choice. Burgers are a classic, of course — but if you’re up for the challenge, something bigger and bolder like a brisket can be an incredible way to start the grilling season off right. Whatever cuts you’re cooking, remember that Grilla Beef Rub is a must!
Naturally, any cookout also needs a good selection of beverages. Start with some non-alcoholic beverages that anybody can enjoy like water, sparkling water and lemon or limeade. If you’re planning to serve alcohol, here are some can’t-miss choices for adult beverages:
It’s time to hit the farmer’s market! Spring is packed with amazing vegetables and fruit that make delicious and healthy sides, salads or even main courses. What’s fresh and local will vary by where you are and whether it’s early or late spring, but be on the lookout for produce like:
Spring is the angsty teenager of the seasons — pleasant one day, storming the next. Setting a rain date from the beginning is a good idea, as is making a plan for what you’ll do if it starts to rain during the cookout.
Typically, the most important preparation is to have your grill in a covered area (or at least to have one accessible) if rain starts. You’re looking for a place with a roof where your grill will be protected from rain — a carport, porch or covered patio is ideal if you have one. What you definitely don’t want is an enclosed space (such as a garage), which can cause deadly carbon monoxide fumes to build up.
While we’re talking weather, let’s touch on another spring favorite: wind. Any outdoor spring event should plan around it so you don’t end up with napkins and decorations blowing all over the place. Items like napkins and paper plates should ideally be in a heavier container that will keep them in place, and decorations should be tied down or otherwise secured.
Before you fire up the grill, take a little time to make sure it’s in fighting form. Your must-do tasks will usually include:
For a full spring maintenance checklist (plus cleaning tips), see our guide to getting your grill ready for spring!
As we mentioned before, a spring cookout can still be on the chilly side, especially early in the year. That has one big upside, though: It’s perfect bonfire weather! Your guests will love having a cozy fire to warm themselves around, especially after dark, and you can make s’mores for a delicious dessert to follow up your BBQ.
You’ll want to make sure you’ve got a suitable fire pit for building the fire. For those who already have one, check that it’s in good condition and then get it going! If you don’t have a fire pit yet, spring is a great time to get one, since you can enjoy it all through the summer and fall. Alternatively, it’s not too hard to build your own if you’re the DIY type.
Browse All of Our Delicious Recipes
By now, you’re probably thinking up all kinds of delicious ideas for your spring shindig! Now it’s time to go out and make them happen — with a little help from your Grilla grill, of course. If you haven’t stepped up to a Grilla yet, see our whole lineup of pellet grills and find one that will keep you cookin’ all year round.
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