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4 Creative BBQ Tips & Tricks to Elevate Your Summer Cookouts
Summer is in full swing, which means it’s officially BBQ season! Whether you’re planning a casual backyard gathering or a full-blown al fresco feast, a few clever tricks can go a long way in turning your BBQ into a seamless hosting experience.
Sebastien Centner recently stopped by Breakfast Television to share some of his favourite BBQ hacks that will elevate your summer gatherings with ease and a touch of flair.
1. Hack of The Summer: Protect Your Drinks From Bugs
Let’s start with something as practical as it is pretty: the Spritz Station. Think of it as a self-serve bar with a refreshing twist. Fill pitchers or carafes with sparkling water, club soda, or light spirits like Aperol and Limoncello, then add bowls of citrus slices, fresh herbs, and berries. Guests can build their custom spritzes; it’s interactive, easy, and totally Instagram-worthy.
Hosting Hack: Want to keep bugs out of your drinks without sacrificing style? Flip a colourful muffin liner upside down over the glass and poke a straw through the center. It’s playful, bright, and keeps your spritz safe from any uninvited insects.
2. Serve Smarter: The Condiment Hack You Didn’t Know You Needed
Condiments are a must for any BBQ, but passing around half-used bottles or running back and forth from the kitchen? Not so much. Instead, grab a muffin tin and use each cup to hold a different topping: ketchup, mustard, relish, aioli, chopped onions, pickles… You name it.
It keeps everything contained in one neat spot and looks much more thoughtful than a cluttered row of bottles. For an extra polished touch, label each section using a washable white marker. It’s a helpful trick and adds a personalized detail guests will notice!
3. Mini Bites, Major Fun: A Tasty Hack You’ll Love
Here’s a tip we love: when it comes to BBQ mains, make it mini. Swap full-size burgers and dogs for sliders, mini hot dogs, or small skewers. Not only are they easier to handle (no awkward bites here), but they let guests sample a bit of everything without committing to just one item.
It turns your BBQ into more of a tasting experience, perfect for customizing with different toppings and sauces. It’s fun, flight-friendly, and encourages guests to get creative. Bonus: it also helps reduce food waste and keeps the vibe light and casual.
4. Here’s a Sweet Tip: Serve Watermelon Fries Instead of Fruit Salad
Of course, no BBQ is complete without something sweet, and this next tip is as simple as it is clever. Instead of serving a basic fruit platter, turn fresh watermelon into “fries” by slicing it into stick-shaped pieces. Pair with a creamy yogurt dip (you can even mix in a bit of honey and lime zest), and you’ve got a snack that’s both kid-approved and adult-friendly.
Not only is it easier to grab and eat than a traditional fruit salad, but it looks great on the table and adds a pop of colour to your spread. It’s the kind of treat that disappears quickly, so don’t be surprised if you’re making a second batch before the party’s over.
What we love most about these BBQ hacks is that they blend function with fun, which is exactly what summer hosting should be. With a little planning and a few creative touches, you can elevate your BBQ from a simple cookout to a full-fledged experience.