Beloved BBQ Fare…Reimagined
Barbecue season is in full swing and while standard hamburgers and hot dogs are always expected, why not upgrade the menu? I’m sharing some super sides, mouthwatering main dishes and even a refreshing beverage to help wash everything down. These recipes are a fun change of pace and palate-pleasing. Grab your apron, spatula and appetite—this cookout is going to be off the charts.
Beloved BBQ Fare Gets a Makeover
Barbecue season is in full swing and while standard hamburgers and hot dogs are always expected, why not upgrade the menu? I’m sharing some super sides, mouthwatering main dishes and even a refreshing beverage to help wash it all down. They’re a fun change of pace and palate-pleasing. Grab your apron, spatula and appetite—this cookout is going to be off the charts.
Beloved BBQ Fare: LaCroix Pastèque Cucumber Spa Water
LaCroix Pastèque Cucumber Spa Water
Watermelon is—simply put—a WOW fruit, devoured in the summertime because it’s sweet, juicy and hydrating. Whether you slice it into a wedge, cube it into perfect squares or use a melon baller to scoop it into spheres, it’s just plain fun to eat. As a kid, I remember having seed-spitting contests as we worked through our wedges, though these days, we can enjoy the convenience of seedless watermelons. This vibrant spa water combines two produce standouts and LaCroix Pastèque Sparkling Water for some fizzy fun. (Pastèque is French for watermelon—some fancy trivia to share at your next cookout.) This is the ultimate summer sip because it’s cool, colorful and totally refreshing.
Beloved BBQ Fare: Apple Cider Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a backyard BBQ staple. In this version, I skip the mayo and use apple cider vinegar instead. In addition to the crunchy cabbage, I toss in carrots, scallions and dried cranberries for beautiful color and layers of complementary flavor. You can serve as a side or add to the top of your burger, sandwich or salad. Whatever way you prefer, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Beloved BBQ Fare: BLT Pasta Salad
Bacon makes everything better, right? It’s certainly true of this pasta salad, which combines rotini or fusilli, baby arugula, cherry tomatoes and turkey bacon, as well as a creamy, dreamy Bacon Buttermilk Dressing. Of course, you are free to personalize your dish–you can add feta or mozzarella pearls or swap the dressing for Italian and add the toppings of your choice, including jalapeños, diced chicken or avocado to name just a few. Whether you’re hosting or are a guest, you’re sure to see smiles when you bring out this breathtaking bowl.
Beloved BBQ Fare: Sausage in Sweet Potato “Buns”
Sausage in Sweet Potato “Buns”
So many folks are looking for clever ways to cut carbs. This recipe gives you a way to do that and still satisfy that hot-dog-in-a-bun craving. Simply choose your favorite poultry sausage and stuff it into a large, semi-hollowed-out roasted and split sweet potato. Bonus: You score some beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. It’s so yummy!
Beloved BBQ Fare: Tex-Mex Burgers
Bump up the nutrition of your burger by adding beans, sweet corn and some tangy barbecue sauce. Then you can decide to go jumbo and enjoy biting into a juicy, mouthwatering masterpiece… or, make them mini and serve up a platter of sliders. I like to set up a toppings bar, including lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, pickles, and so on, and let my family and friends build their own creations. These Tex-Mex winners just might be the star of the show.
