Backyard BBQ

Spring is near, which means it’s prime grilling time! My Backyard BBQ menu can be prepped almost entirely ahead- save tossing the salad and grilling the meat. This is a fun, easy, vibrant menu… and an entertaining plan where you have plenty of time for sipping on cool drinks and enjoying time with friends basking in the late afternoon sun ?.

The Southerly

You want a drink that can stand up to a spicy BBQ sauce, but one that won’t weigh you down on a sun drenched patio. Enter the Southerly. A bourbon-based cocktail perfect for your backyard gathering. The lime and ginger beer keep it refreshing and light.

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World’s Best Maple Cornbread

Cornbread can sometimes be dry and crumbly… but not this one! Sweet, moist, and with the rich and toasty flavor of brown butter, your guests will be begging for the recipe. If you like a little spice, try slicing some jalapeños and mixing them in the batter.

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Strawberry & Asparagus Salad with Toasted Almonds

Tossing fruit into salads is a fantastic way to add that “wow” factor with little effort. Sweet, juicy strawberries perfectly compliment the asparagus, almonds, and tangy vinaigrette. A stellar spring salad.

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Chipotle Maple Barbecue Sauce

If you are looking for a scrumptious, crowd-pleasing sauce, look no further. This has been my go-to for grilled chicken for years, and I can’t imagine anything taking its place anytime soon. Sweet and smoky, it’s versatile enough for chicken, shrimp, or meat.

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Key Lime Parfaits

The ultimate make-ahead dessert for a warm, al fresco evening. Scale the recipe to feed your crowd, layering the filling and graham cracker crumbs in mason jars. Easy, grab-and-go treats that don’t require extra plating. Since it’s no-bake, you can even assemble these in clear plastic cups for a super simple clean up!