Summer is the season of sunshine, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of cured meats and vegetables sizzling away on the grill. 

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie with tongs in hand, these tips will help you host the perfect summer barbecue!

Preparing for the Barbecue

First things first: devise a plan and get all the grilling essentials together so you’re set up for success!

1. Plan Ahead

Start with a plan. Check the weather forecast (nobody likes a soggy burger), make a guest list, and decide on your menu. Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve will make everything smoother.

2. Clean Your Grill

A clean grill is a happy grill. Scrub off any leftover gunk from your last cookout. Your taste buds and your guests will thank you!

3. Stock Up

Make sure you have all the essentials: charcoal or propane, grilling tools, and plenty of plates, cups, and napkins.

4. Marinate in Advance

Marinate your meats the night before. This not only saves time but also infuses your dishes with extra flavor. Ziploc bags work wonders for this.

Get the Good Vibes Flowing

Part of hosting a successful barbecue is creating an excellent atmosphere for your guests! Here are a few ways to achieve this:

1. Decor: Create a festive atmosphere with simple decorations. Think colorful tablecloths, string lights, and paper lanterns. A few mason jars filled with wildflowers (snag a u-pick bouquet from nearby Antheia of Chelan!) add a charming touch.

2. Music: Curate a playlist that complements the vibe of your barbecue. Upbeat, feel-good tunes are always a hit. Think classic rock, reggae, or laid-back acoustic tracks.

3. Games: Keep the fun going with some backyard games. Cornhole, frisbee, or a simple deck of cards can keep guests entertained while they wait for their food.

4. Comfortable Seating: Ensure there’s plenty of seating for everyone. Scatter a few blankets and cushions on the lawn for a relaxed picnic feel, and have lawn chairs at the ready for those requiring more back support!

Barbecue Menu Ideas

Now that you’re prepped and ready, here are suggested menu items to get the barbecue fun started!

Appetizers

Kick things off with some light bites to get everyone in the mood:

• Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful and healthy, veggie skewers make a great complement to grilled meat. 

Thread bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and zucchini onto skewers, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender. Bonus points if you use fresh veg from your summer garden!

• Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini bell peppers with cream cheese, herbs, and a dash of garlic powder. These bite-sized goodies are as easy to eat as they are to make.

Mains

Now for the star of the show—the main course:

• Classic Burgers: You can’t go wrong with a juicy burger. Use high-quality ground beef, season well with salt and pepper, and grill to perfection. Offer a variety of toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles.
• BBQ Ribs: For something a bit more decadent, slow-cooked BBQ ribs are a showstopper. Rub them with a blend of spices, slow cook in the oven, and finish them off on the grill with your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Grilled Chicken Wings: Marinate wings in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Grill until crispy and golden brown.

Drinks 

Keep the refreshments flowing with these crowd-pleasers:

• Lemonade Stand: Set up a DIY lemonade stand with classic lemonade, sparkling water, and a variety of fruit purees like strawberry, raspberry, and peach. Let guests mix their own fruity concoctions.
• Summer Sangria: Mix white wine with peach schnapps, orange juice, and a splash of soda water. Add slices of citrus fruits, berries, and mint leaves. Serve chilled.

Be sure to keep a cooler stocked full of a variety of canned beverages too, including non-alcoholic options and water!

Get Your Grill on at Mountain View Lodge’s Pavilion

Did you know Mountain View Lodge & Resort has a spacious pavilion complete with grills and seating? Not only that, but we have a full set of kitchen utensils for guest use, so you don’t have to worry about acquiring the proper equipment!

The pavilion is the perfect spot to end a day on the lake. Don’t hesitate to ask us for all the barbecue recommendations during your stay so we can make it a great cookout!

Book online or give us a call today to book your summer stay in the Lake Chelan Valley. We look forward to hosting you!