The Complete Checklist for the Perfect Colorado Outdoor Kitchen BBQ
Can you smell it in the air? If it’s summer, then you’re probably catching the unmistakable scent of barbecue from someone’s backyard. Who knows, maybe it’s your own backyard landscape that’s creating that summer smell. For many, when you’re building an Colorado outdoor kitchen, having a space to enjoy a summer BBQ is one of your top priorities. Especially when the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, it’s hard not to be tempted to get behind the grill and turn up the heat.
But, for most of us, it’s been some time since we’ve had one of those classic outdoor kitchen BBQs, which means you might be a little rusty or missing a few BBQ essentials. Well, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’re taking a closer look at outdoor kitchens and how you can create the perfect summer BBQ. Follow our checklist to make sure you’ve got what you need to get the summer started right.
WHAT IS AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN?
It seems pretty obvious to define what an outdoor kitchen is, right? After all, it’s all in the name. An outdoor kitchen allows you to bring all the fun and creativity of your cooking space to the great outdoors. With an outdoor kitchen, you can spend more time in your backyard landscape and truly appreciate every aspect of your property. Additionally, an outdoor kitchen can add value to your home and provide a space to entertain and spend time with all of your family and
friends (and maybe your neighbors, too).
But an outdoor kitchen isn’t just one thing. There’s no set blueprint or pre-defined model for what your outdoor kitchen can be or what it will look like. Depending on the size of your space, your goals—and, of course, your budget—there are many different ways you can design your very own outdoor kitchen. Some homeowners go for the whole kitchen by including cabinets, countertops, and an array of outdoor kitchen appliances.
YOUR CHECKLIST FOR THE PERFECT OUTDOOR KITCHEN BBQ
Ready for your perfect outdoor kitchen BBQ? But don’t get ahead of yourself. Before inviting over your friends and family to enjoy your outdoor kitchen, there’s a few things you should keep in mind. To make sure you’re ready to grill like the best of them, we’ve compiled a checklist for the perfect summer BBQ.
Take a look at some of the things you definitely won’t want to forget:
1. Grilling utensils.
Before you heat up the grill, make sure you have all the appropriate tools. A stainless steel set including tongs, a spatula, and a grilling fork are absolutely essential to get your summer BBQ started. You should also have flame-resistant gloves and an apron to keep you safe while manning the grill. And of course, depending on the type of grill you have, make sure you’ve got plenty of charcoal or propane.
2. The main course.
If you’re planning on hosting a summer BBQ without a selection of meats, you may end up with more than a few unhappy guests. The main course of any classic summer BBQ includes a variety of meats and flavors. And now with so many meatless meat options, even your meat-free friends will have some delicious options.
But let’s stick with your staples first. The perfect outdoor kitchen BBQ may include steaks, burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, brisket, or grilled fish and seafood (if you haven’t tried shrimp on your grill yet, this is the year to do it). To round out the main course, popular BBQ sides include corn on the cob, grilled veggies pasta salad, coleslaw, rolls or garlic bread. Don’t forget some fresh fruit for your summer BBQ, especially when so many delicious options come into season during this time.
3. Drinks.
You’re bound to get thirsty outside grilling all day, so make sure that you have some of your favorite beverages on hand for your summer BBQ. When hosting this event in your backyard landscape, you should try a variety of beverages to suit everyone’s taste. If you’re serving beer, wine, or cocktails for the adults, you can use an outdoor bar car to whip up your favorite drinks. Some outdoor kitchens even feature an entire bar area to craft cocktails. But don’t forget to have some non-alcoholic options, too, such as water, soda, or lemonade.
4. BBQ condiments.
Burgers and hot dogs are a great start, but no summer BBQ could be called complete without some of your essential condiments. For many of us, a hot dog without ketchup and mustard just isn’t the same. To round out your BBQ supplies, have some ketchup, mustard, salt and pepper, and salsa on hand. Having some spice rub for your BBQ meats can also bring more flavor to your BBQ creations.
5. Backyard entertainment.
Having some fun and games in your backyard landscape can really take your summer BBQ to the next level. To keep your guests entertained, a bocce ball set or some horseshoes are easy to incorporate for even smaller yards. Board games or a deck of cards can be great for those just looking to relax.
CONCLUSION – THE COMPLETE CHECKLIST FOR THE PERFECT OUTDOOR KITCHEN BBQ
As summer comes around, many of us remember just how much we enjoy our backyard landscape. The weather is getting nicer, which means that you shouldn’t be stuck inside—even if you’re making lunch, dinner, or grilling up some meat. By creating your very own outdoor kitchen, you can spend more time outdoors, add value to your home, and have a new space to entertain and spend time with family and friends.
One of the most popular activities over the summer, of course, is your classic outdoor kitchen BBQ. Bring the heat this summer with your favorite meats and grilled culinary creations. Before you begin, don’t forget all your essential grilling utensils and those condiments that are easy to overlook but absolutely bring it all together. Throw in your favorite drinks and some backyard entertainment, and you’re officially ready for grilling season.
- by Matt Watts
