Prepare for the perfect 4th of July

This week is the busiest week of the year for most grills and barbecues.  Happy July 4th to everyone!  Get out there and make some hamburgers and hot dogs.  If you are feeling adventurous try a few of the following.  I have prepared a list of some of my favorite summer dishes.

Main Dishes

Onion Slice Burger

It is a basic burger that impresses every time.  The onion is grilled directly into the burger.  Awesome!!  Onion slice burgers.

BBQ Ribs on a Gas Grill

Ribs are great, but not everyone has a smoker.  So I have written up the step by step instructions for smoking ribs on a gas grill. Click Here to learn how.

Competition Beef Brisket

If you want to impress your friends and family, there is nothing that will do it faster than a perfectly cooked beef brisket.  This recipe will take you through process of cooking a competition grade bbq brisket.  Competition Beef Brisket.

Grilled Lobster Tails

Nothing says summer like, fresh seafood on the grill.  Nothing beats grilled lobster tails. Click here for more information.

Grilled Lobster Rolls

Now that you have grilled lobster tails down, mix the meat up and make some amazing lobster rolls.  Simple and delicious.  Click here for the recipe.

Side Dishes

 Perfect Macaroni Salad

There isn’t a single side dish that can beat macaroni salad at a barbecue.  It is an American tradition.  I have a few to choose from.

• Macaroni Salad
• Macaroni Salad Part Deux
• Margherita Pasta Salad
• Spaghetti Salad

Awesome Cole Slaw

Another must have side is coleslaw.  I did my best and finally recreated the Colonel’s Coleslaw from the famous Chicken Restaurant.  So good you have to try it.

Condiments

Homemade Ketchup

If you want to spice up your barbecue, try some homemade ketchup.  You can add as much spice or herbs as you want. It will add a little twist to your favorite burger. Homemade Ketchup Recipe.

Homemade Mustard

Homemade mustard will definitely perk up your guests.  Using dark seeds will make your mustard spicier and the addition of honey can add a little bit of sweetness.  Homemade Mustard Recipe.

Cocktails

Grilled Vodka Lemonade

While you are outside entertaining and have the grill hot, make a cocktail that will impress your guests.  Nothing does this better than a grilled cocktail. This cocktail is a hit each and every time that I make it.  Grilled Vodka Lemonade Spritzer.

 Passion Fruit Pina Coladas

Passion fruit pina coladas scream summer.  This is the perfect cocktail to start off the summer.  Passion Fruit Pina Colada.

Red White and Blue Layered Shot

In honor of this beautiful country of ours, have a shot.   A red, white and blue shot to be exact.

Tips and Tricks

Turn your Weber kettle into the best bbq smoker that money can buy.

The recipe is for beef ribs, but the process to turn your Weber kettle into a power smoker is in there too.  Check it out on how to turn your Weber kettle into the best smoker around. Click to see how.

Have a happy 4th of July!  Enjoy the weather and have fun grilling.

-Rex