Try some of my simple touches to make your next backyard BBQ feel more special, and turn lounging at home into something memorable this summer.
This post is sponsored by Smirnoff. All opinions are my own.
Today I’m talking all about making the most of being at home during this time by taking the opportunity to slow down and enjoy some of life’s simple pleasures.
Things like fresh air, sunshine, a beautifully set table, a home cooked meal eaten outside, relaxing music and a cold beverage will make any backyard BBQ feel special, no matter the size or occasion. Keep reading for some simple ideas to make your next outdoor meal feel more memorable!
To start, Smirnoff’s Limited Edition Red, White & Berry Seltzer is officially my go-to beverage for every day summer celebrations. It’s crisp, bubbly and super refreshing thanks to natural flavors like cherry, lemon, as well as blue raspberry.
With zero grams of sugar, 1 gram of carbs, only 90 calories and no artificial sweeteners, it makes for light effervescent sipping that pairs well with just about any backyard BBQ dish. For a fun summer twist, the can changes color from white to blue when cold, which I love as a festive way to celebrate upcoming summer holidays like Memorial Day and 4th of July.
Set the table
My key to an easy, uncomplicated table that still feels chic is to keep it neutral. I like to keep plates, serving platters and linens on hand in neutral, muted tones such as white, gray, cream and light blue so that pieces mix and match easily. Rustic textures add understated interest, and flowers don’t need to be fussy either. Often I will simply snip a few lavender buds or roses straight from the garden and plop them into a vase.
Make a playlist
Music is one of my favorite ways to liven up a backyard hang, whether it’s the hubs and I unwinding after work or a more social gathering with friends. Typically I like to play a mix of chill beats and upbeat songs, and I recommend having a go-to playlist ready so you’re not fumbling over song choices during the meal. Click here for a backyard bbq playlist I created on Spotify that’s perfect for summertime lounging!
Easy Backyard BBQ recipe ideas from the blog
As we head into the warmer months, there is no better time to take your meals outside. Check out this menu I created for a dreamy backyard BBQ, from starters to dessert, featuring seasonal recipes straight from the blog:
- Grilled Peach Bruschetta
- Quinoa Sliders with Green Goddess Aioli
- Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
- Marinated Zucchini Salad with Feta
- Potato Green Bean Salad with Herbs
- Apricot Skillet Cobbler
The only rule for backyard BBQ beverages in my book is that they should be light and refreshing! You can’t go wrong with Smirnoff’s hard seltzer, especially when it’s served with a touch of freshness from lemon slices, raspberries and a sprig of mint.
Smirnoff Red, White & Berry Seltzer is available for consumers of legal drinking age to order through Drizly, the technology company powering on-demand delivery of alcohol. Simply download the Drizly app to a smartphone, and with a few clicks you can have it delivered right to your doorstep.
