When your family comes to visit and you have to make enough food for everyone including your distant cousins, it's easy to just decide to grill some burgers and hot dogs, maybe open a bag of chips too. But you have to make the most of these bright sunny days while they're here, so it's best to throw a barbecue you'd be happy to visit yourself, and let the tasty food you grill be your own reward.
We've collected some of our favorite summer dishes that will be the hit of any party. There are sumptuous main courses and satisfying desserts.
So fire up the grill, learn from the masters and try one of these great recipes.
1. Aloha barbecue sliders
The grilled pineapple and brown sugar sauce add a sweet dash of Hawaiian flavor to these bite-sized burgers. Say aloha to these and you'll be glad you did!
Get the recipe here.
2. Pork tacos with honey mustard slaw
These tacos have a little bit of everything, creamy coleslaw, tangy honey mustard flavor and savory pork. Plus, they're a snap to throw together, because everything is made in your slow cooker.
Get the recipe here.
3. Slow cooker pork pulled pork sandwiches
This recipe is simple but so, so delicious. You can choose which soda you add to the mix for flavor, but we're in love with the combination of sweet Dr. Pepper and juicy pork.
Get the recipe here.
4. Crock pot baby back ribs
You can't go wrong a with a classic! Roll up your sleeves and dig into this messy family favorite. Using Coca-Cola to flavor the meat also makes it so tender it almost falls off the bone.
Get the recipe here.
Click the next page for more recipes, including a grilled chocolate dessert!
5. Grilled banana boats
Hey, even barbecues need a tasty dessert! In just minutes you can make a mouthwatering twist on the s'more that's served inside a banana. This version adds breakfast cereal to the mix for some extra crunch, but you can get creative with other toppings like peanut butter, Nutella, caramel sauce or marshmallow fluff.
Get the recipe here.
6. Mexican corn on the cob
The ultimate barbecue side dish, this cheesy and flavorful corn dish will add a little spice to your family gathering. The corn just cooks in the oven, but the toppings - including Mexican cheese - make this irresistible!
Get the recipe here.
7. Grilled shrimp with honey ginger barbecue sauce
Even if picky eaters at your party say they don't like seafood, the sweet and tangy sauce will make it an exception. You can grill these and serve them as a side or a main course.
Get the recipe here.
8. Barbecue chili
This recipe makes a big serving, which is great when you have company over. Just don't expect any leftovers, because the hearty mix of beans, ground beef and spices will have people coming back for seconds.
Get the recipe here.
9. Chicken, tomato and corn foil packs
Tin foil is a very versatile way to cook on the grill, and you can't go wrong with this healthy dish that combines grilled chicken and veggies. It's like a personal-sized casserole, and the foil does all the work.
Get the recipe here.
Share this list if you found a recipe you can't wait to try!