Food and Drinks
One of the best things to bring to any barbecue is additional food and drinks to share. Consider the following:
Side Dishes
Bringing a side dish is a great way to complement what the host is serving. Some good options include:
- Pasta salads – Try different pasta shapes with veggies, cheese, and dressing.
- Green salads – Make a nice tossed salad or spinach salad.
- Fruit salads – Cut up watermelon, berries, pineapple, etc.
- Vegetable platters – Chop up fresh veggies like carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes.
- Dips and spreads – Bring hummus, salsa, guacamole, or spinach dip.
- Chips and bread – Tortilla chips, pita chips, or garlic bread are always welcome.
Desserts
Offer to bring a delicious dessert such as:
- Cookies – Chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, etc.
- Brownies or blondies
- Fruit pies – Apple, peach, blueberry, etc.
- Cupcakes or cake pops
Drinks
Beverages are also appreciated at a BBQ:
- Sodas – Regular and diet varieties.
- Iced tea or lemonade – Homemade is best!
- Bottled water – Provide options besides soda.
- Wine or beer – Check with the host first about alcohol.
Grilling Contributions
Offer to bring something to grill as your contribution to the main course:
- Hamburgers and hot dogs – Classic BBQ fare!
- Chicken – Boneless breasts or thighs work well.
- Veggie skewers – Mushrooms, zucchini, peppers, etc.
- Steak – Splurge on some nice cuts of meat.
- Shrimp – Peel and devein ahead of time.
- Plant-based meats – For non-meat eaters.
Other Helpful Items
Some other handy things to offer to bring:
- Plates, cutlery, napkins, and cups – Reduce hosting work.
- Tablecloth – Check with the host on sizing.
- Serving utensils – Tongs, spatulas, ladles, etc.
- Trash bags – Help with cleanup!
- Bug spray and sunscreen – For comfort outdoors.
- Cooler with ice – Extra storage and chilling.
Things to Avoid Bringing
When preparing your contribution, keep these don’ts in mind:
- Foods that won’t travel well. Avoid delicate dishes.
- Items that need a lot of preparation at the event. Keep it simple.
- Dishes that no one eats or are common allergens. Check for diet restrictions.
- Anything the host said not to bring! Respect their requests.
Offering to Help
Don’t just drop off your items and leave all the work to your host. Offer assistance with:
- Setting up tables and chairs.
- Prepping any food or garnishes.
- Helping watch kids if needed.
- Assisting with grilling and cooking.
- Cleaning up during and after.
- Taking home leftovers or reusable dishes.
The best way to be a great guest at a BBQ is to contribute yummy food, beverages, or supplies while also offering to pitch in where needed. This takes pressure off the hosts and makes everyone’s experience more fun. So choose your offerings carefully, communicate with the hosts, and look for ways to be helpful when you arrive. With the right BBQ etiquette, you will become a guest everyone wants to invite back!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much food should I bring to a BBQ?
Bring enough food to feed about 10-12 people if you are bringing a main dish or salad. For sides, desserts or appetizers, plan for 12-15 servings. Overestimating is better than running out!
What are easy BBQ side dishes?
Some easy BBQ side dishes include tossed green salads, pasta salads, fruit salads, veggie trays, chips and dip, and breads. They require minimal preparation and hold up well outdoors.
What drinks work well for a BBQ?
Good beverage options for BBQs include sodas, bottled water, iced tea, lemonade, beers, and wine. Provide a variety, and check with hosts about preferences.
Can I bring alcohol to a BBQ?
You can offer to bring wine, beer, or cocktails but always check with the hosts first about their rules on alcohol at the party. Don’t assume it’s allowed.
What should I avoid bringing to a BBQ?
Avoid delicate dishes that won’t travel well, foods requiring last-minute prep, common allergens like shellfish unless approved, or anything hosts specifically asked you not to bring.
Conclusion
Attending a BBQ as a guest means contributing yummy food, drinks, supplies, and help to make it a success for everyone. Find out what the hosts need, coordinate dishes with other guests, and look for opportunities to pitch in. With the right offerings and attitude, you’ll become a beloved member of the BBQ crew!