There are certain social responsibilities that come with being invited to a barbecue. It’s always polite to bring something to contribute to the festivities, but what’s best? Sure, you could just show up with a bag of potato chips or a stack of paper cups, but that’s not going to really wow anybody, is it?
If you really want to make a good impression, consider some of these exciting items to bring to the next summer barbecue. Not only will they stand out but they’ll also be a great addition to the host’s main meal.
Macaroni Dishes
Macaroni is one of the most versatile bases for a delicious side dish. You can bring over a crockpot full of gooey macaroni and cheese or make a batch of our special chili macaroni that just screams summertime fun.
One popular option is to make an authentic Hawaiian mac salad, which focuses more on the natural sweetness of the mayonnaise and avoids the acids of mustard or vinegar to create something creamy, memorable, and easy to put together.
Unique Beverages
A common problem with summertime barbecues is that there usually isn’t much to drink. Many hosts or guests just supply some bottled water or grab a few cases of soda cans from the store. Everyone wants a cool, refreshing drink, so why not bring something to really knock their socks off? You can make a pitcher of delicious sun tea with little effort or add unique flavors like cucumber or strawberry to a batch of lemonade.
If you’re working with a smaller crowd that’s on the adventurous side, consider finding novelty beverages that stand out. A pack of the ultimate German summer refreshment, Spezi, showcases that you follow new and exciting beverage trends.
Fruit Skewers
Fruit skewers are one the most exciting items to bring to the next summertime barbecue. Assemble skewers with your favorite seasonal fruits, like watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries. Not only does fruit refresh on a hot summer day, but the skewers make them easy to throw on the grill for a whole new taste experience. Grilled fruit has a natural smokiness that brings out the sweetness and juiciness of the fruit, making it a fantastic snack on a hot day.
Ditch the plastic tub of coleslaw when you’re headed to a barbecue and find something truly exciting. Not only are many of these options easy to put together, but they’re more affordable than the stuff you could pick up on the way to the party.