11 Tips For Grilling On The Go
Pick a Park
This may seem like one of the easier steps on the list, but not all parks will allow you to grill. So make sure when you're picking a park that grilling is even a possibility. If there's a permit required, make sure you get your application in before showing up — the earlier the better.
Plan a Menu
Once you've picked a park and invited all of your friends, the next part of the planning is to select a menu. Make your menu as simple as possible, because you don't want to have to man the grill all day. If you're smart, you'll recruit a few helpers so the cooking won't wear you down.
Photo Modified: Flickr/ Cliff Huston
Still Need Help With Menu Ideas?
This grilled potato recipe is so simple to make. Put your potatoes on the grill with salt, pepper, and garlic and watch them cook. They're easy and delicious — there's nothing better than that.
And Grilled Skirt Steak Has to Make the List
What are grilled potatoes at your grilling-on-the-go party without skirt steak? Skirt steak is an inexpensive cut of meat that tastes delicious.
Photo Modified: Flickr/ Jim Legans, Jr
Going Grocery Shopping
You don't have to break the bank to have an amazing grilling-on-the-go experience. No one is going to care if you go for skirt steak in place of a more expensive porterhouse. As long as your food tastes good, that's all that matters! Buy cheaper cuts of meat that pack in the flavor, like chicken legs and thighs, whiting fish, and flank or skirt steak.
Photo Modified: Flickr/ Nicholas Eckhart
Tupperware Party
The more, the better. Make sure you have enough forks, spoons, cups, plates, napkins, and Tupperware. Even if you think you have enough paper towels, grab another roll. When you're outside eating five different things, you tend to use more napkins, cups, and plates than you would in another setting. Also, bring Tupperware — that way, you can send your guests home with leftovers.
Bring a Grill Pan
If you're going to make vegetables or fish at your grilling-on-the-go party, then it would be a good idea to bring a grill pan. Grill pans make clean-up easier, and you won't have to worry about pieces falling through your cooking grate.
Photo Modified: Flickr/ David Reber
Extra Charcoal or Propane
On the Day of the Event
When you first get out the car, grab a few cups, plates, and paper towels to set on a table. That way, you'll hold a spot while you unload the rest of the car. If you're going to a park that has grills, get there extra early so that you are able to grab one before they're all taken up. Even if you're bringing your own grill, it's still smart to get there a little early so you can set up and entertain the early birds.
Photo Modified: Flickr/ alex lang
Recruit Helpers
Make sure that you delegate tasks — who's going to throw out the trash at the end of the day, who's going to help cook, and, of course, who's going to be in charge of music. If everyone has a job, it makes it easier to finish up when everyone is ready to go home at the end of the day.
Photo Modified: Shutterstock / Air Images
Enjoy Yourself
You went through all the trouble of planning, cooking, and inviting — remember to have fun and enjoy the party. It's OK if someone else mans the grill for a little while. Go grab a cold brew.
Photo Modified: Shutterstock / wavebreakmedia