3 ways to make your next Bham backyard cookout easy

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Kicking off in spring as soon as the first azaleas bloom to well past football season, Birmingham is meant for the type of easy-going backyard gatherings that make connecting with friends and loved ones fuss-free and enjoyable. It doesn’t hurt that we have a bounty of fresh produce and local products at our fingertips, either.

But we know nothing wrecks a good gathering like prep work that’s a pain or having to stand around forever waiting for the grill to heat up.

Luckily, we’ve found tips to keep outdoor gatherings chill, and we put them to the test with our team. See how to bring local flair—and no fuss—to your next great Birmingham backyard bash.

Locally-sourced foods for your next Birmingham cookout

_{Picking locally-made products not only supports our community, it can be a cool talking point for company. (Nathan Watson / BhamNow)}

When we were planning our after-work gathering, our first step was to place a delivery order from the nearest Piggly Wiggly that morning. When we pulled into the driveway, we had the following local favorites waiting for us:

• Fresh-ground burger patties Piggly Wiggly—seasoned with Dale’s Seasoning Signature Steakhouse Blend
• Everyone loves Conecuh sausage, but did you know they make hot dogs? Great for throwing on the grill!
• Make sure to have “instant” snacks on hand for when guests arrive hangry. We like the spinach-artichoke dip from Tre Luna in Hoover + Mrs Stratton’s pimento cheese spread.
• If you pick a local condiment like Full Moon Barbecue’s jarred chow-chow, that means less chopping of toppings.
• Sip a soda with local roots, like Buffalo Rock ginger ale, Grapico, Milo’s Tea or icy-cold treats from Coca-Cola UNITED.
• Crack open a cold can of Martens BeLite beer, which just made its US debut right here in Alabama!
• Finish on a sweet note with banana pudding from Hattie B’s or Saw’s.

*INSTANT TIP: When people ask what they can bring, make it a bag of ice—you’ll never have enough on hand, and it makes it easy to top off coolers and cups.

Fast, efficient grilling tips with always-on natural gas

_{Always-on natural gas means no guesswork and less stress when entertaining outside. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)}

Sure, some of you can wow with a James Beard-worthy beef bourguignon, but what guests really want is a great burger or ‘dog fresh off of the grill. Especially when it’s summertime. If you want to “press the easy button” when it comes to prep, using natural gas outdoors is the way to go.

Aways-on natural gas provides:

• instant heat
• efficient outdoor cooking
• less mess + cleanup
• easier installation than you might think

Here’s how to find a local gas company in your area, no matter where you live in Alabama.

*INSTANT TIP: Keep the grill area clear, and check connections before lighting to ensure safe, steady flames on your natural gas grill.

Prep a punch with Milo’s Tea + lemonade

_{Leave guests with the “warm fuzzies,” like a sweet treat for the road and a warm glow as the Birmingham sun sets. (Nathan Watson / BhamNow)}

A couple of pro-level tips we’ve picked up from Birmingham events and gatherings through the years:

• Prep a “batch” drink that guests can serve themselves when needed. We like a summer-friendly mix of Milo’s sweet tea + raspberry lemonade (also easy to “upgrade” to an adult version if desired with a splash of Redmont Vodka!).
• Take a hint from a Southern wedding or shower + leave guests with a treat for the ride home. We picked up mini smiley-faced cookies from beloved Savage’s Bakery in Homewood.
• You may not think of cranking up the fire pit this time of year, but it’s actually perfect for summertime S’mores. Guests can make + roast their own easily thanks to always-on natural gas.

*INSTANT TIP: Designate a few friends to be the official picture-takers to document another glorious Alabama evening spent together outside.

What are your “always-on” tips for great Birmingham gatherings? Let us know @bhamnow, and we may feature them in our next story!

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