Enjoying Summer Meals Outdoors

June is here and the weather forecast promises long summer days. Dining outside with friends and family is a great way to take advantage of the sunshine, but it can be disrupted by bugs or a malfunctioning grill. As the editor of kitchen coverage for Wirecutter, I know all about the right gear to make your outdoor cooking and entertaining experience the best it can be.

While good food and company are the essentials for a successful meal outside, having comfortable seating and keeping your drinks cold are equally important. Here are some tips to make your summer dining experience more enjoyable.

Prepare Your Grill

If you enjoy grilling, it is crucial to clean your grill before the first big cookout of the season. A clean grill means you will be ready to cook as soon as the thought of a burger pops into your head, and you’ll avoid disasters like a grease pan overflowing all over your patio, or worse, catching on fire. To deep-clean a gas grill, remove the grates, burner hoods, and grease pan, and scrub them with hot, soapy water and scouring pad. For a charcoal grill, first sweep or vacuum out any dry ash, then scour the grates and interior. As you continue to use your grill throughout the season, clean it after each use to avoid buildup.

Easy Picnics

Keep a dedicated bag packed with all the picnic essentials. I use the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote in the largest size. It is sturdy and easy to see the contents. What should you put inside? A picnic blanket is a must, and I also pack reusable outdoor dinnerware, napkins, and utensils. Don’t forget bug spray and non-perishable condiments. Consider packing a small jar of salt. There are plenty of lovely options for picnic dinnerware, including the light, bright Xenia Taler bamboo plates and Falcon Enamelware’s rainbow of tumblers.

Beach Day

If you’re planning to spend a day at the beach, start with making sure you have enough sunscreen. Check the expiration date of last year’s sunscreen and replace it if needed. Consider investing in a sunshade or a big hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun. Don’t forget sunglasses, towels, and chairs. Pack everything in your picnic bag to make it easy to carry and organized.

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