Who says you have to wait until summer to fire up the barbecue? Give the season a nudge by hosting your first cookout with some delicious, easy-to-prepare menu items. Feel free to invite as few or as many people as you'd like. Cooking outdoors cuts down on kitchen mess, giving you
more time to enjoy your guests and your dinner.
Why not make your inaugural barbecue a little different by
serving lamb chops? They're as easy to grill as a T-bone steak but are lighter and more festive. American lamb - which is milder-tasting and is a better value than foreign lamb - is a perfect fit for today's fresh, light and imaginative
menus. What's more, its nutritional profile is comparable to other lean meats.
As you plan your cookout, keep in mind that festive doesn't
have to mean fancy or a lot of work. You can save time and complement menu items by adding foods you may already have on hand, such as canned California Bartlett pears. Canned pears are sweet and juicy, available year-round and ideal
for perking up your favorite salad or dessert. Best of all, their flavor and versatility enhances just about any main dish without overwhelming it.
A barbecue is a perfect opportunity to enjoy and experiment
with a variety of wines. Consider buying a few different varieties of wine for your guests to try. Sampling is in too! Don't worry about "rules" when it comes to selecting or pairing wines with your meal. Just pick what you like - and
have fun. After all, isn't that what a cookout with friends is all about?