The third in Rick Rodgers's popular 101 series (see also Thanksgiving 101 and Christmas 101), Barbecues 101 is all the ammunition you need to fire up the grill and keep it going all summer long. Rodgers knows that a barbecue is "the ultimate relaxed get-together," and presents detailed, step-by-step instructions for everything from choosing your grill, firing it up, and using it to basic, foolproof recipes for grilling favorites like burgers and chicken. Named Outstanding Cooking Teacher of 1999
If the barbecue is to be away from home, think ahead about what you might need. Some of these things might be considered handy and nice to have -- or they might be essential, depending on the circumstances.
Menu - check off items as you pack them; don't forget additional ingredients for reseasoning salads.
Frozen thermal gel-packs - freeze plenty the night before or purchase them.
Ice cubes -- if using, make the night before
Plates
Forks, knives, spoons
Plastic glasses
Seving dishes
Serving utensils
Tablecloth and/or picnic blanket
Napkins
Serrated knife and cutting board (always comes in handy)
A wet sponge in a plastic bag for cleanup.
Premoistened hand towelettes or sanitizing hand cleaner
Paper towels
Plastic wrap for leftovers
Plastic garbage bags for easy cleanup
Cushions or foldable chairs
Portable radio or CD players with CDs - check the batteries
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
First-aid kit for cut fingers or burns
Charcoal grill (bring one even if the park supplies them, just in case all the grills are in use when you arrive)