Food Town Barbecue Season is Here: Tasty Tips, Recipes & Cookout Ideas

The days are longer, the weather is warmer and grills across Greater Houston are firing back up. That’s right, neighbor — barbecue season has officially arrived. Whether you’re planning backyard gatherings, neighborhood cookouts or simple family dinners on the patio, there’s something special about cooking outdoors and sharing great food with the people you love.

Of course, a successful barbecue season requires more than just charcoal and gilling tools. From selecting quality ingredients to trying new recipes and keeping food safe, a little preparation goes a long way toward making a good barbecue something great. (Fortunately, your neighborhood Food Town’s grill gurus are here to help!) Read on for tips and tricks designed to help kick your next cookout up a notch.

Lay the Foundation with Great Ingredients and Barbecue Recipes

The best barbecue recipes begin long before food ever hits the grill. Quality ingredients, proper seasoning and a little planning play important roles when it comes to flavor.

One of the easiest ways to improve your grilling game is by starting with quality cuts of meat. Food Town’s Meat department is filled with great options at prices that won’t blow your grocery budget. And if you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for? Simply press the service button located in the department. A Food Town team member can prepare many cuts while you wait!

Once you’ve selected your proteins, it’s time to think about flavor. Marinades, dry rubs and sauces can transform even simple ingredients into memorable meals. Looking for inspiration? Here are a few barbecue recipes worth adding to your rotation.

• Dr Pepper Barbecue Sauce: A sweet and tangy homemade sauce that adds Texas-sized flavor to everything from chicken to ribs.
• Texas-Style Beef Brisket: A true Lone Star classic that delivers bold flavor and tender results worthy of any summer barbecue.
• Barbecued Marinated Chicken: A simple but flavorful option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the budget.
• Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Pork Spare Ribs: Sticky, smoky and packed with flavor, these ribs are always a crowd favorite.

Remember, great grilling isn’t about making things complicated. It’s about starting with a foundation of quality ingredients and building flavor from there.

While burgers, steaks and brisket will always have a place during barbecue season, some of the best cookout food ideas come from thinking beyond traditional proteins. Your grill can add incredible depth and smoky flavor to appetizers, vegetables, sides and even pizza. Consider adding these cookout food ideas to the menu.

• Grilled Jalapeño Poppers: Creamy, smoky and just spicy enough, these crowd-pleasing bites make a fantastic appetizer.
• Grilled Pizzas by RAGÚ®: Crispy crust, melty cheese and a subtle smoky flavor combine for a fun twist on pizza night.
• Grilled Cauliflower Steaks: A hearty vegetable option that’s packed with flavor and perfect for guests looking for something different.
• Grilled Peaches with Lime Honey: A sweet, smoky dessert that pairs juicy peaches with bright citrus and honey for a simple but memorable finish to any cookout.

One of the best things about a summer barbecue is that there are no hard-and-fast rules. Mix traditional favorites with something new and you may discover a recipe that becomes part of your family’s cookout tradition for years to come.

Looking for even more inspiration? Be sure to visit Food Town’s BBQ & Grilling Pinterest board for additional recipes, tips and ideas to keep your grill busy all summer long. Happy grilling, neighbors!

Keep Food Safety Front and Center During Cookouts

The eats may be the star of the show, but food safety is every bit as important during a summer barbecue. Following a few simple precautions can help ensure your cookout is memorable for all the right reasons.

• Cook foods to proper internal temperatures.
  • Beef, Pork, Lamb and Fish: 145° F
  • Ground Meats: 160° F
  • Poultry: 165° F
• Use a meat thermometer. Color alone isn’t always a reliable indicator of doneness.
• Avoid cross-contamination. Use separate cutting boards, utensils and plates for raw and cooked foods.
• Keep cold foods cold. Potato salad, coleslaw, dips and other refrigerated items should remain chilled until serving time.
• Don’t leave food sitting out too long. Perishable foods should generally not sit out for more than two hours — or one hour if temperatures climb above 90° F.
• Protect food from bugs. Use food covers, keep drinks covered when possible and bring food indoors if insects become a problem.
• Keep children away from hot grills and tools. Designate a safety zone around the grill to help prevent accidents.

There are plenty of reasons people look forward to barbecue season each year. It’s a chance to slow down, gather with friends and family and enjoy some of the best flavors summer has to offer. And whether you’re stocking up on quality meats, fresh produce, pantry staples or all the extras that make a cookout complete, your neighborhood Food Town has what you need. Stop by soon to stock up!

Normal Operating Hours:
Monday – Sunday | 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.