Tired of hovering over a grill, turning chops and flipping burgers? Say good-bye to trying to satisfy individual doneness preferences, and say yes to grilling a big piece of meat such as a turkey. Yes, it takes a few hours, but it's easy and oh, so delicious. Enjoy this BIG grill before the summer ends!
Backyard Big-Time Fun
- Drag out all your yard games—bocce, croquet, badminton—and if you have a Ping-Pong table hiding in the garage, get it out, too! Organize the Big Games so everyone plays. Include a balloon toss or bubble-blowing event for the "sports-challenged" guests. Post an ongoing scoreboard. Expect a lot of cheering and friendly badgering. Award some crazy prizes to the high and low scores and one for the "best sport."
- No yard games in your garage? No problem! Create a three-legged turkey race (two people race as one with one leg of each tied together). A turkey-warbling contest can create more laughter and fun; direct guests to put their best voice forward and let it all hang out. A rubber chicken is one prize you have to award! Or make your own blue ribbon for the first prize "Biggest Turkey" award.
Backyard Big-Time Decor
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If shade is limited in your yard, you may want to rent a tent or canopy to cover food and eating tables. Party canopies are becoming readily available at discount and farm and home stores for inexpensive purchase.
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Supply guests with extra-large paper napkins. Or consider purchasing inexpensive colorful washcloths or hand towels; they're extra-absorbent for summer food fare, and they wrap around utensils nicely for easy pickup. They also wash up like a dream and require no ironing.
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If your guests have a sense of humor, use turkey decor. You may just find plates, napkins and the works in a bargain store corner!
Big-Time Food Presentation
- No need to worry about having a special turkey platter. This is an outdoor party! Cover a tray with heavy-duty aluminum foil; crimp the edges for easy toting.
- Try these enticing grilled turkey breast recipes if your guest list is smaller or cooking a whole bird is just too much: Grilled Honey-Dijon Brined Turkey Breast or Grilled Chipotle Turkey Breast.
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