Sometimes the pressure of being in control of the BBQ can get to us all, whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time at the plate. We’ve put together some tips to impress your family and friends this summer.

Get the good stuff

It might cost a little more, but if you really want to impress your guests, this is one of the easiest ways. Splurging on a few quality cuts will make a world of difference and leave everyone asking for more. Ask your guests to bring a plate so you don’t have to worry about the sides and salads and you can just focus on getting the good stuff.

Keep it seasoned

You don’t need to use every seasoning in the book to give it that wow factor. If you’re using quality meat, all you need to do for the perfect steak is wait till the last minute to season with salt and pepper. This prevents the steak from drawing out moisture and keeps it nice and tender. If you do like to add a little more flavour to your meat, use dry rubs and apply it half an hour beforehand so it can soak up all the flavour.

Resting

Resting is one of the most important parts of nailing the BBQ. Letting your meat rest allows the juices to redistribute through the muscle – it will lose less juice so it’s more tender and juicy. When you’re working with bigger cuts like briskets or shoulders you need to rest this for at least an hour, maybe two. Make sure you cut vents into the meat so it stops cooking. Smaller cuts don’t need as long, around 5 minutes, maybe 10 for thicker steaks.

Play it safe

Giving everyone food poisoning will have you going down in history for all the wrong reasons. Wash your hands, keep raw and cooked food separate, cover raw meat, and make sure chicken, pork, sausages, and kebabs are cooked until there is no more pink meat inside. Don’t forget to stay sun safe and make sure you’re reapplying through the day.