CityView Magazine

Friend especially likes to grill steak but she also shares some mouth-watering recipes for a slow-cooked whole onion plus grilled corn on the cob. Gas or charcoal, you can make these recipes, too. Whitney Allen says she’s a fan of grilling with gas because of the control it gives her. When cooking for a large group, for example, it’s easy to tailor the temperature for steaks, rare to well-done. If she had to name one secret weapon it might be tinfoil or perhaps a grill basket to keep vegetables from falling into the flames. Allen started grilling in college to save money, both on food and entertainment. Gathering around the grill is an instant meal and party, too. And, “I learned that you can grill practically anything,” she said. She started out simple with chicken breasts, carrots and broccoli, wrapped in tinfoil and topped with Italian salad dressing and seasonings, and branched out from there. “I love grilling because it allows you to experiment with different foods, herbs, sauces and tastes,” she said. “It is also super healthy, which is always a plus.” Now that the fear factor is gone, and just in time for Labor Day, here’s a quick primer, with recipes (left), for a backyard barbecue, girl-style: Dress up the patio table with a tablecloth and fresh flowers. It doesn’t have to be fussy – a few serving pieces, casual dinnerware and chairs from inside will do just fine. Prepare fresh lemonade and vegetable dip the day before so guests can munch while you grill. Or even better, put friends to work slicing vegetables such as summer squash, zuchinni or eggplant. Other vegetables require no prep at all: corn is delicious grilled in the husk. We love a veggie plate but by all means, grill your favorite meat or fish, if you like. Kebabs are a super simple main course – provide a platter of meats, veggies, even fruit, so guests can mix and match. And for dessert, make-your-own sundaes are always a hit but peaches or slices of pound cake are great on the grill. Be daring – you’re a grill girl now.CV www.TownsendRealEstate.com 910.323.1110 Clayton Britt & Sons, Inc. Spa & Pool World Tousands o O Homes ne Address Bringing Families & Communities Together One Pool at a Time for Over 35 Years! 3703 Bragg Blvd. 910-868-8319 CityViewNC.com | 23

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