FEED YOUR FACE: BBQ - IT'S TIME

After Mom's day, it is time to do some planting of gardens. Time to clean the patio and patio furniture. Time to get out the utensils for cooking on the grill. Unless, of course, you're like me and use your grill in the winter time. 'Course, anytime is a good time to cook on your grill.


I'm lucky; I have a couple of grills I use. But now is the time to clean your grill, buy more propane, wood chips for smoking, charcoal, and new utensils if need be. Check all parts of your grill and replace anything that looks old or worn out. Check propane bottles and lines. Also check carefully under the lid of your grill. I had a couple of wasp nests one time.

'Course, once I have my grill ready for the summer I want to cook something on it the same day. Make something simple, like hot dogs or some burgers. I also get out some of my recipes that I've gotten over the years, or some that I've seen on TV or out of a magazine. I also go through spices, rubs, marinades. Replace them, make new ones, or buy some of your favorites.

Do you use any cast iron on your grill? Check them for rust and such. If need be, clean and re-season them. How about that rotisserie? Do you still have all the parts? Does the motor still work? Check the cord. Do you have a apron? Has the one you used last year been cleaned? Do you need a meat thermometer? How about the batteries? How about the squirt bottle for flare ups on your grill? And what about a fire extinguisher? It doesn't hurt to have one handy, just in case.

So once you're ready, it's time to crank it up. Do some cooking. Give the wife a break. Throw a He-man steak on the grill. Cook up some chicken. Do some beans in the skillet. Smoke some fish on the grill. Maybe you have some leftover elk or venison in the freezer. Cook it low and slow. It's a good time to spend with family and friends. Or to really bug your neighbor when he smells something cooking on your grill.

So, have at it. Time to start the grilling season. Be safe. And as I like to say: FEED YOUR FACE!