Credit: Timothy Kwon

5 Ways to Enjoy Cooking Outdoors This Summer—Think BBQs, Bonfires and Beautiful Views

From Delicious Brioche Recipes to Expert Tips, Soak Up the Summer and Plan an Evening of Outdoor Dining

As the temperatures start to rise and we can finally trade in spring showers for summer sunshine, now is the perfect time to fire up the grill and welcome the perfect weather for cooking outdoors. Whether it is a smoky backyard barbecue on the Fourth of July, a cozy campsite cookout or a catered, elegant outdoor affair, there has never been a better time to enjoy the luxury of a SoCal summer alongside an incredible spread. First things first, head to the grocery store to pick up BBQ necessities like St Pierre brioche and hamburger patties. And to help us make the absolute most of this season, we’ve enlisted the help of the experts at Fork, Knife and Spoon Catering in Newport Beach to provide the five essential ways to enjoy cooking outdoors to the fullest this summer. Outdoor Dining

 

BBQ at Home on a Wood-Fired Grill

Credit: Timothy Kwon

When it comes to outdoor cooking, there is nothing quite like an old-fashioned backyard cookout on a classic wood-fired grill; once the plumes of rich, sweet and smoky flavor begin to fill your backyard, it becomes very easy to see why. Don’t shy away from a little prepwork though, as Fork, Knife and Spoon owner Andrew Miley suggests, “Plan ahead! Grilling and outdoor entertaining allows for a lot of prep work to be done ahead of time.” Being prepared is the first step in pulling off the perfect summer BBQ! We recommend making these Grilled Lemon Chicken Burgers with Peppers and Barbecued Brioche Cheese Toasties—definitely two crowd pleasers!

Outdoor Dining

Camping and Cooking

Camping is a quintessential part of outdoor adventuring in SoCal. Whether you’re spending a night overlooking the Pacific on the pristine bluffs of Crystal Cove or gazing up at the stars in Joshua Tree, a warm, hearty meal in the great outdoors never disappoints. Our only advice? Come prepared and don’t wait until sunset to start cooking. Miley says, “Keep it simple—marinate everything ahead of time and leave plenty of time to get your fire ready!” What’s a camping trip without good ol’ fashioned hot dogs? These St Pierre Brioche Chili Dogs might just be the highlight of your entire weekend.

7/20

 

Beach Bonfire

Credit: Timothy Kwon | Models: Angelina Kurie and Joey Mydra of OTTO Models

For those looking to experience the radiant beauty of Southern California’s incredible array of beaches and coves, then a beach bonfire may be the perfect choice. With options stretching the entirety of the coastline, including iconic locations such as Newport Beach’s Balboa Pier or the rocky shores of Doheny State Beach, finding a destination for a bonfire is a breeze. Stuff your coolers with all the necessary ingredients, and don’t leave these Crawfish Cocktail Rolls off the packing list. This seafood delicacy and a cool ocean breeze is the perfect pairing. 

Outdoor Dining

Entertaining at Home for a Celebration

Credit: Timothy Kwon

Whatever the occasion may be, now is also the perfect time to celebrate under the sun. Hosting a party at home can be stressful, but with the help of Fork, Knife and Spoon’s catering options, it doesn’t have to be. Leave the cooking to the pros for a seamless evening of hosting, so you can be present and enjoy celebrating with loved ones. Fork, Knife and Spoon offers a variety of different options to fit any event—casual or elegant, big or small. Everything from tacos to tri-tip to tomahawks are available to set your personalized menu, making Fork, Knife and Spoon the perfect complement to host an outdoor celebration at home. 

 

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For those who are braving the kitchen, stick to recipes you know everyone will love. Pulled Pork Sliders, Mushroom and Swiss Cheese Burgers and St Pierre Brioche Garlic Bread are sure to do the trick! Have everyone attending bring their favorite appetizer, dish or drink for the special occasion. 

7/13

 

Park Picnic at Cliff Drive Park

Credit: Timothy Kwon

This list wouldn’t be complete without including the most timeless tradition in all of outdoor dining: the picnic. And while SoCal is home to some amazing overlooks and gorgeous picnic destinations, nothing beats the sweeping panoramic views and sprawling, grassy hills of Newport Beach’s Cliff Drive Park. Make these Game Changer Italian BMT Sliders and Japanese Style Fruit Sandwiches to enjoy under the SoCal sun. So pack a basket, grab a blanket and sip some prosecco as you take in one of the best views in the state.

Outdoor Dining

Fork, Knife and Spoon
Newport Beach, CA
949.290.3978

 

Models: Angelina Kurie and Joey Mydra of OTTO Models

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