|
With the longer, warmer days of
summer, most of us will be spending increasing amounts of leisure
time outdoors. Why hang out in the house when the birds are singing
and the flowers are blooming? It's time to move out to the deck and
patio.
Whether your outdoor living space
is acres of manicured lawns and tiered decks or a smaller and more
modest patio, entertaining outdoors can add new energy to your
party. The casual atmosphere seems to bring out the best in your
guests and your food. But are you ready to be the host with the
most?
Safety issues should be your first
concern. Be sure the railings on your deck are secure and check for
nails and screws that might have popped out. Stairs that lead to the
yard need to be looked over carefully to make sure they aren't loose
or cracking. You'll also want to take care that you haven't stored
any hazardous materials under the deck or in the yard where kids and
pets might get to them. Garden sprays, paint, even tools need to be
put away and out of sight.
Next, take a look at your outdoor
furniture. A good scrubbing with soap and water will refresh most
things. If your table and chairs are looking shabby, a coat of spray
paint will add new luster.
What if last year's grill doesn't look grill-worthy? Before tossing
it out, take a closer look and see if it can be salvaged.
First, check to make sure the legs
are secure. You certainly don't want to take a chance on it tipping
over and spilling out, possibly burning someone. If yours is a gas
grill, do what the service station guys do to check for leaks in the
hoses and lines. Brush on soapy water to observe bubbling spots.
These may mean potential leaks or cracks. Replace the hoses, if
necessary.
Next, you will want to thoroughly
clean by spraying the grill with an all- purpose cleaning product
such as Simple Green. Alternative cleaners such as ammonia or baking
soda may also work. Coat the grill evenly, wait 15 to 20 minutes and
remove the built up grease with a scrubbing pad. Repeat the process
for stubborn spots. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. And always make
sure you are wearing protective gloves and goggles. If the
solution removes burned on grease, think what it could do to your
skin! As an added precaution, let the grill pre-heat for a period of
time to get rid of any excess cleaning solution before placing the
food on it.
Now, it's time to get ready for
your event. Food always tastes better outdoors, so keep it simple.
Whatever is on the menu, whether steaks, hot dogs, fish or veggies,
throw them on your freshened grill. The higher temperatures and
smokiness create an unbeatable taste. Leave corn in the husk to
enhance the sweetness. Some experienced cooks suggest marinating
meats and fish for several hours. Place the food in a zip lock bag
along with seasonings and your marinade of choice.
The only ingredient you need to add now is the good company of
friends and family. And with an attractive table cloth and
plasticware, cleanup is quick and easy. As the song says,
'Summertime and the living is easy.
Copyright 2003
PropertySource Network |
