Your Barbecue Checklist

 It's Memorial Day and that means one thing = do you have enough for a good old fashioned barbecue.Ther'es nothing worse than being in the middle of a cookout and running out of stuff.Make sure you're ready for the big day ahead.

Luckily grocery stores are open tomorrow and MOnday so there's no panic if you have forgotten something. The most important, besides the food , are the paper plates and utensils. Do you have enough to accommodate your guests and family? What about plastic glasses for soda and lemonade? The next item you should have plenty of is aluminum foil. This is essential for tenting chicken ribs and even turkey legs  along with placing ears of corn in them.As for the food itself - do you have enough variety for meat eating and vegan friends? Figure it this way . Everyone usually eats about two burgers each.If you're cooking for ten then have around twenty. The same goes for hot dogs. After the second people are usually stuffed or want a change Wings are a little different. The average person can go through five ro six in one sitting. A group of fifteen could easily munch their way through sixty piece of chicken. Turkey legs are just easier. Most people are usually stuffed after one leg.

As for condiments - are there enough to satisfy a crowd. Remember some people prefer Dijon mustard over honey or any kind Have favorite brands if the guests request them. The same goes for ketchup too. (although mostly everyone is happy with Heintz) You may want to have some barbecue sauce too along with relish for those who like some variation. Also make sure there are plenty of sliced onions and tomatoes for those building their burgers (sliced tomatoes are also a good nibble while waiting for the food to cook up).Is there enough mayo? What about vegan mayo for the vegetarians? As far as the sides will there be enough three bean salad to feed a group?What about the potato salad? These are usually the sides that go first. Have backup ingredients in case you have to add to the bowls.Dessert is usually simple s'more's A bag of marshmallows is perfect for a crowd yet you may have to get extra chocolate bars along with graham crackers to satisfy people.

Be ready for the grilling days ahead. Make sure your barbecue is red hot and ready. Have everything on hand and waiting to go