Summer . . . the time when delicious aromas begin wafting from the docks and decks of Smith Mountain Lake homes everywhere as the grilling season gets under way. If you’re looking to learn a few barbeque basics or get the perfect recipe for your Independence Day cookout, then take a few minutes to visit the Food Network’s Grillin’ and Chillin’ website. Here’s a sampling of what you’ll find there:

Top 5 Grilling Tips & Tricks

1. 1. A hot grill is your best defense against sticky situations. Be sure the grates are piping hot before laying down your food – or be prepared to clean it later!
   2. When cooking anything skewered, like kebabs, soak the wooden sticks in water first to prevent them from burning.
   3. Try a dry rub on chicken instead of traditional barbecue sauce. BBQ sauces contain sugars that caramelize and then quickly burn. Cook your chicken almost all the way through and then baste with a thin coating of sauce.
   4. Keep a spray bottle of water close by to tame any flare-ups.
   5. A great way to oil up your grill without creating a wild fire: fold up a cotton kitchen towel, lightly dip in vegetable oil, and use y our tongs to glide a coat onto the grates.

For some great grilling recipes you can use for your next Smith Mountain Lake get together, click on this link. Enjoy the 4^th, and happy grilling!