• Highlight fresh seasonal vegetables in your backyard barbeque menu.Barbeque image by Crisps85 from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
  
  A backyard barbeque should take full advantage of the flavors of the summer season. Fresh fruits and vegetables shine in barbeque menus. Add cheer with a festive table setting and summer sippers. When planning for your barbeque event, consider any food allergies or restrictions that may be experienced by your guests, and plan accordingly.
  
  

Select a Theme

• Whether you are entertaining for a specific holiday, such as the Fourth of July or Labor Day, or simply celebrating the season of summer, consider the overall theme of your gathering. Think beyond burgers and hot dogs to explore new flavors and textures through a theme. For example, Mediterranean flavors incorporated into a barbeque menu make for a delicious meal. Give a table a Mediterranean look with bright vibrant red and orange colors incorporated into table linens and floral arrangements. Seek out brightly colored tableware from second-hand stores for a unique touch. Ceramic pitchers with Mediterranean patterns will lend a festive feel to your event.
  
  

Plan Your Menu

• Once you've established a theme for your backyard barbeque, begin preparing a menu for the event. Ribs, chicken, steak, portobello mushrooms or eggplant grilled fresh can take center stage as the main dishes but do not overlook the remainder of the menu. Salads and side dishes infused with flavor, texture and color will complement grilled items and add a lively note to your event. For a Mediterranean event, incorporate tomatoes, olives, mint, basil and balsamic vinegar into your recipes. Complete your menu with a sweet finish, such as a rich cheese plate or homemade Italian ices. Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries or raspberries, drizzled over fresh homemade ice cream satisfy a sweet tooth.
  
  

Don't Forget the Drinks

• No barbeque is complete without a selection of summer libations. Let your theme guide your beverage selection, but also consider your guests' preferences. Always offer a non-alcoholic option in addition to cool water. For cocktails, pitcher drinks work well as they can be set up for self-service. To avoid a pile-up at the table, set aside a small table to serve as a bar. Keep it stocked with glasses, ice, and lemon and lime slices as well as a bottle opener. Fruit drinks, such as margaritas with pink grapefruit, sangria and strawberry lemonade, are seasonal and refreshing options.