While keeping food cold is crucial, you’ll also want some dishes to stay warm for your guests. Using a double boiler is a smart way to maintain warmth throughout your cookout.

Heat rock salt in your oven until hot, then place it in the bottom pan of your double boiler. Put the food you want to keep warm in the top pan and cover it with a lid. This setup works great if you want to prepare food ahead of time and serve it piping hot when guests arrive.

This method is ideal for side dishes like baked beans, mac and cheese, or grilled veggies. It keeps your food at just the right temperature without overcooking or drying it out.

For added convenience, use thermal food covers or insulated carriers for transporting dishes from the kitchen to the backyard. You could even invest in warming trays for larger gatherings.

Serving warm food safely and efficiently doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, your BBQ will be both tasty and well-timed. Your guests will thank you for the hot, delicious food.