With the warming weather, now is the perfect time to fire up the barbecue grill and enjoy outdoor dining in your backyard. If you’re like me, the first grilling session of the season can feel a bit rusty. Here are some essential grilling tips to help you get back into the groove.

Charcoal Grilling Tips

When using charcoal briquettes, arrange them in a surface area about 10% larger than the food you’re grilling. Pile them about 3 inches deep in the center, tapering to 1 inch at the edges.
Start the fire approximately 30 minutes before cooking. The coals are ready when covered with a layer of gray ash. My favorite method for starting the fire is using a charcoal chimney starter. Place paper at the bottom, add charcoal on top, and light with a match.
To monitor the temperature, use a portable oven thermometer placed on the grill (not directly over the coals).
Regulate the heat with the bottom and top vents—open to increase temperature and close to decrease it. Do not close the vents completely, or the fire may go out.
Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to douse any unwanted flames.
After each use, use a stiff wire brush to clean the grill rack while it’s still hot.

Gas Grilling Tips

Open the lid before lighting the grill. Ensure all burner control knobs are turned to “off,” and check that your fuel tank is full.
Turn the gas valve on (counterclockwise).
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ignite the grill using the igniter switch or a match.
Close the lid and preheat the grill to medium for about 5 to 10 minutes. Adjust the burner controls according to your cooking method.

My First Barbecue of the Season

To kick off the grilling season, I prepared a delicious pork tenderloin. It was such a joy to be outdoors again, savoring the flavors of real barbecue. Here’s the simple yet flavorful recipe I used—try!