Backyard BBQ Bliss: Planning the Perfect Oglebay-Inspired Cookout

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and delicious backyard barbecues. But this year, why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your cookout with the sophisticated charm and natural beauty of Oglebay Resort? This guide will walk you through creating an unforgettable BBQ experience, drawing inspiration from the elegance and outdoor spirit of Oglebay.

Choosing the Perfect Setting: Oglebay Ambiance at Home

Before even considering the menu, setting the mood is crucial. Oglebay’s stunning landscapes – from lush green gardens to the serene shores of Wilson Lodge – inspire a tranquil yet festive atmosphere. To recreate this at home, consider these elements:

• Location, Location, Location: Choose a spot in your backyard with ample space for guests to mingle comfortably. If possible, position your grill near a shaded area to keep guests cool.
• Lighting: Mimic Oglebay’s enchanting evening ambiance with string lights, lanterns, or tiki torches. Soft, warm lighting sets a romantic and inviting tone.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like plants, flowers, and wood accents to bring the outdoors in. Think potted herbs, wildflowers in mason jars, or rustic wooden serving platters.
• Color Palette: Oglebay’s palette often features earth tones, greens, and creams. Use these colors in your table settings, decorations, and even your attire to maintain a cohesive theme.

The Oglebay-Inspired Menu: A Culinary Journey

Oglebay’s culinary offerings are known for their quality and regional flair. While you may not be able to replicate their exact dishes at home, you can capture the essence of their menu with these suggestions:

Appetizers:

• Miniature Quiches or Frittatas: Offer a variety of flavors to cater to different palates.
• Caprese Skewers: Simple yet elegant, these skewers combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
• Spicy Shrimp Cocktail: A sophisticated and flavorful option to kick off the BBQ.

Main Course:

Oglebay often features grilled meats and fresh seafood. For your backyard BBQ, consider:

• Grilled Steak or Chicken: Marinate your meats overnight for maximum flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: A crowd-pleasing classic that’s easy to prepare and serve.
• Grilled Vegetables: Don’t forget the veggies! Grill zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a healthy and delicious side.

Sides:

Keep the sides fresh and flavorful, mirroring the fresh ingredients used at Oglebay:

• Classic Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy side dish to balance the richness of the main course.
• Potato Salad: A BBQ staple that can be customized with herbs and spices.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob adds a sweet and smoky flavor to the meal.

Dessert:

End your BBQ with a sweet treat inspired by Oglebay’s delightful desserts:

• S’mores Bar: A fun and interactive dessert that lets guests create their own s’mores.
• Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: A light and refreshing dessert option.
• Key Lime Pie: A classic dessert that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.

Drinks: Refreshments Worthy of Oglebay

Drinks are just as important as the food. Oglebay’s beverage selection is extensive; for your BBQ, consider these options:

• Iced Tea: A refreshing classic, perfect for a summer day.
• Lemonade: Homemade lemonade is a simple yet elegant choice.
• Signature Cocktail: Create a signature cocktail inspired by Oglebay’s location and natural beauty. A refreshing mojito or a fruity margarita would be perfect.
• Local Craft Beer Selection: If appropriate for your guests, offering a selection of local craft beers can add a sophisticated touch.

Entertainment: Creating a Festive Atmosphere

Oglebay frequently hosts events and offers entertainment options. To replicate this festive atmosphere at home, consider:

• Music: Create a playlist of upbeat summer tunes or hire a live musician to entertain your guests.
• Games: Set up some lawn games like cornhole or badminton to keep guests entertained.
• Bonfire (if permitted): If your backyard allows it, a bonfire adds a cozy and inviting touch to the evening.

Post-BBQ Clean-up: Maintaining Oglebay’s Elegance

Just as Oglebay maintains its immaculate grounds, it’s important to plan for a smooth clean-up after your BBQ. Have trash cans readily available and designate a cleanup crew (or simply enlist the help of your guests!) to ensure a quick and efficient process. This way, you can enjoy the memories without the stress of a messy aftermath.

By following these tips, you can transform your backyard into an Oglebay-inspired oasis of summer fun. Remember that the key is to create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for your guests, allowing them to savour the delicious food and company. Enjoy your backyard BBQ bliss!