Burger buns don’t just come in the white bread variety anymore. Although, that’s still a fantastic option and one of my faves.

We first began branching out with the old sesame seed bun and that really got our taste buds thinking.

These days, there are so many burger buns to choose from. Here’s a list of some of the top contenders:

CIABATTA

This Italian white bread is made from wheat flour and yeast and it’s light, not heavy. It has only been around since 1982 so it’s a relatively new sensation.

BRIOCHE

Puffy, with a golden, flaky crust, its origins are in the French pastry realm. Made with eggs and butter in the mix, this bun is rich and tasty.

PRETZEL

This bun is baked in the traditional pretzel knot shape and comes to us from Germany. Love soft pretzels? You’ll adore this great alternative to the ordinary.

Peruse your local bakery for more options and find one that makes your heart sing!

Want to mix it up a bit? Then try one of these buns on the grill next time it’s burger time. Slice it in half, put the inside down on the grill and leave for 10 seconds. You’ll have a toasty, tasty bun for that delicious burger!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

You consider yourself a grillmaster. You have immediately earned my respect and admiration.

But as a grillmaster do you have all of the important tools of the trade? Do you have grilling tools for different meats?

Let me explain.

STEAK

It’s heavy and needs to be flipped without steak juices escaping all over the place. A SPATULA is the tool you need at grillside for this delicious dish.

STEAKBURGERS

Lighter than steak, but still substantial, burgers need proper flipping as well. But these babies require a SMALL SIZE SPATULA just large enough for the patty.

HOT DOGS

Hot dogs have a distinctive shape and require a tool to match. TONGS are your best bet for turning and grilling these to perfection.

BONELESS CHICKEN BREASTS

Yum! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a favorite around our house as well. Use a PRONGED FORK to do right by this healthy meat.

SALMON

Seafood, especially salmon, is very delicate so it requires extra care and attention. Use ALUMINUM FOIL to wrap this meat before placing it on the grill. It’ll help it cook evenly and keep it all in one piece!

Now that you know all the tools of the trade, make sure you’re locked and loaded for grilling season. The right tool makes all the difference!

Photos courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Dad’s big day is coming up and it’s time to celebrate!

Lots of us equate celebrating with food. Why? Because it’s how humans have shown love since the dawn of man.

And what better way to show Dad you love him than with a steak and beef-filled cookout?!?!!

To make sure we don’t forget a thing, let’s make a checklist for planning your Father’s Day cookout to make this cookout DA BOMB:

1. High-quality steaks, burgers and whatever kind of beef Dad loves

2. Veggies for amazing kabobs or fantastic, colorful side dishes

3. A clean grill!

4. Spatula/tongs for optimal grilling

5. Buns or bread

6. Dessert

7. Condiments, condiments, condiments

8. Plates, cups, utensils

9. Ice!

10. Beverages of Dad’s choice

11. A beautiful tablecloth/table setting – Dad-themed, of course!

12. Lots and lots of love!!!

Definitely tailor your fiesta to your specific needs but this is a great start. And check out some yummy menu ideas for Dad’s day over here. Hint:  Steak is the main course!

Follow this list and maybe you’ll find, like I have, that planning to celebrate someone is almost as fun as the celebration itself!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.