15 Random-but-Useful Products That Make Outdoor Cooking and Dining a Breeze

Once grilling season arrives, we host every chance we get. But there are always so many in-the-moment instances that make us realize we could’ve be better equipped (like when our flawless salmon fillets get stuck to the grates or we end up making s’mores on the stove because we don’t have a fire pit). So, this year, we’re planning ahead for the most epic barbecues, picnics and dinner parties we’ve ever thrown. Read on for 15 random-but-useful products you had no idea you needed.

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RELATED: The 10 Best Outdoor Grills for Aspiring and Expert Grillers Alike

1. Jordan Manufacturing Solid 44-Inch Outdoor Dining Chair Cushion

Is it just us or do your patio chairs get less and less comfortable every year? Make them cozy with weather-resistant, durable cushions that’ll add a pop of color to your backyard dining area.

2. Bed Bath and Beyond Food Tent in Green and Blue, Set of Two

Keep bugs, stray leaves and debris off your burgers, steaks and dogs. The food tents will hold their own against the wind, plus keep the tablecloth from sliding.

3. Picnic at Ascot Trellis Green Wine & Cheese Cooler

A charcuterie date in the park or yard has never been easier to pull off. This convenient travel bag with leak-proof lining is complete with a cheese knife, cutting board and corkscrew.

4. Fermob Luxembourg Outdoor Bar Cart

Sick of walking alllll the way back to the kitchen for a refill? Keep the essentials on hand with a wheeled bar cart. Store liquor bottles on the bottom, glassware on top and straws, garnishes and syrups in the open condiment compartment.

5. Crate and Barrel Grilling Glove

Not only will this heat-resistant, aramid fiber glove protect your hand at the grill, smoker or campfire, but it can also double as a standard oven mitt indoors.

6. Picnic Time Catalina Picnic Basket in Plaid

This all-in-one basket has lunch date written all over it. It’s made of hand-woven willow with suitcase-style leatherette handles, and includes plates, mugs, silverware and even salt and pepper shakers.

7. Weber Connect Smart Grilling Hub

PSA: Opening the grill every ten seconds to check on your food lets out all the heat. This accessory will send an alert to your phone when it’s time to flip and remove your meat, poultry or fish, so you can relax while it cooks.

8. Keter Breeze Bar Patio Entertainment Cooler

It’s tough hosting guests when your dining surface needs to double as a prep area. Keep them separate with this beverage and condiment station. Fill the insulated lower chamber with ice and drinks, then arrange snacks, glassware, napkins and condiments on the top-tier serving table.

9. OXO Good Grips Grilling Tool Rest

Never awkwardly balance tongs, a spatula and a beer while grilling again. Made of heat-resistant nonstick silicone, this tool rest will help keep your hands free. (There are even two raised prongs to hold unlocked tongs steady when not in use.)

10. Q & A Santa Barbara Outdoor Bar Table

There are only so many seats at the picnic table. Propping this powder-coated aluminum gem up on the deck offers your guests another place to rest their drinks and plates.

11. Bed Bath and Beyond Nonstick Grilling Mesh

All the nonstick ability of aluminum foil, minus the waste. It’s made of nonstick-coated fiberglass, so food will slide right off once it’s cooked. And it’s prime for grilling small foods that might otherwise slip through the grates, like shrimp or veggies.

12. Kettlepizza Gas Pro Deluxe Set

If you don’t have the budget or space for an outdoor pizza oven, this appliance (which comes with a pizza stone and aluminum peel, BTW) can help. Just pop it on top of a gas grill to crisp your pie to perfection.

13. Mason Craft & More 3-Gallon 6-Piece Mason Jar Drink Dispenser Set

No one should have to play bartender at their own party. Make a big-batch cocktail in this farmhouse-inspired dispenser instead, so your guests can help themselves.

14. OXO Good Grips Fish Turner

We’ve accidentally destroyed far too many pieces of tilapia to overlook the necessity of a fish turner. This one’s beveled edge slides beneath whole fish, fillets and seafood cakes like a charm, while the slots allow for excess fat to drain.

15. Sterno S’mores Maker Jr. Kit in Black

We can hear your kids squealing with glee already. This compact appliance eliminates the chore of building a fire just to roast a few ’mallows and allows you to keep the party outside, instead of forcing you to use the stove or oven.

RELATED: 20 Grilling Accessories That Seriously make Outdoor Cooking So Much Easier (and Tastier)

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