Grill Master 101 - The Easy Prep
By: Amy Holwerda
Published: April 27, 2011

According to the calendar, summer has been here for weeks now, but with freak weather like last week’s 3-inch snowstorm in the Midwest, it hasn’t felt like it. With forecasts looking up, and Labor Day just around the corner, I’ll be the first to shout it from the rooftops: summer is coming! Nothing says summer like a good old-fashioned barbecue, but before you haul out last winter’s frozen venison sausages, why don’t you take some time to prepare your grill for summer. With these easy-to-follow steps, friends and family will be kissing the cook in no time.
1. Inspect your grill to ensure that nothing is rusted, glossy, or rubbed down. These are all signs that certain parts are worn out and need to be replaced. Check the gas tubes to ensure that they’re not blocked (if they are, clear them with a pipe cleaner). To avoid injury, be sure to replace all worn parts before firing up.
2.  Attack the grates with hot soapy water – dish soap works best – and a flexible stainless steel brush. While it may be tempting to use sprays and oven cleaners, these can damage grills, and there’s no need for them if you’ve taken the time to scrub properly.
3. Wash down the walls of the grill, seeking out carbonized grease that can affect the taste of this year’s food. Wipe down the exterior of the grill, clearing away grease, spider webs, and any creepy-crawlies that moved in for the winter. Rinse and let dry.
4. Fire it up. Cover and let run for 15 minutes to ensure that everything’s working properly. And now, let the grilling begin! Be sure to check back at Foodista.com for barbecue information, recipes, and ideas throughout the summer.
Photo Source: woodlywonderworks