bbq

As Memorial Day opens the gate to summer, we all begin to plan our outdoor activities. Most of us will find a reason to get outside for the long weekend and enjoy food, friends, family and some delicious beverages. And really, it wouldn’t be a summer holiday without some grilling.

Whoa, hold on there a minute Mr. Amateur Barbecue Chef. I hope you're not just planning on slapping that burger patty on the grill without doing a little prep work first. If you have people are coming over for a Memorial Day barbecue and looking forward to a great, juicy burger -- make sure they get one.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of barbecue season and will find many Americans firing up the grill this holiday weekend. Part of the beauty of grilling is its simplicity. But that shouldn't mean you can't improve your grill repertoire or technique. We've compiled a list of recipes and tips that can help you become a master of the open flame. Check them out after the jump.

In honor of Memorial Day, and all the barbecuing that will take place during the three-day weekend, we've compiled a gallery of handmade aprons from craft site Etsy that are sure to let everyone know who's boss of the grill. - Contributed by Jeremy Taylor