Summer is the ideal time of year to throw a party – The days last longer and the air is always warm! Barbecues are best on a summer evening when you can get together with friends and just kick back.

Whether you’re seeking recipes for your 4th of July party, or simply want to plan a quiet evening with friends, we’ve got you covered. Our team at DrivetheNation.com has compiled some of our favorite summer barbecue recipes that are sure to make mouths water at any party:

Best-Ever Barbecue Chicken

Grilled ChickenWe love barbecue chicken and know you will love this recipe, too. With a delicious sauce to pair with its perfectly grilled chicken, this dish will be sure to shine at any party!

Creamy Potato Salad With Bacon

Who doesn’t love potato salad? This recipe takes it two steps further with the additions of a creamy, delectable sauce and fresh herbs to balance out the flavors. Don’t forget to add the bacon!

Mama’s Baked Beans

What is a barbecue without a side of baked beans? Definitely not a barbecue! This recipe has the classic, mouthwatering, molasses notes that everybody enjoys. Yum!

Oven Cooked Melt-in-Your-Mouth Barbecue Ribs

Grilled RibsQ: What is drizzled in sauce and melts in your mouth? A: This recipe, of course! It’s easy to make because it doesn’t require a grill. It’s also a great choice for families who enjoy the taste of ribs, but don’t have access to a grill to prepare them traditionally.

Macaroni and Cheese

This side is a perfect pairing with any barbecue dish! Already a favorite among kids everywhere, this recipe also adds a more sophisticated flavor to a classic dish. Of course, it’s not too sophisticated for a backyard barbecue!

Peach Pie

This flavorful southern recipe would be an outstanding addition to any barbeque! The sweetness of the peaches is superb with the sprinkling of nutmeg and the tanginess of the lemon juice. This will be sure to wow at any summer party!

Maple Corn Bread

Corn bread on a plateNothing says “southern” like the taste of old-fashion corn bread. With the added ingredient of maple syrup, this recipe’s flavor is taken one step further. The sweetness of the syrup balances out the smokiness of the barbecue exquisitely. You just can’t go wrong!

Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie

This vegan recipe is delicious! With decadent chocolate and light whipped cream, you wouldn’t even guess this was vegan!

Lemon and Thyme Grilled Chicken Breasts

The classic combination of lemon and thyme has been around forever. Now that it is paired with grilled chicken, it adds a whole new meaning to a barbecue! The “deep, smoky flavor” (cooking.nytimes.com) is a perfect match with the elegant lemon combo.

Double Apple Pie

Apple Pie

You can never go wrong with an apple pie, and a double apple pie is double the fun! With the delicate taste of the brown sugar and the spiciness of the cinnamon, this would be an awesome addition to your barbecue.

What’s your favorite barbecue food? We would love to hear from you! Share your recipes in the comment section below.