Make Dad’s Day Patio Perfect

When it comes to Father’s Day, most dads aren’t looking for anything fancy—just good food, cold drinks and a chance to relax. So skip the formality and fire up the grill instead.

A backyard patio party is just the thing for a leisurely, low-key celebration the whole family can enjoy. With a few easy-to-prepare dishes and some simple tasks for the kids, you can create a laid-back get-together that feels special without the stress.

So, grab your sunscreen and your spatula, and check out these recipes for a Father’s Day feast.

Even picky eaters tend to like these simple burgers.

Family Favorite Sliders

Makes 8-10 burgers

• 1 pound ground chuck
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• Hamburger buns
• Garnishes: Mustard, ketchup, pickles, lettuce, tomato, cheese

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Divide mixture into 8-10 pieces. Roll into balls and flatten into patties.
2. Preheat grill over medium-high heat. Cook patties 3-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Toast buns. Assemble burgers with buns and garnishes.

Adjust the mayo, mustard and relish depending on your tastes. If you’re not a sweet relish fan, swap it for dill.

Creamy Potato Salad

Serves 10

• 3 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons pickle juice (from jar of pickle relish)
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
• ¼ teaspoon celery seed
• 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 hard-boiled eggs, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Ground paprika

1. Place potatoes in a large saucepan, adding water to cover. Bring to boil over high heat; reduce heat and simmer about 8-10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
2. Drain potatoes and transfer to a large bowl. Fold in pickle juice and vinegar to coat potatoes. Let sit until just warm, about 30 minutes.
3. In a large serving bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard and celery seed. Add cooled potatoes; toss to coat. Fold in celery and pickle relish. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
4. Gently fold in diced eggs just before serving. Garnish with parsley.

This super simple cake recipe is a hit. Even kids can help make it. It’s great for Father’s Day or to take to a summer picnic.

Quick Lemonade Cake

Serves 16

• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1 (4-ounce) box lemon instant pudding mix
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease and flour a large Bundt pan. Make cake according to package directions, adding pudding mix and lemon juice. Pour into prepared pan. Bake as directed on package. Let cool 15 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edges to release from pan. Invert cake onto serving plate.
2. To make glaze: In a small bowl, whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over warm cake.

5 Ways Kids Can Help

1. Make decorations: Ask the kids to make signs, placemats or banners for the party. Pull out the crayons and markers and let them have fun while you prep the food.
2. Build a burger bar: Let the kids arrange the cheese, lettuce, pickles and other condiments on a tray for the burgers.
3. Create a drink station: Kids can set out cups, napkins and straws. Ask older kiddos to make the lemonade.
4. Make a veggie tray: Wash and slice some carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, broccoli and other favorites, then let the kids arrange them in a creative way.
5. Write a toast: Put the kids in charge of a toast for Dad. Let them know it doesn’t need to be perfect—something short and sweet before the meal will be meaningful.

Natalie Mikles is a mom of three. She writes about food, sharing recipes for busy families and picky eaters. She has been recognized for her food columns as well as features on families and issues affecting local children. Natalie loves pizza and movie nights with her family.