Oh boy! Memorial Day gets me going every year.... its the (early) start of summer and everyone wants to barbecue. And I mean Barbecue, BBQ, Barbeque, Bar-B-Q, Bar-be-que, 'Cue... doesn't matter what you call it, what you think it means, or what state you call home. Memorial Day unites all Americans over outdoor cookery. To this new england native, "a bbq" is simply a gathering of family and friends with the host cooking something on a grill. Could be burgers and dogs. Might be chicken. Maybe you'll score some smoked ribs. Might be a gas grill. Could be a weber kettle. Maybe a five-dollar hibatchi. Just about the only thing you can be sure of, is that at a bbq, you'll find friends and family ready to toss back a few drinks, lounge in the sun, shoot the shit, and eat some fire-cooked goodness.

So it's in that spirit of friendly gatherings that I've pulled together a few of my favorite grill recipes from over the years that are bound to please. You don't want to be worrying about what to make, you want to be kicking it with your friends, right? So if you're unsure of what to make this weekend and are looking for a few good ideas, please read on!

Old-School Barbecued Chicken: This is the classic sweet and saucy barbecued chicken you're always hoping you'll get at a bbq. I've made my fair share of bbq'd chicken, and I always come back to this recipe. You need a little patience on the grill, but its honestly some of the best grilled chicken you'll have. I'm in love with it. Only word of caution is to avoid chicken breasts... you want drums, thighs, and wings for this recipe. 

Classic Grilled Burgers: Who doesn't like a good grilled burger? Who doesn't struggle to actually make one when summer comes around? A burger is simple, but not always the easiest thing to cook. I learned the base of this recipe from my neighbor when i was 13 in a suburb of boston. He said his dad always added oregano and worcestershire to the meat, and i couldn't agree more that it's a killer combination with beef. Try it, I think you'll love it.  

Pineapple-Chiptle Babyback Ribs: Want ribs? These are not your traditional sweet/saucy ribs, but then again you only need an hour to make these guys instead of six... so who's complaining? These ribs are super fresh, with a great lime/pineapple zing and a solid spice kick from the chipotle. They are a classic and old-standby in my house. Totally delicious.  

Grilled Rib Steak: This is a mega-steak that can feed two to three people. You could easily make four of these to feed a crowd. Its super simple, and insanely delicious. I'd bet you'll be crowned "Grill King" this weekend if you give this steak a shot.

Grill-Smoked Buffalo Wings: if you like hot wings, these boys are for you. Despite the long read, these are actually really simple. You need to be patient on the grill, but you'll be rewarded with a pile of juicy, crispy, and spicy wings. Make sure you have a roll of paper towels by your side and a case of Pabst in the fridge. 

Fish Tacos with Tomatillo Salsa: Meat not your thing? These fish tacos are your ticket! One thing I've always hated about grilling fish is that it cooks so quickly and I often feel like I'm wasting a grill full of hot coals. But like a true new england yankee should, this recipe uses the coals for a longer period because you're grill-roasting the salsa ingredients. Go charcoal! Go Red Sox!  

Bacon-Caramel-Popcorn Sundae: If it's hot where you are this weekend, ice cream will be a welcomed dessert. And this salty-sweet sundae will be a huge hit. I swear this is the best sundae I've ever had. The key is good ingredients across the board. Man oh man, this thing kicks ass!