There's no summer tradition more fulfilling than gathering around the grill for a good old-fashioned BBQ. Cat Cora, however, has something slightly different in mind. With roots in Mississippi by way of Greece, there's a certain global feel to everything she cooks, and she always fills her menus with fiery flavors from around the world.

A great barbecue is all about food and friends, so don't go crazy sprucing up the patio. Just get a fire going and have some fun!

Cat's Tips for a Crowd-Pleasing 'Cue Buy a roll of brightly colored paper to make a throwaway table runner.

Serve the menu as a buffet, or seat everyone at a big table and pass the food family style.

Too cold or rainy to grill outside? Make it an indoor BBQ with the same table decorations and lots of candles. Use the broiler, a grill pan or a Tuscan fireplace grill to cook the chicken.

Add a little variety to your menu by substituting steak for chicken. Serve it thinly sliced across the grain and fanned out on a platter with a little chimichurri sauce drizzled on top.

Round out the meal by grilling some corn on the cob and brushing it with a mixture of softened butter, lime juice and chili powder.