When you think about a barbecue, most people think of slabs of ribs, but you don't need to do that in today's culinary barbecue world. Short ribs, barbecue chicken, skewered shrimp, vegetable kebabs, lobster mac and cheese with or without the lobster, and a donut bread pudding for dessert that's absolutely amazing. These are things that are safe whether you're a novice or a professional. Be creative and stay within your culinary pantheon.

Great cooking is about being inspired by the simple things around you - fresh markets, various spices. It doesn't necessarily have to look fancy.

Backyard barbecues are really just about getting together. It's all about making people come over, having a really good time, talking about their lives, and sharing some great recipes.

When you think about a barbecue, most people think of slabs of ribs, but you don't need to do that in today's culinary barbecue world. Short ribs, barbecue chicken, skewered shrimp, vegetable kebabs, lobster mac and cheese with or without the lobster, and a donut bread pudding for dessert that's absolutely amazing. These are things that are safe whether you're a novice or a professional. Be creative and stay within your culinary pantheon.

If I had to have a favorite chef, I'd probably say I like Guy Fieri.

If you have a sweet tooth, you'll have a sweet mouth when you're done, because all your teeth are going to be sweet.