16 Dishes Not Allowed at Any Black Cookout This Summer

As we progress further into the summer, it’s time we lay some rules down for one of the most common gatherings Black folks enjoy: the cookout.

Whether it’s a high school graduation, the 4th of July or just nice weather, we don’t need too many excuses to “throw sum on the grill.” Next thing you know, what began with a party of four turns into a full-fledged family gathering.

With that being said, there’s a set menu of foods to expect on the table. Similar to Thanksgiving, there are some dishes only certain family members are commissioned to make while there are other dishes that are just downright not allowed. If you need a reminder of what NOT to bring to the cookout this summer, check out these 16 dishes for reference.

Pizza

Just lazy.

Mashed Potatoes

Really? We already got potatoes in the potato salad. It’s too hot for allat.

Potato Salad with Raisins

Why would you ruin the main attraction of the assembly line? Raisins? Nasty work.

Ambrosia Salad

Ew. A fruit platter will do just fine.

Vegan Meats

Don’t you come near the grill with that mess. You want to get on Unc’s bad side? Try your luck.

Spaghetti

Please. Your kids came to this cookout to eat something other than dinner leftovers.

Mac n Cheese with Breadcrumbs

Baked cheesey top. Crispy edges. Nothing else.

Cheese Tray

The dish won’t necessarily get you in trouble. It will just sit there, pretty at the end of the assembly line... untouched. Nice thought, though!

Anything Canned

We take pride in homemade food. We can tell the difference between the store-bought baked beans and the real deal.

Gelatin Dishes

Warm Jell-O? You’re better off throwing some liquor in there and tossing it in the cooler. Then, we can talk.

Off-Brand Drinks

I don’t know anyone but Schweppes and Sprite. If they go by another name, they will be shuffled to the bottom of the cooler and remain there by the time the ice melts.

French Fries

If we wanted them, McDonald’s is just a trip down the street. Don’t be childish. (If they’re curly fries... they’ll be on my plate and mine only.)

Gluten-Free Buns

Bring them for yourself if you need them but don’t force the rest of us to eat them with you.

Ice Cream

The dessert everyone will forget about anyway because it’s stored in the freezer so it won’t melt outside.

Tupperware... for Yourself

Greedy! Bring enough for everyone to save a plate.

Empty-Handed

You know better. Run to the store and grab some napkins or cups at least.