Gather the gang on Dad’s special day and host a backyard barbecue. Slow-smoke a beef brisket and serve some tasty sides, including cowboy beans and coleslaw, then top off the meal with homemade ice cream sandwiches. This menu is sure to impress — our tips and recipes will help you pull it off.

French Onion Dip Laced with caramelized onions, this fresh-tasting dip will disappear quickly at any party. Serve with a platter of crudités so guests can snack while you fire up the grill.

Smoky Root Beer Brisket Using a smoker box while grilling adds even more layers of barbecue flavor to this beef brisket. Slice into strips across the grain and arrange on a durable platter along with the onions. Don’t forget extra barbecue sauce on the side!

Cowboy Beans Smoke adds a distinctly campfire taste to this frontier classic. Throw in leftover smoked pork, ribs or brisket for a more substantial dish. Keep it casual and serve this side directly out of the pot, with plenty of grilled bread for mopping up the sauce.

Heirloom Tomato Salad Heirloom tomatoes are one of the glories of summer, and they shine in this salad, which is dressed simply with herbs and vinegar. Cut the tomatoes into hearty slices and layer on a platter for easy passing and family-style serving.

Molasses-Cider Coleslaw Flavored with molasses and apple cider vinegar, this crispy slaw is wonderful with brisket. Bonus: it’s an ideal dish to make a ahead. Cover and refrigerate in a serving bowl for a couple of hours before the celebration begins.

Ice Cream Sandwiches These old-fashioned classics are perfect for cooling down during summer. Add your own twist by using Dad’s favorite flavor of ice cream, or roll the edges in mini chocolate chips. These can also be made ahead and stored for up to 3 weeks, allowing you to spend more time with family on Father’s Day.