The upcoming Presidents Day – a day to honor and celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present – has us thinking of all the ways we can celebrate the great country that we live in. And the first thing that comes to mind? Some good old-fashioned American barbecue! Show your Presidents Day pride this February by trying out some of the best American barbecue recipes. Here are a few of our favorites.

Beef Brisket

The classic beef brisket is a pretty easy and straightforward dish to make. The only hold-up? It takes time. Grab your best barbecue rub and sauce and slather it on, and then cook low and slow. Before you know it, you’ll have juicy, tender brisket. A smoker is highly recommended for cooking this cut of meat.

Smoked Barbecue Ribs

Always a classic, barbecue ribs are oh-so-delicious when paired with a few of our go-to barbecue sides (we’re looking at you, mac ‘n’ cheese and potato salad). Whether you choose to slow roast them in the oven or grill them on the barbecue, each bite is just as flavorful as the first. Fall-off-the-bone good, this recipe wins us over every time.

Barbecue Chicken Wings

The best part of chicken wings is how incredibly customizable they are! Choose to go with a classic like those drenched in barbecue sauce, opt for sweeter baked honey barbecue chicken wings, or you can even mix it up with a dip in some parmesan and fresh garlic. These are good all on their own, or accompanied by some trusty barbecue sides. Speaking of ...

It’s All In the Sides

Your main course can be good and all, but what about the amazing sides that really make a meal a home run? Favorites like baked beans, creamy potato salad, and grilled corn on the cob add a little zest to each American main.

Get patriotic this Presidents Day with these six tried and true patriotic dishes. For more tips on eating like a pro, visit the Vive blog.