As the daylight lingers longer each day, the more carnivorous folk start salivating in anticipation. Barbecue season approaches, liberating meat lovers from the less-flavorful pan-fried steak or bland poached chicken breasts. Likewise, the vegetarians in the family rejoice in the prospect of grilled summer squash or roasted beets and corn, rather than settling for another head of iceberg lettuce and canned beans. For juicy burgers and veggie kabobs at home or at the lake, industry leader Weber offers their portable Q-100 gas grill. The propane grill employs an 8,500-BTU stainless-steel burner to heat its 189-square-inch cooking area. Weber crafted the grill's lid and body in tough cast aluminum with a sturdy glass-reinforced nylon frame. The grill ignites at the push of a button for reliable lighting, and an infinitely adjustable burner valve with a high-quality regulator makes it easy to control the heat. Meat sizzles on the porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, while drippings follow the drip ducts to reduce potential flare-ups and enable quicker cleaning. Other highlights include a flavorizer system integrated into the cooking grate, a removable catch pan, and a large weather-resistant lid handle. The grill operates on a standard 14.1- or 16.4-ounce propane cylinder. Propane does not come included, but Weber does enclose a Weber Q cookbook of recipes and inspiration. The grill measures 16 by 27 by 23-1/2 inches with the lid open and carries a five-year limited warranty. --Jessica Reuling
