Summer is close by and it's almost time to entertain family and friends. In fact, you are probably already planning for graduations, family reunions and summer holidays. With that, of course, comes all of the meal planning. You may even be the one who throws the cookout that everyone can't wait to get to each year, but you're finding yourself out of ideas. Have you considered a spit roast for your next party?

A spit roast is an open flame cookout of a pig. Yes, the huge hog is secured to a spit and slow roasted at your cookout for everyone to see! Here are the golden nuggets that will make this a hit at your party.

For one, it is a major attraction. Unless it is a part of the country where spit roasting hogs is a regular event, your guests will likely have never seen one before. The little children will be highly entertained at this monstrous display. Your guests will certainly have something to talk about.

Your family and friends will have more than enough to eat in addition to it being a main attraction. Your roast will provide more than enough meat and will also offer a large variety of options. Obviously ham will be available immediately after the pork is finished cooking. However, you can be creative and offer lots to please your friends such as dipping sauces for the pig. Your offerings can include pulled pork or chopped bbq sandwiches, which everyone seems to enjoy. You can also shave the pork and offer fresh fried skins. The possibilities are as great as your imagination.

Another nice benefit of a spit roast is that it is healthier than many forms of cooking meat, simply because the amount of fat and oil is decreased in this rotisserie method of cooking.

Yes, there are also benefits for the cook. Spit roasting does not require constant monitoring, allowing the cook to enjoy the event as well. The most amount of work involved is the prep time in the beginning. Once the hog is secured and cooking, all can enjoy the cookout with little work left.

You may be wondering about the cost. You will not need to worry yourself with a large variety of meat. It is cost effective partly because you are not paying per person as you would in a catered event.

A spit fire roast is the perfect choice for your next summer party. Your guests will have a lot of fun. It is a healthier choice. It is also less expensive and don't forget, it allows the cook to join the party instead of slaving over coals all day. Your guests will be full and they will never forget the spectacular event of watching an entire pig-on-a-stick. Your guests will remember you for your spit roast party.