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We firmly believe that grilling season doesn’t have an expiration date, yet so many of us cover our barbecues and smokers once a chill hits the air. We’re not alone in feeling this way. The “Magician of Meat,” Pat LaFrieda, Jr., also agrees with us. We caught up with him and asked him about grilling beyond Labor Day and if there are any differences you need to be aware of.

Just like wearing white after Labor Day is a no-no, are there similar rules with barbecue?
If you pack up your grill for the winter after Labor Day, you are no longer a member of the LaFrieda family. Grill all winter — the colder it is, the more you will appreciate the food coming off the grill.

Is it true that food takes longer to barbecue in cooler weather? Why?
It’s not completely true. If you heat up the grill a few minutes earlier than usual you’ll be good to go.

What’s your best tip for the home cook on grilling indoors?
Unless you have great ventilation, don’t do it — you can continue to grill outside into the colder months.

What are some safety tips for grilling outdoors in fall/winter?
Using a light that can attach to the grill is a must, as it gets darker a lot quicker in the fall and winter months. This tip usually gets overlooked, but having a pair of warm boots for the winter months is also a must for me.

Make it the year of barbecue for your family with these recipes.