Sure, summer is all about fantastic in-season veggies, but sometimes you need to take an afternoon to sit back, relax and smell the hickory smoke. Low-and-slow BBQ and grilled meats are definite highlights of my summer.

My heart skipped a beat when, browsing the booths at New York’s Meatopia event, I caught sight of this beautiful, whole roasted pig, courtesy of Smokin’ Joe’s True-Blue Texas Barbecue.

I waited my turn in line and was rewarded with a small pile of tender, succulent pork topped with a non-traditional, creamy herb sauce. Devine.

But "Meatopia" didn't stop there! Check out more pictures of the cookout on Food2.

For DIY BBQ, check out the Neelys' step-by-step guide to pulled pork at home and Alton's tips for using your grill as a smoker.

What’s the barbecue highlight of your summer? We want to hear about the best BBQ you ever ate.