This is the best time of year for gathering with friends for picnics, cookouts or any other kind of backyard party. These are some of my favorite take-along dishes for such occasions. Enjoy!

Italian Deli Tortellini Salad
For a big-flavor twist on pasta salad, I let my imagination run wild through an Italian deli case and all the salty, meaty, cheesy flavors one might find there.

Tzatziki Potato Salad
As summer inches toward its end, I have been considering ways to liven up my basic potato salad recipe, and it occurred to me that tzatziki—the bold and zesty, Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce—could be a terrific addition to a potato salad.

Tangy Apple Cole Slaw
My go-to creamy cole slaw gets a tart and tangy update from Granny Smith apple and a specialty vinegar. It’s a perfect side for whatever you’re grilling in these waning days of summer.

Zesty Three Bean Salad
Unlike the so-sweet version I grew up with, this updated salad is zesty with plenty of garlic and fresh herbs. It’s easy to make and perfect for summer picnics!

Orange & Honey-Ginger Fruit Salad
It’s a rare occasion for me to share a “two-ingredient” hack, but this simple twist is so easy and flavorful, you need to try it at least once this summer!

Fourth of July Baked Beans
My recipe for maple and bacon baked beans brings back sweet summertime memories of family Fourth of July celebrations!

Bleu Cheese Potato Salad
It started as a casual idea for a different kind of potato salad, and this cool, creamy, easy side has earned itself a regular spot in our summer rotation!

Dilly-Dilly, Double-Heat Potato Salad
This salad is saving spring for me—with fresh dill, pickles, jalapeno and horseradish, it’s a perfectly cool, savory side to any casual meal for Passover or Easter.

Citrus & Fennel Salad with Olives
This salad is bringing lots of color to the table, and I can taste the sunshine in the beautiful winter citrus!