Summer Menus

Get our best summer meal plans and party ideas for a great summer of outdoor entertaining and eating.

Your Top Grilling Questions Answered

Grilling experts share their tips and secrets for great grilling and answer your burning questions.

Food Safety Tips for Grilling

No matter what type of meat you're cooking or what kind of grill you're using, handling meats and poultry safely is crucial.

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Sauce Seeker

Get our recipe recommendations for the grill or find a flavorful sauce that matches your palette.

Cooking Light's Ultimate Summer Cookbook

Discover your summer cooking and entertaining destination on the web, complete with cooling drinks, fun appetizers, company-worthy main dishes, and fresh desserts.

Party by the Pool

Beat the heat and get some sun with a cool 'n' casual gathering.

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Casual Menu from the Grill

Entertaining is easy when you take it outside. If you need a stress-free evening with friends, here's a great menu. (Serves 6-8)

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Classic Grilled Steak Dinner

This quick grilled meal is supercharged with flavor from a tasty rub. (Serves 4)

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Sweet 'n' Smoky Grilled Seafood Dinners

These recipes all feature a sweet touch of sugar, honey, fruit, or maple syrup balanced with grilled seafood's naturally smoky flavors.

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Wine Pairings for Grilled Foods

Bring out the best in your summer menu by serving the perfect wine with grilled chicken, seafood, steak, and more.

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21 Steak Menus for the Grill

Fire up your grill and enjoy savory cuts of sirloin, fillet, and rib-eye cooked to perfection over an open flame.

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5 Creative Recipes for the Grill

Break out of your burger habit this summer with these 5 creative recipes for the grill.

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Budget-Friendly Party Idea: B.Y.O.Beef

Spend a little to get a lot of big summer fun with this easy summer party idea.

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Mexican Grill Party

This Mexican-inspired menu adds a south-of-the-border flair to traditional grilling alfresco entertaining.

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Girls' Night In: Girls at the Grill

Dress up the traditional summer cookout with these tips for hosting a feminine, flame-kissed alfresco dinner.

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Burgers in the Backyard

Invite family and friends for a casual outdoor gathering that celebrates the best of summer. (Serves 8-10)

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Kid-Friendly Parties

Plan a birthday bash for the little one in your house. No life-sized stuffed animals (or tokens) required.

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Fresh Summer Appetizers

Get great summer appetizer ideas to serve guests at warm-weather cookouts.

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15 No-Cook Appetizers

Summer entertaining is easy with these delicious appetizers that keep you on the porch–and out of the kitchen.

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