Of all the seasons, summer offers countless opportunities to get outside for food, fun, and fellowship. To jump-start these gatherings, combine familiar foods with fresh flavor. Yes, they taste good, but you'll find these dishes have a bonus--they're wholesome too. Head out the door with your plate to take advantage of heavenly days of blue skies and sunny weather. It will do the body and soul good.

Shredded Flank Steak Mini- Sandwiches Pickled Shrimp Tangy Bean Salad Key Lime-Coconut Mini-Cheesecakes

This article is from the June 2005 issue of Southern Living.