Summer is nearly here and what better way to celebrate than with a fabulous meal al fresco? Whether you're trying to woo your sweetheart or keep the kids cool and happy at the beach or pool, our menu ideas are sure to delight.

Food safety concerns increase when the weather heats up, so make sure your picnic food arrives safely by keeping it on ice on the way to your destination. If you're making the delicious shrimp or chicken recipes below, follow the cooking instructions, then allow the food to cool and refrigerate it until picnic time. See the related links above for more tips on safe food.

Romance Under the Stars Greens and Figs with Blue Cheese Hearts of Palm Salad Grilled Shrimp Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Pick up a baguette and a bottle of your favorite wine to enjoy under the summer sky!

Beach Blanket Picnic Potato Chips without Hips Grilled Chicken with Oranges and Avocados   or Grilled Portobello Sandwich Orzo Salad Angel Cake with Summer Fruit Salad and Raspberry Sauce

Backyard Cookout Cherry Tomato Salad with Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette Old-Fashioned Potato Salad Grilled Chicken with Honey-Mustard Glaze Strawberry Sundaes

Homerun Refuel Red Pepper Dip with Pine Nuts Served with Pita wedges and fresh vegetables Grilled Turkey Burgers with Corn and Tomato Relish Marinated Coleslaw Applesauce Oatmeal-Raisin Cookies