Maximize your time outdoors this Memorial Day weekend with a picnic-friendly spread of two-ingredient sandwiches, marinated sides, classic chocolate chip cookies, and a fruity beer cocktail that’s a spin on the classic shandy. See the menu for a Memorial Day Picnic »

Keep the grill going all evening with a menu of internationally inspired dishes: A juicy grilled rib eye is perfectly matched with charred scallions, sweet grilled tomatoes, and earthy, garlicky mushrooms. Mexican rice pudding pops end the meal on a cold, sweet note, and a pitcher cocktail made with ripe summer strawberries makes an ideal backyard sipper. See the menu for a Global Grilling Spread »

For a backyard barbecue, you can’t go wrong with a menu of East Coast favorites. The simplicity of these dishes is masked by a depth of flavors: Flank steak gets a kick from a coffee and soy sauce marinade, and chicken is rubbed with a fiery blend of dried spices and basted in tangy duck sauce. Add a few simple sides and an easy berry dessert for a relaxed summer celebration. See the menu for an East Coast Cookout »

With lobster, oysters, fresh sweet corn on the grill, creamy shrimp chowder, potato and iceberg salads, baked beans, and more, this menu of classic coastal New England delights is perfect for entertaining outdoors this summer. Make the side dishes ahead, and enjoy a cooling gin and tonic while you man the grill. See the menu for a New England Seafood Cookout »

This Mediterranean-inspired feast is simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for a holiday. Nibble spears of prosciutto-wrapped asparagus accompanied by grilled polenta, eggplant, and sea bass wrapped in fig leaves. As the grill cools down, finish with a refreshing slice of strawberry and hazelnut meringue to cap off a perfect meal. See the menu for a Early Summer Grilling »

This menu of casual backyard barbecue fare fits the bill perfectly: Start off with pitchers of spicy summery cocktails paired with finger foods like deviled eggs and pickled watermelon, then warm up the grill for Alabama-style chicken sandwiches and burgers served with a colorful array of toppings. Tangy coleslaw, barbecued baked beans, and a salad of fresh spring greens round out the offerings. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—rhubarb pie topped with homemade ice cream! See the menu for a Memorial Day BBQ »