Summer's here and our cooking and party styles have changed with the season. We've put away our recipes for stews and mulled cider because now we're in the mood for salads, grilled food, and tall, cold drinks. Here are my favorite entertaining and cookbooks that perfectly suit the demands of summer parties.
1. Local Flavors, Cooking and Eating from Farmers' Markets
Before you head off for your local farmer's market, you'll want to check into this gorgeous book. Author Deborah Madison shares all of her secrets for successfully shopping at these markets, and gives wonderful recipes to help you use your produce.2. The Big Book of Outdoor Cooking and Entertaining
This book has everything from outdoor cooking recipes to themed menus, to overall party tips. As outdoor cooking experts Cheryl and Bill Jamison say, summer entertaining should "put the accent on fun, not high fashion."
3. Icebox Pies
This collection of cool, make-ahead desserts is the perfect antidote to a hot, summer kitchen.4. The BLT Cookbook
When tomatoes are in season, this is the time to indulge in one of the classics, the BLT. This cookbook gives ample justification for putting aside any thoughts of dieting in order to dig into this culinary indulgence while the tomatoes are still warm from the vine.5. Chicken on the Grill
Chicken cooked on the grill is a summertime favorite. This cookbook will help you to jazz up your traditional grilled chicken repertoire.6. Good Day for a Picnic
Jeremy Jackson creates the perfect attitude for a picnic with his simple recipes, packing and serving tips. With recipes for all courses, many will work for any summer get together where you need to contribute a dish or two, whether it's a potluck with the neighbors or a family reunion.7. A Return to Family Picnics
This beautifully photographed book provides 22 picnic menus with recipes that cover most summer occasions. Sample themes include: In the Garden; On the Lake; Tailgate Traditions. Even if you don't actually go on a picnic, reading this book will relax you all the same. This book would be a lovely gift for your favorite hostess.8. The Barbecue Bible
For many people it wouldn't be summer without spending most weekends around the barbecue. With this 500 recipe book in hand, you'll never get bored of the menu. Award winning author Steve Raichlen assembled an amazing collection of barbecue recipes from around the world.9. The Classic Zucchini Cookbook
Trust me. When at the height of summer you find zucchini showing up on your doorstep with no known donor, you'll want to find ways to use these bountiful gifts from the garden.10. Tiki Drinks
Who doesn't love a fun cocktail with a cute little paper umbrella during the summertime? This book will guide you in setting up your own tiki bar and give you recipes for many summer favorites including Banana Daiquiris, Pina Coladas and Coconut Kisses. The cool artwork of Adam Rocke is a refreshing treat, as well.