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Cool & Casual

Section: Food

Suddenly Salad

Family Features) - When it's summertime and the livin' is easy, we all look forward to cool and casual meals with friends and family. The days are longer, the weather is hotter, and we want dishes that are easy to make and wonderful to eat.

No wonder savory and versatile salads are such a favorite summertime hit — from delicious pasta salads to fresh fruit and vegetable medleys. They're satisfying side dishes or well-suited for the main entrée, depending on the occasion and the whim of the cook. Pasta salads are perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners because they appeal to almost everyone. For picnics or backyard barbecues, pasta salads can be made ahead of time and served chilled or offered alongside vegetables, burgers, steaks or chicken hot off the grill.

It's easy to keep your cool with recipes like these. Garlic Beef Bruschetta, an easy-to-make summer recipe that won't require heating up the kitchen, delivers favorite Italian flavors. Serve as an appetizer or pair with a pasta salad for a fast, delicious meal. And what better drink to serve on a hot day than a tall, icy glass of Lemonade Tea garnished with a fresh mint sprig?

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