Whether plucked from the backyard, gifted by a friendly neighbor or picked up from the local farmers market, garden-fresh veggies are the stars of my summer dreams. That’s why the current issues of Taste of Home and Simple & Delicious just may be my favorite of the year. They’re bursting with crunchy, colorful salads to perk up potlucks, beautiful berry-filled breakfasts to make mornings brighter and fresh sides that help keep you cool all summer.

Of course, I gotta give it up for grilling season, too. There’s just something about taking a stroll outside in the evening with that irresistible scent of charcoal wafting through the neighborhood. As soon as it hits me, I practically speedwalk home to put my own big steak, juicy burger or bubbly pizza over the coals. I bet as soon as you see the grilled gorgeousness in our pages, you’ll scurry outside to fire yours up just as fast. And if you do, sizzle up some extra for a hungry neighbor that just may be bounding by.

Here’s to happy season,