Great Summer Outdoor Meals

By Cindy Adams

Heading into Summer means it is time for outdoor grilling. It is that time of the year to go outdoors and celebrate the 4th of July or any summer day with family and friends. Heartland Living is bringing you some of our favorite meals. Check out these recipes that are traditional burgers and chicken recipes, along with some healthy vegetables and refreshing tea. Happy Summer!

Grilled Vegetables

Crisp-tender grilled veggies served with a tangy, garlic basil sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound trimmed asparagus
1 pound cherry tomatoes
8 ounces cremini mushrooms
3 ears corn, each cut crosswise into 4 pieces
3 zucchini, cut lengthwise
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

BASIL GARLIC SAUCE
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic. chopped
1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves
3 tablespoons packed fresh parsley leaves
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.

2. Basil garlic sauce. Combine olive oil, vinegar, Dijon, garlic, basil and parsley in the bowl of a food processor until smooth and vibrant green; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.

3. Brush olive oil onto the asparagus, tomatoes, mushrooms, corn and zucchini; season with salt and pepper, to taste.

4. Add vegetables to grill and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly charred all over, about 3-4 minutes for the asparagus, tomatoes and mushrooms and about 5-8 minutes for the corn and zucchini.

5. Serve immediately, and you are going to want basil garlic sauce on everything!