From home produce deliveries to community farmers markets and entire neighborhoods built around a farm, healthy living and eating go hand-in-hand these days. Now that summer is in full swing, your table is likely filled with wonderful summertime treats.

Interested in sharing your bountiful harvest? Why not host a summer get-together with plenty of fresh dishes. Here are a few possibilities to inspire your menu:

Refreshment – Cucumber and Lemon Infused Water
Cut a cucumber and lemon into thin slices and submerge in ice water (or sparkling water) for at least one hour. Garnish a glass with a slice of lemon and cucumber and enjoy this refreshing summer beverage.

Starter – Fresh Salsa
Mix 3-4 large tomatoes with a chopped onion, a handful of fresh cilantro, a diced jalapeno and a drizzle of fresh lime juice for a spicy crowd-pleasing starter.

Side – Roasted Corn on the Cob
Nothing complements a BBQ get together as well as roasted corn on the cob. Soak the ears in water and then toss them on the grill along with your burgers and ribs.

Main Course – Pasta Primavera
This colorful dish combines many of your favorite vegetables including tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, green and red peppers, and onion. Roast or saute the veggies until tender and then toss them with penne or farfalle and a light coating of olive oil and herbs.

Dessert – Berry Shortcake
Make short work of dessert by topping angel food cake with a mix of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries and a dollop of whipped cream.

Kid-Favorite -Fruit Kabobs
Instead of Skittles, kids can taste the rainbow of these colorful, fun and delicious treats. Using wooden skewers, stack bite-size pieces of watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, green grapes, blueberries and blackberries for this rainbow treat.

For more Handy Homeowner tips on hosting a get-together, visit us here.

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