Pull out the checkered tablecloth and celebrate summer by planning the perfect picnic for your family, friends and neighbors by incorporating healthy appetizers, salads and mains. Whether your plate is paper plastic or fine china, fill half of it with fruits and vegetables, and show your guest the importance of a well-balanced meal.

An abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables are in season so make sure that your plate is brimming with watermelon, raspberries and corn! And if you can't decide on what you want to make for future summer cook-outs, try the USDA's recipe finder for inspiration. Check out some of our favorite summer recipes:  

Salads:

• Chicken Waldorf Salad
• Bulgar Chickpea Salad
• Outtasight Salad
• Fire and Ice Watermelon Salad

Lunch Recipes

• Romaine Lettuce Roll-Ups
• Country Style Potato Salad

Dinner Recipes

• Spicy Southern Barbecued Chicken
• Grilled Vegetables

Snack, Side, & dessert Recipes

• Banana Sushi
• Mock Southern Sweet Potato Pie
• Lemon Velvet Supreme
• Strawberry Banana Smoothie
• Soul-Healthy Cornbread