If you couldn’t tell, I’ve been taking a few months off from the kitchen. Combine the chef’s version of writer’s block with getting Lulu & the Box launched, and what do you get? Radio silence.

Welp, a long weekend is upon us! Tis the season to put on your swimsuit, scream ‘Merica at the top of your lungs, drink adult beverages and celebrate your freedom to wear panda bear pajama pants in public… although I hope you rethink that decision and don’t.

Not sure what to make for that picnic you’re having or invited to this weekend? Here’s a roundup of some of my favorites.

Click on the photo to be taken directly to the recipe.

On the Grill

Meat & veggies over fire. Can’t go wrong, unless you get too close to the flame and singe off half an eyebrow. Trust me, I know this from experience

• The Austin Burger
• Lemon Pepper Chicken Burgers
• Bacon Cilantro Lime Burgers
• Grilled Zucchini

Salads

This is about the only mayo-based chicken salad I can get behind. As for the watermelon, getting fancy and hollowing one out yields a LOT of frickin’ watermelon. Again, I know this from experience.

• Sriracha Chicken Salad
• Watermelon Mojito Salad

Dessert & Drinks

Heads up, the ice cream needs a good 12-24 hours of advance prep time. The other 3 can gloriously be thrown together in minutes.

• Agave Margarita Fizz
• Dairy-Free Vanilla Ice Cream
• No-Bake Coco Cocoa Bars
• PB&J Snack Bites

Om nom nom. I may actually go cook something now. Austin Burgers & Coco Cocoa Bars, here’s looking at you!

No matter what you do or where you go this weekend… have fun stay safe and don’t forget your SPF!

Cheers!