Dear Friends,

Summertime is an especially fun time for cooking and entertaining. For in summer it's a special pleasure to get out-of-doors and to prepare dishes for family and friends that we aren't as likely to fix during the chilly days of fall and winter.

Many of the recipes in this book are devoted to types of cooking and dining most of us prefer to do when the weather is warm and inviting. I have included a number of delicious barbecue and homemade ice cream recipes. There are certainly few things more mouth-watering and fun to make than your own ice cream!

Because summer is such a wonderful time for entertaining and taking advantage of the extra daylight hours, I have included a selection of picnic, buffet, and patio party menus. Some of these menus feature recipes that will accommodate up to twelve and sixteen people.

And last but not least, there are recipes for those of you who prefer to spend a minimum of time over a hot stove during the summer months. These recipes consist primarily of light, whole-meal salads that are tasty, nutritious, and easy to prepare.

I hope these recipes will bring you much dining pleasure and will add to the enjoyment of cooking for family and friends during those delightful summer days.

Sincerely,

Miriam B. Loo