Summer Cuisine

            During the hot days of summer, we all look for easy, quick ways to prepare our meals. Perhaps some of these books can help you.

            Endless Summer Cookbook, is written by Katie Lee, a cookbook and food magazine author and television personality. Influenced by her summer cooking experiences in the Hamptons, Lee presents one hundred recipes based on the season’s produce and other fresh ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes, drinks, and desserts. Beautiful color photos accompany the text.

            Master of the Grill: Foolproof Recipes, Top-Rated Gadgets, Gear and Ingredients Plus Clever Test Kitchen Tips and Fascinating Food Science is a publication from America’s Test Kitchen. The book includes step-by-step instructions for all of the grilling techniques you need to know, accompanied by many photos, as well as almost 700 recipes featuring beef, chicken, pork, poultry, vegetables, and more. Consumer advice on the purchase of grills and grilling tools also are provided.

            Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling is written by Meathead Goldwyn, the author of online barbecuing site amazingribs.com and also writes articles for a variety of magazines and newspapers. Learn about the concepts, methods, equipment, and accessories required for the best barbecuing and grilling, as well as 118 recipes to prepare meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, pizzas, marinades, and sauces.

            The Art of Making Gelato: 50 Flavors to Make at Home is written by Morgan Morano, a professional chef and gelato expert. She presents 50 recipes for gelato and sorbetto. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it is churned more slowly and at a warmer temperature than ice cream, giving it a denser texture. Sorbets are dairy-free and egg-free, made from whole fruit and a simple syrup. Flavors range from the traditional chocolate and strawberry to the unusual—Torta della Mimosa, Biscoff, avocado, and more.

Design Your Outdoor Space

            Design and decorate the outdoor area of your home. You’re sure to benefit from your efforts year-round, but especially during the summer. Here are some books to help you get started.

            Building Outdoor Kitchens for Every Budget is written by Steve Cory, a builder, remodeler, and author. Whether you do it yourself or hire a pro, you will learn to plan and execute your project. See how to select the best materials for a tight budget, and install such items as counters and appliances. Options such as pizza ovens, fire pits and fireplaces, pergolas, mosquito abatement, and more also are included. In-depth instructions and more than 300 photos are provided.

            Stanley Decks: A Homeowner’s Guide is written by David Toht. Building a deck requires basic carpentry skills, the right tools, and investment of time in designing and planning your project. This book gives step-by-step instructions to building four types of decks: patio deck, first- story deck, raised deck, and multi-feature deck. Learn the basics such as installing footings and ledgers, framing, building stairs and rails, then continue with built-ins such as benches, planters, and more. Information also is given on deck maintenance and repair.

            Taunton’s All New Backyard Idea Book is written by Sandra S. Soria. She shows you how to plan your outdoor space for a variety of activities, from children’s play to reading and relaxing to dining and entertaining. Soria starts with the basic structures of patios, decks, and porches, and continues with pergolas, arbors, and sheds; adding such landscaping features as beds and borders. Advice on furniture, lighting, fabrics, and accessories also are provided. Includes more than 275 photos.