Our Best Ideas for a Summer Potluck
Potluck meals should check a few boxes. First, they should be easy to carry from your kitchen to wherever the party is being held. Next, they should easily serve a crowd without too much hassle. Bonus points if they’re easy to eat while standing up and mingling with guests, so things like skewers or sliders that can be eaten with one hand don’t require too much cutting or slicing are even better.
If you’re preparing for a summer potluck party, focus on seasonal fruits and vegetables that will offer peak flavor with little manipulation. Things like zucchini, tomato, corn and peaches are all fantastic ingredients that don’t require a ton of prep to make them taste delicious. The best thing about summer potluck recipes is that they can — and should — be enjoyed alfresco with a big group of friends.
This zesty pasta salad is perfect for picnics, cookouts or anytime you need a side that doubles as a vegetarian main. Inspired by the Mexican street-food favorite esquites, it combines pan-roasted corn kernels (though you could always grill yours instead) dressed with mayonnaise and sprinkled with Cotija cheese and lime juice. A bit of added sour cream makes a creamy dressing that’s just slightly tangy, too.