New England residents and visitors alike take to the outside for just about every thing once the few precious weeks of summer decent. During the hot hazy humid days of summer, keep the oven off and GRILL IT.

Charcoal, gas, or even wood can give foods a great flavor all there own. New England Clam Bakes are best done outside so that the smell is less pungent and the steam evaporated more quickly. Burgers and steaks can make you mouth water with anticipation; marinate sauces can add to less expensive cuts of meat. Just grill corn on the cobs (soak for at least one hour in husks with corn silk removed, them place on grill in husks to steam) or slice and lightly coat zucchini, summer squash or eggplant with olive oil, place on grill until tender turning frequently. Fish on the grill is fabulous, but use tinfoil or a grill pan with very small holes. Flaky fish like haddock and sole handle much easier this way. A hint for chicken and ribs, parboil for 10 mins the night before (if possible) then marinate overnight. They are now less likely to burn when grilling, and have a better flavor from the marinate. Remember to raise up the rack or turn down the gas, grilling should be done on lower heat for a longer period of time and therefore less burning.

Summer cooking for salads can often be done at night. A touch of mayo or oil dressings can keep macaroni from sticking. Potatoes actually taste great if you throw in onions and celery when they are still warm. They absorb the flavors better. Vegetables can also be cut up and marinated the day before a gathering giving them more flavor.

Ice Cream Cakes are a great way to top off any outing. Take a pound cake or angel food cake, cut in half, hollow out a hole in each side, and fill both top and bottom with sherbet, ice cream, or frozen yogurt. Place back in freezer for 20 mins. Remove, place two pieces back together and wrap securely until ready to serve. Any Sundae Sauce or fresh fruit and whipped cream are perfect. It can just be simple. A hint, place cooler ice packs all around this cake and it will also help keep the cooler cold.

For more suggestions, and ideas visit www.newenglandrecipes.com.