Topic: Barbecuing and Grilling

10 great summer cars

Wind in your hair, sun in your face – the summer drive is as classic a pastime as barbecues and baseball.  For dedicated sun-seekers, the right machine can make all the difference, and since most of us can’t afford the demi-convertible Maybach Landaulet limousine, here are 10 fun-loving new models sure to keep a summer smile on your face.  Climb into one of these this season, and you’ll be happy to keep driving duties for yourself.

Creamless corn chowder

A lighter version of a seasonal classic.

Zucchini eggplant napoleons

The term napoleon means anything, sweet or savory, that is layered. Grilled summer vegetables make a wonderful napoleon when paired with fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella.

Ratatouille: three simple summer recipes

Oven-roasted ratatouille creates a savory vegetables base that can enhance other dishes.

Meatless Monday: grilled peanut butter and jam sandwiches

Homemade strawberry jalapeño jam adds a grown-up kick to the classic pb&j and dill gives grilled vegetables a fresh, summery finish in this satisfying vegan grilled meal.

Pizza on the grill, Greek-style

You don't need an outdoor pizza oven to enjoy cooking pizza outdoors.

Four ways to survive heat wave – and keep energy bills down

As America blasts its ACs and put its fans on overdrive to try to cope with the heat wave, it will use a lot of energy – which costs a lot of money. More than 40 percent of a typical home’s utility bill goes toward cooling costs.

Here are four tips for keeping energy costs down and still staying cool.

Three ways to grill steaks

Loin flap steaks, flat steaks, and top sirloin are less expensive cuts that deliver delicious flavors.

Grilled chicken salad

A healthy salad satisfying enough for a weeknight supper or a fun backyard gathering.

Time to pitch your tent ... in New York City? US touts urban camping plan.

US plan to create 'great urban parks' set to begin in New York City, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said Monday. It's part of Obama's bid to reconnect young people with the great outdoors.

Meatless Monday: Roasted asparagus with mint

Roasted asparagus tastes just as good hot as it does at room temperature.

Grilled honey garlic baby lamb chops

Honey caramelized on the grill sweetens meat in a delicious way.

Memorial Day: Grilling season begins

Memorial Day may mean hot dogs and burgers, but it can also mean aioli condiments, quinoa salad, and rhubarb spritzer.

15 recipes for Memorial Day

Memorial Day marks the start of America's season of eating outdoors. Typically, that means food that is either grilled or packed into portable containers and served cold. From the Monitor's archives, here is a list of 15 recipes – some exotic, some traditional, and all delectable – to help you prepare for your next picnic, barbecue, or day at the beach.

May is National Hamburger Month

Hamburgers, hamburgers, hamburgers!

Grilled pork roast with mustard and fresh herbs

Marinating boneless pork shoulder with Dijon mustard, garlic and a fresh herb mix adds extra depth to the smoky flavor of this grilled roast.

Vancouver opening ceremonies: Luge athlete Mark Grimmette to carry US flag

One of a handful of five-time AmericanOlympians, Mark Grimmette was chosen by his peers to carry the flag in the Vancouver Olympics opening ceremonies.

A Child’s Guide to the Night

A poem.

Do you really have to BBQ with gas grills to be 'green'?

Barbecue, North Carolina style

Different regional flavors inspire lifelong devotees.