Photo Gallery: 8 patio-party recipes

Elisa Bosley, Delicious Living

May 1, 2012

Crostini with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Feta Cheese

A colorful and easy appetizer. Make the pesto a day or two ahead of time; it keeps well in the refrigerator. Serve with chilled grapes. Get the recipe.
Gazpacho with Garnishes

Bring out a tray with gazpacho-filled shot glasses for a festive first course. Place the fresh condiments in small serving dishes on the table so guests can help themselves. Get the recipe.
Sparkling Lemonade

We love this refreshing spring-summer drink; it's also wonderful mixed with natural ginger ale, spiked with fresh ginger, or muddled with mint. Get the recipe.
Thai Salmon Burgers with Peanut Sauce

Wow guests with these seriously delicious burgers full of heart-healthy salmon and ginger. Bonus: The peanut sauce goes well on just about anything. Get the recipe.
Rhubarb Lemonade Spritzer

We predict this beautiful beverage will become your go-to party drink, especially if you're lucky enough to grow your own rhubarb and lemons. Get the recipe.
Grilled Ginger Pork with Nectarine Relish

Easy, low fat, incredibly delicious. If nectarines aren't yet available in your area, substitute chopped cantaloupe, honeydew, or mango. Get the recipe.
Creamy Lemon Squares

Savor these sweet-tart treats with cold mint tea or even a julep. Lower in fat than typical lemon squares, they're a bit more crumbly but just as tasty. Get the recipe.
Grilled Fruit Dessert Kabobs

You can use almost any fruit for this easy dessert; we love pineapple, cantaloupe, and peaches or nectarines. Mascarpone cheese is an indulgent garnish, but you could substitute light cream cheese. Get the recipe.

Hello May Day! Now's the time to throw a patio party to celebrate longer days and all that glorious, not-too-hot sunshine. Get started with these eight tasty bites and refreshing drinks.