Memorial Day is in one week? That can’t possibly be true.

The past few months…scratch that. The past year has whizzed by for me. I can hardly believe that here we are again, looking up from our flip-flopped feet and seeing summer just around the corner. Call it cliche, but time really does fly. Just last week, my nephew—the little baby I feel like I just met—turned one year old. To see how much he’s grown and changed in the past 12 months is truly astounding!

With the kick-off of a new season coming so soon, I thought I’d dig out my top 10 all-time favorite recipes (in no particular order…) that are perfect for Memorial Day, picnics and potlucks, or any summer occasion really. As much as I’d like the season to slip by at a snail’s pace, giving me plenty of opportunity to savor every second slowly and leisurely, I’m not counting on it.

Summers, like it or not, melt away into the pages of our scrapbooks far too quickly. But still, I plan on enjoying each precious, sun-drenched moment as much as I can. And, of course, that means eating plenty of good food along the way.

What’s more patriotic than a star spangled veggie-packed salad? Get my (super easy) recipe over at The Balanced Platter!

This Sugar-Free Watermelon Lemonade is guaranteed to quench your thirst on a hot summer’s day. And the pretty pink color can’t be beat.

I love simple recipes in the summer that are easy to throw together and keep me out of a hot kitchen. This Carrot Raisin Salad with Lemon & Garlic is just the ticket.

Have a hankering for an ice-cream-truck-style frozen treat? Make your own Chocolate Banana Ice Cream Pops!

I could eat kale salad every day of the year, but especially in the warmer months. This Shredded Balsamic Beet & Kale Salad is quite possibly my favorite one ever. (So far, that is…)

Keep these Peanut Butter Freezer Treats stashed for a quick nibble that won’t heat up the kitchen. Kids and adults alike will love them.

Nourishing and eye-catching, Pesto Chicken Collard Rolls make a great light meal. Pair them with a juicy fruit salad on the side and POOF! Dinner.

This Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie is the ultimate thirst-quencher. Try it with blueberries, raspberries, cherries, or peaches, too.

A great potluck addition, this Southwest Pasta Salad with Black Beans & Avocado really couldn’t be prettier. It’s also super healthy and mayo-free.

Last but not least, summer just wouldn’t be the same without some Raspberry Brownie Bites. Make up a bunch—some with raspberries, some with blueberries, and some with frosting only—and display them in the shape of an American flag for one adorable, festive dessert.