Not just for cowboys, packaged dried beef makes a wonderful starter for this dip, with smoky adobo chiles, toasted pecans, and melted Monterey Jack cheese.
A perennial party favorite, cocktail sausages become extra special with a jerk-seasoned pineapple glaze. Make them as hot (or not) as you like with bottled hot pepper sauce.
The cucumber releases some liquid while chilling, so serve relish with a slotted spoon. Shape the patties, and wrap them in wax paper to transport them from the kitchen to the patio grill. Serve with baked potato chips and dill pickle spears.
This salad is dressed with a lime vinaigrette and has lots of crunch and flavor with a little jalapeno pepper pop. Use summer fresh ingredients from the garden or farmer's market.