Kick off summer with these 5 breezy make-ahead salads

It may be spring, but summer — and all its abundance — is on the horizon, ready to encourage breezy communal dining under the glow of the sun and the grill. No gathering of the season is complete without bounteous produce, which can be quickly and easily turned into crowd-pleasing sides.

These summer dishes, all ready in less than an hour, pair wonderfully with beloved classic cookout foods, whether burgers or hot dogs, grilled chicken or seafood. Best of all, they get better as they sit and their flavors seep into one another and meld together — so you can take them to the potluck (or party or picnic) and they’ll only taste better as the hours pass.

Do all of the chopping and cooking earlier in the day, or even the night before, then toss again or assemble right before serving. So start tucking these recipes away: Summer awaits.

Recipe: Chive Pesto Potato Salad

By Kay Chun

This vibrant homemade pesto is made with fresh chives and parsley...