Many of us are turning to salads this time of year, partly because they are usually quick to prepare and also because we may not feel like using the oven.

Do you love fresh blackberries? I sure do, and most of the time I never get as far as using them in recipes because I tend to eat them all up! My grandparents had a ranch and a big garden, and the blackberry vines that grew up against the old garage were the stars of the show.

Ah, summertime. So many things to do and so many places to go it can make you hungry.

With the weather bringing warmer days, many of us are hungry for a barbecued meal. This week, instead of focusing on the main dish, I thought we could explore some good side dishes to cook and serve. There are so many possibilities and I already have so many favorites that it's hard to break tradition and try something different. But maybe it's high time to give something new a chance to become an "old favorite" at our barbecues. Hope you see something you like!

Red tater salad

I recently attended a catered anniversary party at my mom's place in Gilroy, and while everything was delicious, I was especially attracted to the pasta salad.