And our editors' favorite summer recipes should give you some idea why.

Southern Living Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake ready to serve

Credit:Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Southern Living Sauteed Squash and Zucchini in a serving bowl

Credit:Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

Strawberry-Pretzel Jello Salad

Credit: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

Cucumber-and-Vidalia Onion Salad

Credit: Greg DuPree; Food Styling: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Christina Daley

Cakey Strawberry Cobbler in a casserole pan and bowl

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely, Food Stylist: Ana Kelly

summer sauce in a pitcher

Credit:Stacy K. Allen; Props: Julia Bayless; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash in the skillet to serve

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Top-Shelf Chicken Under a Brick

Credit: Hector Sanchez