Pineapple, black bean and habanero salsa is a hot and cool mix.

Denver Post / CYRUS MCCRIMMON

Summer is the time for three things: Pulling weeds, running through sprinklers and long languorous suppers in the fresh nighttime air.

Whether your picnic happens in the backyard or the park down the road, the key is keeping it simple.

Cook ahead, so you aren’t hooked to the stove. Serve things cool, so you don’t break a sweat.

And keep it healthy by punching up the flavor with spice instead of salt or fat.

For Summer Salsa, mix pineapple with black beans, scallions and a habanero pepper and serve in a mason jar. Chile Mango Spears feature the fruit spritzed with lime juice and dusted with chile powder. Chipotle-marinated Steak Skewers offer spicy pieces of flank or skirt steak. Strawberry Sandwiches are an easy dessert. Start with leftover cookies and freshen them up with local strawberries and lemon curd.