Secrets to Perfect Summer Cuisine

From picnics to barbecues, summer meals are seriously fun! But preparing the food for these gatherings can, at times, be overwhelming and frustrating when fare does not turn out as planned.

For insights and tips that make preparing summer food a breeze, we spoke with Jennifer Manning, associate manager of Kraft Kitchen, who develops recipes for the company and works with Kraft's new Fresh Take products like Smokey Mesquite BBQ cheese and breadcrumb mix, which bursts with summer flavor. From the best ingredients to use when grilling to what you should never do to a burger, Manning spilled her best secrets on foolproof grilling tactics and achieving picnic perfection.

Check out the slideshow above to learn what you can make on a grill besides hamburgers and hot dogs and how long to let meat marinate before putting it on the grill.

Also, check out How to Make Fruit Salsa to learn how to craft a fresh and delicious addition to any barbecue!