Asparagus is the quintessential spring vegetable but is easy to find year-round. Balsamic mixed with chicken broth and cornstarch adds a sweet-and-sour flavor to this dish. Top with grilled, sliced chicken to make it a meal.

Try this elegant and low-fat party appetizer in place of the usual, calorie-rich fare you’ll find at most gatherings. Apples and onion can be made up to one day ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Everyone loves grilled cheese. This high protein version has less fat and a serving of veggies. Serve with a wedge of apple and you’ve got the four food groups.

Corn makes a sweet and satisfying soup. The potatoes help to thicken the broth without adding any fat. Top it off with low-fat cream cheese to give this soup it’s sinful texture that is so rich and thick, they won’t believe it’s not made with heavy cream. Use the flour for a thick heavy soup or skip it if you want a lighter texture.

Need your vitamin C? Look no further, between fresh tomatoes and red bell pepper you’re getting a huge helping of vitamin C with a this sweet and savory salad. Fresh goat cheese adds a note of creaminess without too much fat.

Shrimp add flavor and low-fat protein to this easy veggie side dish. It’s a fast way to use up the best a summer vegetable garden has to offer. Enjoy a slice of cornbread or toast some whole wheat pita to make it a main course for two.

Zucchini is such a tender vegetable, you can enjoy it without even having to turn on your stove. Eat it raw during the summer, when zucchini is at its peak. If you want to make this ahead of time, combine all the ingredients, but save the ricotta and fresh herbs to use right before you serve it.

My husband says that pork is the food of the gods and I think most men would agree! Last time I made pulled pork for my neighbor Claudio’s birthday party, we saw 30 pounds of pulled pork vanish in just under 2 hours. Watch your fingers ladies when you set this out for your next party.

The combo of heat and sweet says summer to me. Cantaloupe sweetens this perky salsa flavored with hot green chilies. If you’re not a fan of the heat, just omit or reduce the amount of chili.

Thanks to my friend Rob, who tends bar at Maxwell’s in Hoboken, you’ll be able to taste this unusual lip smacking combo. I added a pinch of chili for warmth and heat which breaks up the sweet punch of balsamic and mango. You rock Rob!!