S’more Brownies

Nothing says summer quite like a barbecue. While the grill might be the main attraction, it's deliciously simple to put a personal spin on classic summer dishes and desserts.

From same-old salads to inspired surprises

There are a number of quick and easy ways to add your signature touch to the standard summer barbecue fare. First, trade in the predictable potato salad for a refreshing pasta sensation. Build a delicious, personalized creation your family will enjoy with easy mixes.

"Each pasta salad mix comes with pasta, special seasoning and vegetables — only oil or mayonnaise needs to be added," said Karen Schiemo of the Betty Crocker Kitchens. "Throw in a little culinary creativity and your favorite ingredients, such as additional fresh vegetables or diced meat, and you can even create your own recipe that's sure to be in high-demand for seconds."

Sweet summer barbecue endings

Deliver a sweet ending to the perfect barbecue. With a few ingredients, such as sprinkles, marshmallows and nuts, you can add your own twist to brownies and transform them into a customized confection. Not only are they easy to make ahead of time, but a pan of brownies is easy to carry to the festive affair, requiring only one dish from baking to the barbecue. With no utensils necessary, they score huge brownie points with adults and children alike.

Between the perfect main course and delectable side dishes, barbecues will surely be a family favorite.

Start to finish: 1 hour 25 minutes1 box supreme brownie mixWater, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box3 cups miniature marshmallows4 graham crackers, broken into small pieces2 bars (1.55 ounces each) milk chocolate candy, broken into 1-inch squaresHeat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom only of 13 x 9-inch pan with cooking spray or shortening. Make and bake brownies as directed on box for 13 x 9-inch pan, using water, oil and eggs.Set oven to broil. Immediately sprinkle marshmallows and graham crackers over warm brownies. Broil about 4 to 5 inches from heat 30 to 60 seconds or until marshmallows are golden brown. (Watch carefully — marshmallows and graham crackers will brown quickly.) Sprinkle with chocolate candy. To serve warm, cool about 30 minutes. For brownies, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows. Makes 24 brownies.

Start to finish: 30 minutes1 box Caesar pasta salad mix1/3 cup cold water3 tablespoons vegetable oil4 cups torn romaine lettuce2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped (1 ½ cups)1 small cucumber, coarsely chopped (1 cup)½ cup thinly sliced red onion, slices cut in half4 ounces crumbled feta cheese (1 cup)1 can (2¼ ounces) sliced ripe olives, drainedCook and drain pasta as directed on box. Meanwhile, in large bowl, stir together seasoning mix, cold water and oil.Add drained pasta and remaining ingredients to seasoning mixture. Toss with croutons and Parmesan topping (from salad mix). Serve immediately or refrigerate. Makes 12 1-cup servings.

Start to finish: 30 minutes1 box Caesar pasta salad mix1/3 cup cold water3 tablespoons vegetable oil4 cups torn romaine lettuce2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped (1½ cups)1 small cucumber, coarsely chopped (1 cup)½ cup thinly sliced red onion, slices cut in half4 ounces crumbled feta cheese (1 cup)1 can (2¼ ounces) sliced ripe olives, drainedCook and drain pasta as directed on box. Meanwhile, in large bowl, stir together seasoning mix, cold water and oil.Add drained pasta and remaining ingredients to seasoning mixture. Toss with croutons and Parmesan topping (from salad mix). Serve immediately or refrigerate. Makes 12 1-cup servings