Whether you're heading to your alma mater for a fall football game and tailgate meal, or to enjoy a picnic by the lake, this month's menu of make-ahead dishes is sure to be a hit.

Offer your guests some delicious marinated olive and cheese bites, which are best if made several days before serving. They're best served at room temperature, so no cooler space is required.

While your guests nibble, heat up the grill and flavor the air with the enticing aroma of Citrus-Brined Pork Tenderloin, then slice and serve on Curried Pumpkin Rolls spread with store-bought apple chutney and slices of blue cheese. Gingered Summer Squash Slaw is a great way to highlight the last of summer's produce, and is refreshingly light and tangy. For dessert, Jane's Oatmeal Cake is a down-to-earth hearty, homey treat.

Recipes:

	White Bean Hummus Hummus, the chickpea spread flavored with garlic, lemon juice and tahini, used to be an exotic treat, but today it’s everywhere. From your corner supermarket, to the food court at the mall, Americans are enjoying this delicious spread that’s served all over the Mediterranean and Middle East.
	Cider-Brined Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches Apples and pork are a perennial flavor combination that is especially pleasing in the fall. Here, lean pork tenderloins receive a moisture and flavor boost when soaked overnight in an apple cider brine that is flavored with maple syrup, black pepper and fresh sage.
	Curried Pumpkin Rolls Nothing says "autumn" like the warm orange color of pumpkin. And while pumpkin is most often enjoyed in desserts, this moist member of the squash family adds color and flavor in this recipe for Curried Pumpkin Rolls.
	Gingered Summer Squash Slaw Crisp slaws are the perfect picnic take-along, but most are heavily loaded down with creamy dressings. My flavorful Gingered Summer Squash Slaw is a lighter choice that’s flavored with lots of ginger and a hint of mint.
	Jane's Oatmeal Cake I usually serve Jane's Oatmeal Cake for an evening dessert, but it is sturdy enough to pack for a picnic or wrap as lunch-box treats.