4th of July
Grilling on the mind...
Every holiday is associated with some sort of "food" for me and my family. With 4th of July around the corner, all I can think about is delicious picnic/grill-out food. Ah, glorious summertime. Nothing beats burgers on the grill, corn on the cob, and a cold beer in the hand while playing corn hole. Much better than playing corn hole in the snow (not that we're above that...)
But alas, sumer time is here, and it is already flying by. Better make the most of it!
In preparing tomorrow's menu for the neighborhood grill out, I just tried to avoid hot dishes, and anything that would require an oven on. Here it is, the perfect grill out menu:
Burgers, Brats, and Dogs
Corn on the Cob
Watermelon
Strawberries and Cream Dessert
Burgers, Brats, and Dogs are the standard. But the way you cook them and the seasoning makes all the difference. For the burgers, I try to keep them to no larger than 1/3 of a pound, and I start with them pretty thin and flat. Just remember that as they cook, they shrink quite a bit! I typically add a little bit of Worchestershire, garlic salt, and pepper to the burgers before making the patties. If I'm feeling adventurous (and think I can hide it from my husband), I'll add some diced onion and/or garlic to them as well. And I ALWAYS recommend grilling the buns slightly. It makes a world of difference! For the brats, I simmer them slowly in beer and onions for at least half an hour before grilling them. YUM.
Corn on the Cob is always a great summer treat. I typically cook corn one of two ways: stovetop, or on the grill. For tomorrow, like I said, there is no way I want the stove on...so grilling it is. Soak the full cobs in water for at least an hour or so before grilling. This prevents the husk from starting on fire. Turn them occasionally, and cook for 20-30 minutes.
I wanted a nice cold, crisp salad as well. I ended up selecting the Broccoli Slaw because I think it will hold up well to the heat tomorrow. Its perfect for a hot day.
Watermelon is a little boring, but my husband loves it and he got his way. I won't be doing this tomorrow since there will be kids around, but I would recommend trying vodka soaked watermelon if you want to spice it up. To do this, the day before eating, cut a hole in the top of the watermelon. Pour a full bottle of vodka into the hole, and let it sit over night. When you are ready to serve, cut it the same way you would a normal watermelon. Very subtle, and very good!
And lastly, one of my favorite desserts. I rarely get to make the Strawberries and Cream because it makes SO much. But it is just awesome. I can wait to get some pictures of it up! Strawberry Shortcake is one of my favorite treats, and this is like strawberry shortcake, with custard, all mixed up in a bowl.
My mouth is watering...I think I need to go...
Everyone have a safe and happy 4th of July. I'll be eating well, hanging out on my patio, having a fire...life is good!!!
