Memorial Day BBQ

This Memorial Day I felt the need to get into the spirit and have a BBQ, complete with patriotic decorations.  I have only once properly celebrated the holiday, visiting the cemetery three years ago where my Italian relatives are, some of whom fought in wars.  While this year I am just staying home, I thank all those who have served or are currently serving our country for their immeasurable sacrifice and honor.

I made my favorite family burger recipe, mixing by hand ground onions and Italian-style breadcrumbs in the hamburger meat.  We grilled them on the broiler, since it was unfortunately too chilly to barbeque outside.  Right before they were finished I topped the patties with thinly sliced Beecher's cheddar cheese, a local specialty, made famous on Oprah's Favorite Things.  We toasted potato buns and then slathered them with toppings and sauces of our liking.  My choice?  "Pink sauce"- simply mayonnaise and ketchup mixed together.  There was also fresh corn on the cob, homemade rosemary-roasted potato fries, and salmon burgers for S.  I put out small blue bowls filled with potato chips, and added a red napkin as a runner, topping it with blue candle holders and a patriotic star, just purchased today.  

{Table spread}

We kept dessert simple, serving up bowls of strawberries and cream.

{Dessert- American flag colors}