Memorial Day Menu: 3 Recipes for Southwestern BBQ

Memorial Day is the time that we remember those who lost their lives fighting for our country. Flags, flowers and trinkets are placed on the graves of loved ones in remembrance. It is a tradition to fly the flag at half mast until noon to honor the fallen. But Memorial Day is also viewed as the beginning of summer, and is celebrated with BBQ's and family gatherings. I tend to favor the southwestern style of cooking, being a fan of spicy and flavorful food. Here I have assembled a menu with a southwest flair that is sure to please, and is rather easy to prepare leaving you time to socialize with friends and loved ones.

SOUTHWEST BURGERS

1 1/2 lb. ground beef
1 1/2 cup salsa, drained
4 oz. Sharp Cheddar Cheese sliced into small pieces
1/2 cup jalapeno's, chopped (Optional)
Guacamole & Sour Cream (Optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine ground beef, salsa and salt and pepper. Shape into 12 thin patties. Evenly distribute cheese (and jalapeno's, if desired) onto 6 of the patties. Top each with patty and press together to form 6 large patties. Place in refrigerator (or cooler) for about 45 minutes. You can take this time to preheat the grill. Grill each patty for about 8-10 minutes on each side. Top each patty with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole. Serve on toasted buns.

Serves 6

GRILLED CORN

12 ears of yellow corn
1 tablespoon of butter per ear
Aluminum foil or foil packets

Begin by soaking the corn (Husks and all) in a tub of water for about an hour. Spread open the husk just enough to put a table spoon of butter in each ear, close the husks. Place each husk on a piece of foil (or into a foil packet) and wrap, making sure to crimp the ends closed. Place on hot grill for about half an hour, turning once about halfway through. Serve in foil packs. CAUTION: WILL BE HOT!

Serves 6

SALSA & TORTILLA CHIPS

3 large tomatoes
1 medium red onion
1 clove garlic, peeled and chopped finely
1/2 cup diced jalapeno's
1 tsp. Cumin
1 tsp. Chili Powder
1 tsp. Cilantro
1/2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
1 lime
Tortilla Chips (As much as you think you will need)
Salt and pepper to taste

I like my salsa thick, so I roughly chop the tomatoes. Dice the onion. Mix all ingredients, add salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze lime into mixture. Store covered in refrigerator overnight to let the flavors meld. Serve with chips.

I hope everyone enjoys this menu. Have a safe and happy Memorial Day!