Patriotic Recipes for Memorial Day

Start with sugar cookie dough (refrigerated in roll), spread it out into a circle and back according to directions of package. When the cookie has cooled, put on a topping consisting of cream cheese (8 oz), and approximately a half of a pack of powdered sugar. Then add strawberries and blueberries in any type of "design" you wish. My favorite is put in rows of three and alternate.

Red, White, and Blue Salsa and Chips

This one is really simple. All you need are fresh tomatoes diced (as many as you want or need for the amount of guests you will be serving), onions, jalapeño peppers (for more heat add the seeds; for less heat remove the seeds), and cilantro (optional) salt to taste (optional). Simply mix the ingredients and serve. This is best served after it has been in the refrigerator for approximately 15 minutes. Do not, however, make it the night before because it will get too juicy. Serve with blue corn, red corn, and white corn tortilla chips.

Red, White, and Blue Fruit Cups

Simple and delicious...add strawberries to the bottom of a pretty glass, add cool whip, and then add blueberries. Continue to layer until you reach the top of the glass. Top off with cool whip and a strawberry "fan". For the strawberry fan just find a large strawberry and slice it length wise into approximately four slices. However, do not slice all the way through. Then simply spread the slices out and place on top of the cool whip. Make sure to leave the green cap on the strawberries.

Red, White, and Blue Potato Salad

Take red skinned potatoes and blue skinned potatoes (you may have to really shop for these, the best thing is to call your local stores to see if they have them or try a farmers market) and boil. Leave them with a little "bite" to them. Let them cool and add mayonnaise, hard boiled eggs (chopped), onions or green onions, and a little vinegar (optional). Stir gently as not to make the potatoes mushy. Some people also like to add crumbled bacon to this, but that is up to you.

I hope you enjoy these recipes. Have a wonderful Memorial Day!