Simple Suggestions Add More to an Independence Day Cookout

The two things that make July fourth special: an annual five-kilometer run and plenty of food!

I run several races a year and especially enjoy doing the runs on holidays. My wife understands my need to always do a run on holidays and while she does not like it, she does not do anything to stop me. She even knows that my promise that it will only "be an hour" means that I will be gone all morning.

According to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, Independence Day, seventy-one percent of grill owners will opt to cook outside. Hot dogs and burgers on the grill are very popular and it is recommended that the host add to this with unique and different food items such as grilled vegetables, and other appetizers.

The race should be over in about twenty-two to twenty five minutes and then I will be get back to the house and change into my grilling clothes. For many children, playing dress-up is fun, whether it is a super hero, a Disney princess or even to be like mommy and daddy. When grilling, I add to the Fourth of July cookout by wearing chef clothes. A pair of chef pants, and a hat will add some fun to an American flag t-shirt and can be purchased at most uniform stores or on-line.

This summer, I am growing an assortment of hot peppers, tomatoes and there are planters of fresh cilantro, mint and basil in my garden. Most of the recipes below incorporate the produce from my garden; however these ingredients are available at most grocery stores or markets.

For the past several weeks, the herbs have been used to add flavor to salads and marinades. By taking a few leaves at a time, the fresh herbs are used and the plant can continue to mature. This salsa is easy to make and uses the tomatillos, peppers and cilantro from the garden

Spicy Pineapple Salsa

1 cup sweet and sour sauce

½ cup pineapple, diced

¼ cup red onion diced

¼ cup tomatillo, diced

1 hot pepper, finely chopped

2 green onions, finely chopped

1 tsp cilantro, finely chopped

Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl. Chill overnight and serve with chips