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Summer is here, if not officially on the calendar, definitely in spirit, as we celebrate this Memorial Day weekend here in the U.S. It's a weekend to break out the flip flops, swimsuits and sunscreen; but more importantly, to cherish the real reason for this holiday: honoring and thanking the brave and dedicated members of our armed forces who have courageously and selflessly served our country. Each passing year makes me more aware of what incredible gifts they've given and blessed us with; freedom and safety. Small words with huge significance for our daily lives. And since it's also a day to celebrate the arrival of the new season, we're sharing a few of our favorite summer recipes to help you get ready for all the picnics, potlucks and parties on the horizon. Welcome to lazy summer days and Happy Memorial Day!
Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Skewers. Serves as a salad or appetizer. It just seems to scream - SUMMER!
Lemon Thyme Brioche Dinner Rolls. A delightful, fresh taste of summer peeking out of your bread basket!
Lemon, Thyme, Rosemary Foccacia. Make the most delicious sandwiches for summer picnics, parties and potlucks.
Israeli Couscous and Orzo Salad - Don't plan to bring any of this back home. Everyone goes crazy over it!
Grilled Vietnamese Bahn Mi - Vietnamese Bahn Mi - a wonderful alternative to hamburgers. Bursting with fresh, delicious flavor!
Green-on-Green Couscous Salad - Be sure to keep this one in your culinary back pocket. When they ask you to bring the salad, pull out this fabulously, healthy salad. Expect lots of oohs, aahs and rave reviews!
Chilled Berries with White Chocolate Sauce. And for dessert, well, this just might be the easiest and most delicious recipe EVER! From a legendary London restaurant.
John@Kitchen Riffs says
Memorial Day always means summer for us. And Labor Day means fall. Who cares what the calendar says! 😉 Great roundup of delish stuff. Perfect throughout the summer. Thanks.
Kim - Liv Life says
Oh, Chris... what fabulous recipes!! That green on green couscous salad?? Oh, yes... I'm totally all over that one!!! LOVE!
And your graphic on the top is beautifully touching. As a veteran family, Memorial Day is an important day for us and for our country. Your photo is beautiful and your sentiments so true.
On another note... are you coming to San Diego or just California?? If San Diego or LA area, perhaps we might be able to do a quick meet up??!!
Sandra says
I hope your day was as warm and delicious as mine!
cheri says
Hi Chris, great recipe line-up, all look just wonderful. I know that if I follow one of your recipes they always turn out beautifully.
Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl says
Those dinner rolls look marvelous! I'm always seeking new roll recipes so I can't wait to try these! Hope you had a great weekend!
Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl says
Those dinner rolls look marvelous! I'm always seeking new roll recipes so I can't wait to try these! Hope you had a great weekend!
Tricia @ Saving room for dessert says
Gosh Chris - this is a beautiful list of summer recipes. The berries, fresh herbs, that Bahn Mi burger - on my! Hope you have a terrific week!
Liz says
I love, love everything you make, Chris. Your summer recipe round up has me pinning away. And thanks for the reminder of what the Memorial Day holiday is really about.
Ginny Hartzler says
Wow, the first three looks the best to me...the rolls and foccaia. I hope you have a fun and restful holiday weekend!
Maureen | Orgasmic Chef says
I want some of everything on that list. What a great way to celebrate Memorial Day.
Denise Browning@From Brazil To You says
May the Lord bless all the heroes and their families who sacrificed so much for we would have freedom and protection. I say this as an American citizen by law. I am grateful for all they have done so far!.
These are a great list of summer faves, Chris! All look very appetizing!
Happier Than A Pig In Mud says
Your photo montage ripped my heart out, but that's what this day is about. I have to make some focaccia before it gets too hot for the oven! Happy Memorial Day Chris:@)
Claire @ Claire K Creations says
Oh Chris way too much deliciousness in one post! I'm always so jealous when you're heading into summer.
Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Peppers says
Oh Chris, everything looks just amazing! I'm going to come to your house to eat! 🙂 Happy Memorial Day my Friend!
Debra says
Lovely and delicious looking food. I had already pinned some of these and the others I just pinned now. Happy Memorial Day, Chris.
Angie (@angiesrecipess) says
A beautiful selection of summer recipes, Chris. Those tomato mozzarella skewers look terrific!