Memorial Day is almost here. This weekend is considered the unofficial start of summer although the meteorological season doesn’t begin until June 21. I live in Ohio and we’ve had fantastic weather this spring! Who doesn’t love sunny days? 

At the grocery store last week I noticed a lot of hot-weather foods appearing on the shelves. I got to thinking, just for fun, if you got to pick 4 of your favorite summer foods or drinks to celebrate the first day of the season, what would be on your list?  Maybe, just maybe, I’ll turn my choices into reality if calories and quantity are not included…

  1. Lunch or dinner would definitely be BBQ! I love charred grilled chicken or ribs smothered in sauce. My mom’s chicken and sauce recipe that I posted back on July 8 is so tasty. Be sure to check it out!
  1. Grape Kool-Aid. That’s right. Grape Kool-Aid. It was a staple growing up and it’s still so good! A purple powdered pack mixed with a cup of sugar sounds refreshing to quench your thirst on the first day of summer. Pour some in my Yeti with lots of ice and I’m transported back to my childhood home. (In full transparency, my mom actually bought Kool-Aid’s rival, Funny Face Drink Mix. Remember Goofy Grape?
  1. Nothing tastes like summer like fresh corn on the cob!  I frequently shop at farm markets and eat a piece most days for lunch in the summer. Lots of butter and salt are mandatory.
  1. I’ve saved my #1 pick for last…S’mores. I could eat a toasted marshmallow every day. 365 of them. Everything about roasted marshmallows, melty chocolate, and graham crackers makes me happy. It’s not only the taste but the smell of the crackling fire and the toasty mallow wafting in the air. The whole experience is part of the package.

Summer not only has a feel, but a taste. Starting this weekend, I’m anticipating 3 months of seasonal food that always tastes better eaten in the sunshine! Enjoy the long weekend!

Please proudly display the American Flag this weekend at your home. Take time to reflect on those who served and died while defending our great country. They are heroes.