Yesterday, we had my brother-in-law, his girlfriend and their five-year-old son, Sebastian over to grill out and spend some time together. It was so perfect outside that we spent all of our time sitting out on the deck and just enjoying ourselves. We had so much fun, in fact, that I completely spaced on taking pictures...oops. I promise, though, today's recipe is really yummy - and you'll want to try it!
I have to say, I normally go over the top and make all kinds of yummy stuff whenever we have people coming over...but I've been SO busy with the book lately that I just haven't had time :( Sad, but true. Still, we had plenty of food and going with some cookout staples was a simple and great way to go. I made pasta salad and baked beans, bought a fruit and cheese tray and some mini cupcakes (with red, white and blue frosting, of course). Our guests brought over a veggie tray to complete our spread and it was just the right amount of food.
So what was the main dish? Well, we went with hamburgers (okay, we added American cheese, so technically cheeseburgers), using the recipe below for a little extra "zing." Need a great burger recipe for your Memorial Day cookout? Look no further - it's right here. As a note...this is not MY recipe...it's one that I've seen in so many different cookbooks/websites that you may have even seen it before. The source that I will provide is a cookbook titled Quick Fixes from Brand Name Mixes. I took the "Lipton Onion Burgers" recipe and adjusted it slightly to my tastes, subbing and doubling the ranch mix for the onion soup mix. This recipe will make eight 1/4 lb burgers or six 1/3 lb burgers.
Ranch Burgers
2 lbs ground beef
2 (1 oz) packets dry Ranch dressing mix
1/2 cup water
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and form into patties. Grill for 5 minutes on each side or until done.
We made sure to have a variety of toppings for everyone, including lettuce, tomato, onion, chopped jalapenos, sliced avocado, ketchup, mustard and a homemade spicy mayo (it's really easy - 1/2 cup mayo, 2 tbs hot sauce (like Texas Pete) and 1 finely grated garlic clove, mixed together). At the end of the day, we were all stuffed but happy! It was a great afternoon.
While you're hanging out/grilling out this weekend, take time to remember and celebrate those who fight for our country, no matter where they are in the world. Our freedom isn't free, and we have so many men and women to thank for protecting it!
Until next time...
Cheers!
