Memorial Day Dishes

It's Memorial Day - a day to remember those who've served our country and sacrificed their lives for it ... for us.

Many people will be marching in parades or planting flags or somehow commemorating the occasion, and they'll get hungry. So here are some recipes for you, or for those who are relishing the day off - and their freedom - at barbecues or picnics.

These dishes, from the sweet to the savory, will do honor to your festivities, whatever they may be.

Red, White, and Blueberry Sangria

Strawberry Shortcake

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Berries with Sweetened Sour Cream

Blueberry Pancakes

Blueberry Bread Pudding

Grilled Chicken with Spiced Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Blueberry Streusel Cake

Pomegranate-Marinated Chicken with Honey-Grilled Pineapple

Bacon Cheese Mix-In Burgers

Orange Pomegranate Iced Tea

It's Memorial Day - a time to honor those who have died in service to our country.  Traditionally, parades and events at historic sites take place, followed by picnics and barbecues.  Please don't forget the sacrifices that were made, which are being commemorated today, in the midst of planning for the food and fun later on.

A great drink to serve along with your holiday dishes is iced tea - a classic.  But why serve just plain ol' tea when you can spiff it up a bit?

Although I'm noted for my sweet tooth (teeth!), I have to say that I'm not a fan of the sweet tea that is so popular in the South.  It's just too, too much for me.  I'd rather plain tea, or sometimes I add just a spritz of juice from a lemon wedge.

So this citrusy tea - with hints of spice and a touch of tartness from the pomegranate molasses - will be perfect today and throughout the summer.  Make a pitcher of it, and enjoy!


Orange Pomegranate Iced Tea

4 Constant Comment tea bags
2 orange spice tea bags
12 cups boiling water
1/4 cup sugar
4 ounces pomegranate molasses (available at Middle Eastern markets)

Place the tea bags into a pitcher; pour boiling water into the pitcher and let the tea bags steep for 10 minutes.  Remove tea bags, then stir in sugar and pomegranate molasses.  Refrigerate until cold, then serve over ice.

Makes 12 cups.