On this 2008 4th of July, I will be enjoying the leisure of a day off with friends from around the globe. We'll enjoy the options of NYC while we mix in traditions from each of our pasts. Korean fried chicken, mojito's, passion fruit tarts, pizza, arugula salad, macaroni salad and chips and dip.
All this food got me thinking of my own past and what I was most excited about bringing to today's feast. I think it's the macaroni salad.
I grew up in the midwest, and there isn't anything we get more excited about than bringing the family together over food–and in my case picnic-style, summertime food. I fondly remember heading to my maternal grandmother's house, where the whole family (cousins included) assembled for the mid-year gathering. It was always pot-luck style with everyone bringing something different to complete the feast. There were always barbeque hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken and ribs. Couple that with a choice of salads that ranged from macaroni, potato, bean to traditional lettuce with cherry tomatoes.
My relatives had specialities too and we always looked forward to lasagna, macaroni & cheese, baked beans, casseroles and desserts. Ah, desserts. My grandmother made most of them and this time of year you were sure to find pies. Mostly, I remember apple and strawberry but there were often others that had peach or chocolate. Grandma loved to make chocolate chip cookies with peanut butter and butterscotch chips and they were delicious. Recipes brought to America from Europe ranged from sweet onion bread to strudel and even baklava.
I am truly thankful that I was a kid with a huge appetite and a hyper metabolism because I ate till I was stuffed and I loved each and every bite. Now I am thankful for the wonderful memories of it all and eager to bring back some of those recipes for today.
xxo
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