"Grilling is like sunbathing. Everyone knows it is bad for you but no one ever stops doing it."
-Laurie Colwin, 'Home Cooking' (1988)
Welcome to the July issue of Seasoned Cooking. July holds a major foodie celebration for Americans. Yes, Independence Day is a great time for get togethers and fireworks, but it is really our summer version of Thanksgiving. It’s a time to flex our culinary skills and invite our friends and loved ones to enjoy the fruits of that labor.
So this month, we’re doing our best to help build some great summer entertaining for you. We begin with a great feature article that puts a twist on the traditional cookout. Instead of burgers or hot dogs, this ethnic menu features the tastes and textures of the Middle East. Enjoy a delightful menu featuring marinated and grilled chicken and vegetables and a savory bulgur pilaf pilled high with garlic shrimp. It’s enough to have your mouth watering over and over again!
Of course, there’s more to the backyard entertaining season than what comes off the grill. We have that covered for you as well. We begin with the burger’s best friend: the French fry. Phil’s International Flair pays tribute to this humble side dish and urges you to make your own for the best flavor and tastes to suit your style. If something a little healthier is to your liking, try the simple gazpacho recipe that’s being shared in the Rush Hour column. It’s like sipping summer! And speaking of sipping, get a wide variety of iced tea recipes in this month’s heart of summer Through the Kitchen Window column. Rossana covers everything from southern sweet tea to Thai iced tea.
Of course, you don’t want to miss out on a sweet ending to your entertaining feasts. Can we suggest the patriotic parfaits featured in the Happy Endings column? These sweet treats are concoctions of fresh berries nestled between layers of thick pudding that will have you raising your glass and spoon to wish America a Happy Birthday!
There's a lot more to enjoy in this month's issue of Seasoned Cooking -- from a look at pasta salads to the ultimate morning treat … think cheesecake-inspired pancakes covered in fresh strawberries. Enjoy and here's to a seasoned lifestyle.
