Stars and Stripes Forever

The Fourth of July was always a big deal growing up, in part because my Dad loved America and in part because his birthday and my parents anniversary is on the 3rd. And since we had a backyard pool, the party was usually at our place with a BBQ followed by a parade with sparklers and fireworks with John Philip Souza's Stars and Stripes Forever playing in the background. No matter how many times Michael and I tried to hide the album, cassette or CD, Dad always seemed to find a copy of it (aided in part by his cousin, Barry, who knew what we were up to and supplied him with an extra copy or two).

The following recipes are great for any summer gathering. All can be prepared ahead of time, or thrown on the grill at the last minute:

Beverages

Anga Soda
Cherry-Pineapple Punch
Ginger Ale-Sherbet Punch
Ginger Ale Syrup and Drink

Margaritas
Micheladas
Sangria

Appetizers and Sides

Antipasto Black-Eyed Pea-Corn Relish Boiled Peanuts "Go Tell" Guacamole Mango Salsa	Melon Pineapple Salsa OOOLaLa Dip Pimento Cheese Shrimp and Egg Spread Stuffed Celery Tortilla Rollups
Soups, Salads and Sides
Beet Gazpacho Caesar Salad Cold Celery Gazpacho Grilled Bread	Hominy Casserole Lime Gelatin with Pineapple and Cheese Summer Soup (Cucumbers and Yogurt) Tabbouli
Entrees
Beef Tournedos Chris' Beans Chicken Fajita Sandwiches Ginger Marinade for Pork Loin	Muffaletta Sandwich Grilled Leg of Lamb Remoulade Sauce Texas Chili Beans
Desserts
Almond Milk Curd B'Nilla Pudding Ice Cream with Raspberry Sauce	Peach Cobbler Ribbon Finger Jewels Vinegar Cobbler