Beth Chananie

Fire up the barbecue

This week saw the first day of summer and 90 degree temperatures to seal the deal. Next week comes July 4 and the age-old tradition of backyard barbecues with family and friends. (Note..if you do not have a barbecue, the information and recipes will work fine in a regular oven.)

After the calls are made to invite guests, check and make sure you have all the basic supplies, starting with charcoal briquettes or a full tank of propane for a gas grill. Also see if anyone has a special diet. Lois Goldrich reminded me of the importance of always having vegetarian options. She makes fresh vegetable skewers with cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, onions, and eggplant on the grill. You might also want to have a few veggie burgers on hand.