“Beef Patties With Bacon And Guacamole Topping” For Memorial Day

Well, its here, Memorial Day weekend! The unofficial start of the summer season. The last Monday in May is celebrated as a federal holiday in the United States since 1971. It was formerly known as Decoration Day and then changed in 1882 to Memorial Day. A day that we commemorate all American soldiers who died in military service. Memorial Day is an occasion for expressions of memory, to remember the people who served for our country, living or deceased. As time marches on it now has become a long weekend increasingly devoted to shopping, family get-togethers, BBQs, fireworks, trips to the beach, and national media events such as the Indianapolis 500 auto race, held since 1911 on Memorial Day.

My grandfather Louis A. Fiore

My grandfather Louis Fiore served in the Army. He was a corporal in the 9th US Infantry and was in Company A. When he was 17 he in-listed. (which he was under age) My grandfather fought in WWI and was wounded, (shot in the leg) in the battle at Chateau-Thierry, in France. He received a Purple Heart for his bravery and other medals as well. After his leg healed, he chose to go to Germany and joined the Army of Occupation with his old unit. When he passed on he was buried in the Long Island National Cemetery, Farmingdale, NY. I am so proud to have a grandfather who loved his country to defend it for our freedom. So today I honor him on this Memorial Day weekend.  

For Italian Americans it is especially important to remember that more that 1.5 million Italian Americans served in World War II – thousands of them died to liberate Italy. All Italians and Italian Americans have much to be grateful for today on this Memorial Day. Memorial Day is also a time to celebrate peace and sacrifice. There are many popular activities that some may enjoy such as, Memorial Day parades that take place in your local towns or cities.

One way to kick off the summer is with a family barbeque. Did you know that May is National BBQ month? What better way to celebrate than cooking outside on a grill. As you and your family reminisce about loved ones in the service there are so many quick and easy ideas for a very tasty BBQ. Some options are fresh corn on the cob roasted on the grill, enjoy the flavor of  fruit pies, lemonade, and you can’t forget, the gooey barbeque sauce or glaze to coat on your favorite meat, seafood or fresh vegetables…… yum, finger lick’ in good. 

My dad is our “Grill Master” in my family. When we were young kids he would use charcoal but as the years went on he used the gas BBQ. He would even go outside in the rain with an umbrella or in the winter when it was snowing and start up the BBQ for our dinner. He puts on his apron with his tools and cooks for the family, his famous steak, ribs, or burgers. Thanks dad for delicious meals and memories that will last forever! However you celebrate your Memorial Day remember to incorporate your holiday traditions with your family and no matter where you are, take time to be thankful for our freedom.

This weekend’s recipe is called “Beef Patties with Bacon and Guacamole Topping.” My family loves these spruced up hamburgers. Bacon flavors the meat and the guacamole sauce adds a tasty twist.

“Beef Patties with Bacon and Guacamole Topping”
 

Ingredients:
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded white cheddar cheese
2/3 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup ketchup
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 pounds ground turkey or beef
10 bacon strips (cooked & set aside)
10 hamburger buns split, optional

Directions for burgers:
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Crumble ground turkey/beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into ten 3/4-in.-thick patties. Grill bacon and put on the side. Grill patties, uncovered, over medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side or until juices run clear and a meat thermometer reads 160°F. Serve on buns with the bacon, and the Guacamole topping.

Guacamole Topping:
2 large avocados (about 1 lb) pitted, peeled, and cubed
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon red pepper sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt, if desired
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons chopped red onion
2 tablespoons diced tomato
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together with a Mortar & Pestle or a flat spoon until it is creamy & spreadable.  Add as topping to burgers. So, enjoy your holiday weekend, be safe, and 'Tutti, Mangia”

   
Till Next Time…………………….

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