Banana Seats & Fireworks

The Fourth of July conjures up hazy recollections of banana seat bikes at neighborhood block parties, picking Blue crab fresh from the Chesapeake Bay and watermelon-seed spitting contests. I even recall a particular Fourth of July, back in the early 90’s where neighbors performed the popular Madonna song, Vogue, while decked out in blonde wigs and black leather, thus sparking an early love affair for beauty marks (er, moles) and tall black boots.

Nineteen years and 1,500 miles from the east coast later, I am re-evaluating my defining Fourth of July festivities.

In reverence of my favorite shell fish, I munch on Utz Crab chips and sip Perrier’s Pamplemousse Rose (grapefruit scented) sparkling water, while flipping through the July editions of Gourmet and Bon Appétit for inspiration.

I drool over coffee-rubbed, barbeque burgers, chipotle baby-back ribs, peanut butter and chocolate chip blondies à la mode and a particular honey caramel peach pie.

With lips already in smacking mode, I open a notebook and begin planning in accordance with my allotted budget. Now there’s a surefire way to stunt my cooking enthusiasm. On a teaching salary, it is essential that I become the world’s most creatively prudent cook.

I remember the 99 cent strawberries from the grocer down the street and decide on a strawberry dessert. I think of the pot of basil on my front stoop and sweet potatoes in my cupboard. And, though slightly dejected at moments, having discarded romanticized notions of baby back ribs, lobster rolls and giant blueberry pies, I settle on a menu that is both budget-friendly and still lip-smacking-good. And, here it goes:

Grilled corn with cumin and lime
Open face tomato, egg and basil sandwiches
Sweet potato salad with cilantro and sautéed peppers
Mini frittatas with bacon and herbs
Strawberry crisp dessert

And, as for banana-seat bike riding and Madonna impersonations, I settle for the pool in the backyard and a place on the hood of the car for Houston’s fireworks show, with many thanks to host, Shell Oil.

Happy Fourth to Americans everywhere! We sure are a lucky bunch. God bless the USA!