How Can You Create a Memorial Day Culinary Tribute with Cheese?

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have died in service to our country, and what better way to celebrate than by gathering with loved ones for a delicious meal? As a writer from Jersey City with a passion for culinary techniques involving cheese, I have crafted a special menu that brings together the flavors of the season, balanced with the richness of different types of cheese. In this article, I’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a memorable Memorial Day picnic, featuring a standout cheese board and a mouth-watering cheese-infused recipe that’s sure to impress your guests.

Firstly, let’s talk about the cheese board. A well-curated cheese board can be the star of any gathering, offering a variety of textures and flavors that cater to all palates. For this occasion, I recommend including a mix of soft, semi-soft, hard, and blue cheeses. Here are my top picks:

1. **Soft Cheese**: Brie – Creamy and buttery, it pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and honey.
2. **Semi-Soft Cheese**: Havarti – Mild and slightly tangy, it can be paired with crisp apples or pears.
3. **Hard Cheese**: Aged Cheddar – Sharp and nutty, it’s perfect with pickles and a hearty bread.
4. **Blue Cheese**: Gorgonzola – Rich and tangy, it complements figs and spiced nuts beautifully.

For a delightful presentation, arrange your cheeses on a wooden board and garnish with seasonal fruits, nuts, and crackers. Don’t forget to label each cheese so your guests know what they’re enjoying.

Now, onto the main attraction: my Cheesy BBQ Chicken Sliders. These sliders are packed with flavor and are easy to prepare, making them ideal for a Memorial Day picnic.

### Cheesy BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe

#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slider buns
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon parsley

#### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. Split the slider buns and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet.
4. Evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over the buns.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top of the chicken.
6. Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese layer.
7. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and parsley.
8. Brush the tops of the slider buns with the butter mixture.
9. Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.

Serve these cheesy BBQ chicken sliders warm and watch as your guests savor every bite. These sliders are not only tasty but also a wonderful way to commemorate Memorial Day with a meal that’s made with care and thoughtfulness.

Memorial Day is more than just a day off; it's a time to reflect and remember. Whether you're having a quiet family gathering or hosting a larger backyard picnic, incorporating cheese into your Memorial Day menu is sure to elevate your celebration. From the carefully selected cheese board to the irresistible sliders, every detail has been considered to help you create moments of joy and connection. Enjoy your Memorial Day, and here's to great food, cherished memories, and honoring those who have served.