Presidential Salsa...

We all know the story of George W and his trusty little hatchet cutting down the cherry tree from our childhood. But did you know cherries can be used for more than just filling pies. This sweet and zesty salsa can be a condiment for your favorite chicken, seafood, pork entrées or you can try it as a dip with whole-grain crackers. I came across this recipe many years ago and usually pull it out of my recipe collection around President’s Day weekend ~ thus the name. Saturday night I decided to use it as a condiment and ladled it over some grilled tilapia fillets.

Believe me when I say this simple salsa is a keeper. What is great is you can embellish upon it and make it as hot & spicy as you want. The sweetness of the cherries helps to balance whatever fire you want to add. So, if you like your politics filled with passion and excitement ~ old George W the first and Abe will understand.



Presidential Salsa

Ingredients:
1 cup dark sweet cherries, frozen or fresh and pitted
2 tablespoons basil, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
⅛ teaspoon Tabasco sauce, or to taste
Salt, to taste

Chop the cherries into course pieces and combine them with the remaining ingredients. Refrigerate the salsa for at least 1 hour. Use this like any other salsa: with crackers, in burritos, as a condiment with chicken, fish or pork.

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George’s notes:

• The story goes that when Mr. Washington saw his beloved cherry chopped down he asked his son George if he know how it happened. "I can't tell a lie, Pa. You know I can't tell a lie. I did cut it with my hatchet," replied George. From all historical evidence, the story is not true. The story was the work of a writer named Mason Locke Weems in his book for young readers called The Life and Memorable Actions of George Washington published in 1800 a year after George's death.
• According to the federal government, the holiday observed on the third Monday in February is officially Washington's Birthday. But many Americans believe that this holiday is now called "Presidents' Day," in honor of both President Washington and Lincoln, whose birthdays are Feb. 22 and Feb. 12, respectively. It turns out that whether you honor one or the other or both of these presidents may depend on where you live.
• Cherries are loaded with anthocyanin, a phytochemical that accounts for their deep red color and helps prevent chronic disease. They are also a significant source of dietary fiber and potassium.