It’s almost fair time across the country. And fairs are fantastic places to sample some, er, interesting treats.

Like this donut cheeseburger (above). It’s a contest to come up with the most outrageous food combinations. Some are winners. Some are not.

Fried foods are a HUGE deal at the fair.

Fried Twinkies, fried pineapple, fried burgers, fried milkshakes. You name it.

It’s a gastronomical taste explosion! And so fun!

So tell me, will YOU be going to the fair this year? What’s your favorite fair fare?

This summer is blockbuster movie time! There are some great flicks coming out this summer. And here’s a few movie inspired menus to help you enjoy the experience even more!

HERCULES

The man. The myth. The legend. With all those muscles you just KNOW he feasted on lots of steak! I’m thinking the boneless ribeye above would do the trick.

DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

These hairy guys like to eat. So I’d make ’em some flat iron steaks with herbed butter with the grilled bananas recipe below for dessert. They like bananas, right? Delicious!

22 JUMP STREET

These fictional guys are in college now and, well, college guys love burgers! Try the Hawaiian Steak Burgers recipe below to get you in the mood!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

‘Tis the season to have a cookout in the parking lot! Baseball season, that is!

And to have a successful tailgating experience, you’ve gotta have a plan. So here’s mine…

THINK AHEAD

How many people will be joining you? After you figure that number, add 10. Making friends with other tailgaters is the norm, not the exception. So bring enough plates, napkins, utensils, condiments, drinks, food and fun for that many. Hey, leftovers are always welcome. Oh, and bring a cooler just for leftovers.

THINK COMPACT

Bring a portable grill (think camping style) for your chef. Plus grill supplies. Nothing that needs plugging in, unless you have a generator or other power source.

MAKE A MENU

Go with tried and true favorites – burgers, hot dogs, buns, chips, drinks and condiments. Anything unusual at a tailgate party and you might not have takers. Then what will they eat? And don’t forget dessert!

GET COMFORTABLE

Bring lots of folding chairs and at least one table. You’ve got to have a place to set all this stuff! Make it inviting for folks to hang around and talk about your favorite team. A tent to shade your group from the sun is also a great idea. Your relish and mayonnaise will thank you, too.

HAVE FUN!

Make lasting memories with your friends and family – all while eating your favorite foods! It’s a WIN/WIN!

Photos courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.