NATIONAL GUACAMOLE DAY

National Guacamole Day on September 16 brings fresh flavors together for the perfect celebration. What a great way to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month!

Avocados shine as the star of this dip! Lime juice, tomatoes, onion, and seasonings make guacamole a guilt-free addition to any snack or meal.

Since avocados fall under the superfood category, feel free to indulge. Packed full of good fats and nutrients, along with the fresh taste of lime and hint of spice, the dip is flavorful. It’s easy to make, too. Take it to work or use it for a party dish.

Guacamole is versatile, too. For example, add it as a topping on a quesadilla or even add it to a salad. Of course, the simplest way to enjoy is by dipping your favorite tortilla chip.

Originating with the Aztecs in Mexico, guacamole is an avocado-based sauce that has become popular in American cuisine as a dip, condiment, and salad ingredient. 

Using a mortar and pestle, mash ripe avocados and then mixing in sea salt.  Beyond the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and lemon juice, hot sauce, yogurt or other seasonings can be added.  If a celebration calls for spicier guacamole, add jalapenos, chilis, cumin, or red pepper. 

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalGuacamoleDay

Mix up your favorite recipe for guacamole. Go to your favorite restaurant and order some fresh guacamole. While there, give a shout out to the restaurants with the best guacamole around.  Be sure to invite friends. As we say around here, why #CelebrateEveryDay if you don’t do it with friends? Share your recipes and find the best combination. Use #NationalGuacamoleDay to share on social media.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Beginning on September 15, and continuing through to October 15, we recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the four weeks, celebrations honor the heritage and contributions made by members of the Hispanic community. President Lyndon Johnson first declared Hispanic Heritage Week in September of 1968. Years later, in 1988, U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California) introduced legislation to expand Hispanic Heritage Week into a full month. Festivities begin on September 15, marking the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. With great fanfare, celebrations sweep across Latin America, Central American, and on into Mexico and Chili commemorating each country’s independence from week to week!

CONTRIBUTIONS

As of 2016, the Hispanic population has grown to nearly 57 million people in the United States. Amazingly, Hispanic people contribute to two-thirds of the residents, with that number increasing every day. Furthermore, an estimated 27 million Hispanics were eligible to vote that same year, proving people of Hispanic heritage are a thriving part of society. As the Hispanic population continues to grow in strides, more opportunity presents itself to embrace the rich culture and vast history they provide. From coast to coast, we celebrate Hispanic heritage every day in mainstream society. It’s not only reflecting our cultural differences; it’s adding a different perspective to our lives for us to enjoy.

Hispanic people across the country contribute to society in unprecedented ways. Historically, Alberto Gonzales is credited as being the first Hispanic U.S. Attorney General, while Mel Martinez is considered the first Cuban-American U.S. Senator. Currently, and politically, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, both members of the Hispanic community, are members of the U.S. Senate. Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic to sit as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Undeniably, representation from the Hispanic community is found in schools, public office, medical, fashion, as well as every aspect of business.

In addition, pop culture contributions by the Hispanic community flourishes thanks to many talented artists, such as Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Carlos Santana, and Jennifer Lopez. Finally, we need to give credit to the countless tasty Hispanic recipes found across the nation. Hispanic food has increasingly become a part of mainstream Americana. We relish the flavor and spice deeply infused into the traditions. Dishes ranging from tacos and tamales to Cuban sandwiches, nachos, Tres leche cake, family taco night, tequila, and Mojitos, entice us to enjoy the Hispanic heritage, one bite at a time.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Originally, President Lyndon Johnson declared Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Through later legislation, submitted by U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California), the week was expanded to National Hispanic Heritage Month under the direction of President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #HispanicHeritageMonth

Joining local celebrations during National Hispanic Heritage Month is a fantastic way to meet new people. Additionally, you can learn more about the contributions Hispanics have made in areas of politics, business, the arts, sports, fashion, and cuisine, to name a few. Embracing the history and traditions of another culture not only broadens your knowledge, but it also teaches appreciation of other people and their customs.

Use #HispanicHeritageMonth in social media correspondence.

NATIONAL FAJITA DAY

On August 18th, National Fajita Day recognizes the sizzling deliciousness of the savory Tex-Mex flavor found in fajitas.

In the early 1930s, Mexican vaqueros in Southwest Texas developed what we’ve grown to love all over the United States. Using throwaway cuts of beef, they developed the fajita. However, it wasn’t long before they became a staple in the region. These cowboys cooked the steak over an open fire or grill. Once cooked, they served it with flour or corn tortillas. In later years, fresh Pico de gallo, guacamole, and southwestern spices elevated the fajita. Soon the convenient meal for hardworking cowboys made an introduction to new audiences. The fajita became a destination food in the culinary world.

As their popularity grew, fajitas added a colorful flair to Tex-Mex menus. Sizzling platters full of bright peppers, onions, and a mouthwatering aroma delighted patrons. Menu choices beyond tender steak also broadened the fajita spectrum. Sweet shrimp, lean chicken, or pork with freshly made tortillas arrived at tables with fanfare. By the 1980s, most Mexican restaurants in the United States served fajitas. In the modern culinary kitchen, lime, cilantro and a plethora of vegetables find their way into a fajita, too. Add to that the perfect seasonings and mouths really begin to water!

Another flavor boost comes from grilling with mesquite. It adds a smoky flavor and bacon adds crunch. Of course, who could forget the cheese? With their festive presentations, fajitas continue to be enjoyed today. The fajita has come a long way from skirt steak trimmings!

NATIONAL FAJITA DAY HISTORY

On the Border LOGO

In 2016, On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina founded National Fajita Day to celebrate the sizzling Tex-Mex flavor of the fajita!

About On The Border

On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina is the world’s largest Mexican casual dining brand. They offer an extensive menu of great-tasting, classic, and contemporary Mexican food. When you visit, enjoy sizzling mesquite-grilled fajitas, and Margaritas as big and bold as the border itself. On The Border is owned by Border Holdings, LLC, with more than 150 restaurants in 34 states, Puerto Rico, Asia, and the Middle East. Follow and like On The Border on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OnTheBorderMexicanGrillandCantina and @ontheborder on Twitter. For more information, visit www.ontheborder.com.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFajitaDay

While you’re celebrating the day, invite a friend to join you for these flavorful entrees! Whether you prefer shrimp, steak or chicken, there’s a fajita for you. Pick your favorite from all the amazing flavors, and don’t forget to use #NationalFajitaDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL AVOCADO DAY

Ripe for the picking, add this delicious superfruit to your menu on National Avocado Day on July 31st!

While guacamole is grand, don’t settle for just the chips and dip on this food holiday. Since avocado is so versatile, clear the table for the entire meal. That includes everything from the appetizer and main dish all the way to dessert. On National Avocado Day, this tree grown fruit has them all covered!

Avocados are more than a staple food in the American diet; they are proven to be a key ingredient in recipes for both inside the body and on the body! According to the Hass Avocado Board, as of 2015, avocado consumption in the United States doubled since 2005 and quadrupled since 2000. In fact, a whopping 4.25 billion avocados were sold in the U.S. in 2015. That’s four point two five billion of this amazingly beautiful food.

Super Food

There are many reasons to celebrate National Avocado Day. For one, avocados target insulin resistance with heart-healthy fats. They also fight Alzheimer’s with its Omega 3 fatty acids. Another avocado superpower is preventing and repairing damage due to its source of Vitamins C, E and K.

One of the secret weapons in an avocado is the high oleic acid content. This moisturizing fatty acid helps keep skin soft and hydrated but also supports the regeneration of damaged skin cells reducing redness and irritation. Eat more of this superfruit or cook with avocado oil if you have this type of skin issue.

Beauty

Ancient Aztecs used the avocado to beautify their skin topically with masks. Then in the early 20th century, the cosmetic industry discovered the benefits of its oil in creams, lotions, facial cleansers and other products that required a smooth application. Interestingly, the practice continues today.

As mentioned before, avocados have found their way into every meal of the day. Of course, avocados celebrate with dessert effortlessly. Additionally, the creamy texture replaces calorie-laden oils with healthful fats. That means we can indulge without the guilt. What better way to celebrate National Avocado Day than to indulge a little?

HOW TO OBSERVE #NATIONALAVOCADODAY

Enjoy an avocado and try a new recipe. Share your favorite avocado recipe and use #NationalAvocadoDay to post on social media.

Sliced in a salad, on toast or paired with Fajitas, Tacos, or Nachos, chances are you can find a variety of ways to enjoy avocado today!

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NATIONAL AVOCADO DAY HISTORY

Model Meals founded National Avocado Day at the peak of California avocado season, on July 31. Model Meals is a meal delivery service established in 2015 by Camille May and professional curve model Danika Brysha. The company works with local organic growers and farmers as much as possible to create whole food-focused menus, encouraging sustainable agriculture and healthy eating.

Whole30 approved, gluten-free and Paleo-friendly, a huge part of the Model Meals lifestyle is avocados, whether that’s in a dish or to have on the go. Danika and Camille famously carry “purse avocados” for a midday dose of healthy fat and vitamins. Obviously passionate about this superfood, Model Meals wanted to celebrate it to the fullest, and the idea to create its own holiday was born. If you’re curious if Model Meals delivers in your area, click here

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STRAWBERRY RHUBARB WINE DAY

Strawberry Rhubarb Wine Day on the third Saturday in July celebrates the strawberry sweetness of summer with a relaxing sip of wine. The day offers an excellent opportunity for a wine tasting featuring a strawberry rhubarb wine, too. 

In July of 2010, Maple River Winery in historic downtown Casselton, North Dakota, proudly accepted the Double Gold Award at the Indy International Wine Competition for its Strawberry Rhubarb Wine. What a delicious way to celebrate! But what is rhubarb?

It may be difficult for the common person to classify rhubarb. Is it a fruit? Is it a vegetable? While technically rhubarb may be known as a tart perennial vegetable, combining it with strawberries creates a unique flavor. Some even consider it the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Rhubarb even went to court over the matter. In 1947 in a customs court in Buffalo, New York, the court ruled that since rhubarb is used as a fruit in the United States, for the purposes of regulations and duties, it was to be counted as a fruit. 

And from the wine perspective, that’s a good thing. Fruit wines sound so much better than vegetable wine. Of course, strawberry rhubarb wine celebrates the day with a flavor that tastes like summer. 

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HOW TO OBSERVE #StrawberryRhubarbWineDay

While enjoying the summer day, savor some chilled strawberry rhubarb wine. Uncork a bottle and pour a glass. Actually, pour a few glasses and share it with a friend or two. Strawberry rhubarb wine goes well with a picnic, so take a bottle or two! A bottle makes a great gift, too. Strawberry rhubarb wine also complements many dishes and you just can’t go wrong! Share your celebration by posting on social media using #StrawberryRhubarbWineDay.  

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Loomie Wine Bar Cabinet with LED Light, Home Coffee Cabinet with Wine Rack and Glass Holder, Kitchen Buffet Sideboard W Storage Shelf, Freestanding Liquor Cabinet for Living Room, Dining Room (Black)