The rain has been unrelenting here in south Louisiana, and there seems to be no end in sight. I am looking ahead to July 4th weekend next weekend, which is also the beginning of Jim's "birthday week", and hoping it dries up enough for us to have people in the back yard for a barbecue. Right now, it's a mud pit, and between the 3 cats who know nothing of wiping their feet, plus the adult who's not diligent about it, my floors are, well, not white sock proof.

For this week's recipes, I've selected a garlicky-hot crab recipe-- if you have access to live crabs, by all means, go for it. If not, buy cooked crabs and start in the middle. The grilled turkey burger is a nod to our ongoing and successfull efforts to purge the Pandemic Pudge, and the old-fashioned eggplant casserole will be a welcome addition to any potluck you might be planning to attend.

Enjoy the recipes below, stay safe and healthy, and, as always, let me know what's on your mind. 

Best regards,

Susan Ford, Publisher and Editorial Director
Louisiana Kitchen & Culture

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In the Mail:

Garlic-Chile Crabs

This recipe is considerably more accessible if you have access to cooked crabs. It's as delicious as it is messy, so be sure to set out a stack of clean kitchen towels for mopping fingers. The sauce slightly wilts the greens; be sure to enjoy them with the crabs.

Turkey Burger with
Grilled Vidalia Onion Rings

This is a healthier take on the traditional grilled burger for the 4th of July. Substitute any sweet yellow onion if you don't have access to Vidalin onions.

Eggplant and Seafood Casserole

This old fashioned summer casserole is a Cajun country classic, and couldn't be simpler to put together. Start this out on top of the stove in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet instead of transferring to a casserole dish for a one-pan dinner.