There is nothing like a Fourth of July barbecue. Kids and adults love the patriotic fanfare as well as the smoky-sweet barbecue aroma in the air on this special day.

I think I have made the gamut of dishes that somehow have come to signify Fourth of July. From southern pulled pork to ribs of every kind and grilled sausages to a variety of burgers, steaks and salads, I've kicked up the flavors and reimagined multiple dishes. When I want a simple menu, I like to offer my standard juicy beef burgers and add one other burger to satisfy the non-meat eaters at my gathering. And then there's this ahi burger with ginger sesame mayonnaise, a true crowd-pleaser.

Fresh tuna has become a staple at most supermarkets. Select tuna that is very fresh and doesn't have a bloodline running through it. The tuna is finely chopped by pulsing it in the food processor with plenty of garlic and fresh basil.

Once refrigerated and firm, the burgers are grilled until medium doneness. You can double or triple this recipe, but do it in batches. Sometimes I add a slice or two of avocado on top of the lettuce. Make sure the burgers are not overcooked or they will be dry.

To round out your meal consider adding your favorite coleslaw or potato salad, grilled fresh corn on the cob and a fresh fruit platter for a colorful menu. You can also saute the burgers in a large skillet over medium-high heat if weather isn't cooperating for barbecuing.

Another variation is to make these into sliders (about 3-inch mini burgers with mini buns) and serve as an appetizer. I also love to serve the ginger sesame flavored mayonnaise as a dipping sauce for a vegetable platter (crudites) that includes carrots, pea pods, baby tomatoes and asparagus.

Ahi Burgers with Ginger Sesame Mayonnaise

Serves 4

For the burgers:

4 cloves garlic, peeled

...continued