Make a great tailgate party

For many Americans, the summer backyard barbecue is just training camp for the real thing: tailgating season. Like the stalwarts of the offensive line, veteran tailgaters hone their skills by testing and tweaking recipes throughout the summer to prepare for the opening game.

More than 94 percent of tailgaters prepare their food at the stadium, and 19 percent of Americans dine on the king of grilled goods – the bratwurst.

Brats and other tailgating delicacies may be one of the reasons more than 40 percent of Americans have skipped part or all of the game to continue tailgating. The best tailgaters know the mantra: “Come early, stay late and celebrate.”

Ready to fire up the grill? Here’s a great recipe that’s perfect for pre-gaming or anytime.

The Confetti Bratwurst Hoagie is a festive and colorful way to brighten up an ordinary lunch!

Confetti Bratwurst Hoagie

1 package bratwurst

10 slices Swiss cheese

5 hoagie rolls

Confetti Coleslaw:

1 cup finely shredded green cabbage

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper

3 tablespoons red Russian dressing

Prepare brats according to package directions; keep warm. Combine cabbage, onion, pepper and dressing; blend well. Place brats on open-face hoagie rolls and add 2 slices Swiss cheese to each. Place under broiler until cheese is melted. Top sandwiches with approximately 1/4 cup coleslaw mixture and serve. 5 servings