The Fourth of July — a holiday known for grill outs, lake time and fireworks. This is the epitome of summertime, folks. In a way, this is the halfway mark of summer vacation. If you’re like I am, you’re thinking, Oh, thank God, only six more weeks until I can return to magical Oxford, Ohio! or you’re thinking, Please don’t make me leave me leave the homeland in six weeks. Either way, the Fourth is a day to celebrate all things America and enjoy quality time with friends and family. And what better way to celebrate than with food?
I’ve got some great recipes here, so get ready to strap on an apron and drag out that grill from the garage; And don’t worry, I’m not about to list off a bunch of unrealistic, super tedious recipes with hard-to-find ingredients. (Thank you Pinterest for setting for repeatedly setting me up for failure). Trust me readers, I got your back.
1. Fire Cracker Cookies
These are fireworks in cookie form, how fun and festive! (Hey, I saw you roll your eyes. Suspension of disbelief everyone, okay? Throw me a bone here.) These doughy pieces of heaven are made with cake batter, which sounds flippin’ awesome because who wouldn’t love a cross between a cake and a cookie?
2. Tortellini Kabobs
Well, it’s lunchtime on this beautiful holiday, and you’re starved but don’t want to leave the boat. But wait, you just remembered that you made a sensational arrangement of kabobs that are waiting for you inside the chilled cooler you brought along on the boat (Wow, you are so smart and proactive!). These kabobs are real basic and insanely delicious. You’re welcome.
3. Red, White & Blue Punch
For those of you who aren’t 21, but don’t want to be that awkward one at the family barbecue holding a boring old soda, you’re in luck! Come prepared with this tasty fruit punch, maybe some of your family members will even ditch their cocktails for a cup of your tasty punch (Unlikely, but hey, it’s a nice thought).
4. Spiked Lemonade
And for those of you who are 21, feast your eyes upon this refreshing cocktail recipe. You’ll feel so trendy drinking out of a mason jar, you’ll basically feel obligated to take an Instagram. Actually, I’ll be mad if you don’t, not that I’m biased or anything.
5. Red, White & Blue Watermelon Salad
Watermelon in the summer just feels SO right. Having a bomb.com salad at a Fourth of July barbecue is basically a requirement, and with the stigma of unhealthy food found at these holiday gatherings it’s always nice to throw some greens onto that carb filled plate. This one is super healthy and obviously tastes amazing.
6. 4th of July Toast
Who said the fun Fourth of July food doesn’t start until lunch time? Pshh, definitely not me! It absolutely should start at breakfast. This toast is almost too cute to eat (except you will anyways because delicious always overrides cute).
7. Berry Trifle with Homemade Whipped Cream
This recipe calls for pre-made angel food cake; meaning pick up one from the store; meaning this is perfect for lazy people like me. Your family will start bowing down when they see you roll up to the barbecue with this bad boy in your hands.
8. The Best Grilled Corn On The Cob
In my opinion, you shouldn’t really mess too much with corn on the cob. A little butter, salt and pepper is really all you need. No need to get all fancy. This recipe will break it down for you if you’re looking to get specific measurements. But if you’re like I am, you’ll just slap on some butter and shake on some pepper and a lot of salt and call it a day.
Happy Fourth of July, you beautiful people! Now get out there and give America some lovin’!
