The Fourth of July is a holiday that calls for staying on theme. Flag images abound, patriotic plates and napkins adorn tables, and of course, the meal needs to be on point too. Since food is what we’re all about at Guiding Stars, we’re sharing a roundup of red, white, and blue recipes to enjoy as you wish America a very happy birthday.
Appetizers, snacks, and sides
The ideal Fourth of July dishes are easy to serve in any setting. Your watermelon-loving guests will enjoy chilled watermelon gazpacho shooters along with watermelon salad. Alternatively, serve this red, white, and blue salad. Round out your appetizers with strawberry salsa paired with blue corn chips. If you’re looking for a seasonal side that works with just about any dish, try this couscous and fruit salad.
Watermelon Salad
Watermelon in a simple salad with a little balsamic vinegar, onion, and mint is one of those dishes that’s more than the sum of its parts.
View recipe »Main meals
Many Fourth of July meals start on the grill, and of course, hamburgers and hotdogs top most menus. If these traditional foods are finding their way to your plate, you can still bring color along too. Try toppings that go beyond ketchup and cheese, while adding color and sneaking some veggies like roasted or grilled peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Choose Guiding Stars earning condiments to boost nutrition, while still bringing plenty of taste to your plate. Alternatively grill a fish dish, served with this strawberry avocado salsa.
Strawberry-Avocado Salsa
The sweetness of strawberry and the creaminess of avocado make a unique topping that’s great as a topping for salad, tacos, rice bowls, or just chips.
View recipe »Dessert
It wouldn’t be a party without dessert. With these recipes and a bit of creativity you can carry out your festive theme. The brilliant blue color of this blueberry sorbet will wow family and friends. If you’re looking for a creamier dessert, try this summer smoothie that’s delicious “as is” or frozen in a popsicle mold. For a very simple, but beautiful dessert, offer guests a layered fruit cup of strawberries. topped with either vanilla yogurt or a bit of whipped cream, and finished with blueberries. Alternatively, a single scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with fresh sliced strawberries or fruit sauce (slowly simmer fresh fruit with a bit of sugar and corn starch) will also round out your meal perfectly.
Blueberry Sorbet
Try this with fresh strawberries or raspberries or a combination of your favorite berries. Pour into popsicle molds for a fun alternative way to eat it.
View recipe »With a festive menu and food safety in mind, your Fourth of July meal will be a beautiful holiday to enjoy with family and friends. Check out our grilling guide for more terrific tips as you prepare for the festivities.