I’ve gotten a few emails/messages from readers looking for some 4th of July ideas and inspiration, so I thought I’d pop in and offer up a few links and recipes. I still don’t know what we’re cooking up at Chez T.–we had initially planned to be out of town for the holiday, but plans changed at the last minute. So we’ll be here after all, which frankly, suits me just fine. We have a bucketload of leftover fireworks from last year, so we’ll see if those suckers are still any good. I imagine we’ll also throw back a few cocktails and bust out the grill (when we get a propane refill, that is).
While we’re on the subject of cocktails, if you’re in the mood for something other than beer, I’ve gotcha covered.
Want to start things off with a bang? How about a Raspberry Smash?
Or fend off the afternoon heat with a refreshing Pimm’s Cup.
Or this spiked lemonade:
If you need some things to nibble on while you fill the water balloons or lounge on that deck chair, blasting the Springsteen, I have some ideas:
Grilled Watermelon “Pizza” will get the conversations going!
Boozy Spiked Tomatoes are definitely festive!
Speaking of tomatoes, if you want summer side dishes, you really can’t do any better than these amazing, cheesy, stuffed tomatoes on the grill.
This orzo with smoky vinaigrette will definitely win over some guests.
Or you could bump up your side dish game with an Edamame Salad for extra protein…
These cute little Wrapped Potatoes will surely make everyone smile, too.
As for the main event, you can’t go wrong with Dr. Pepper-Glazed Pork.
Pepper Steak with Bleu Cheese Sauce, anyone?
If seafood is your thing, Scallops with Jalapeno Pesto will bring a little heat to your party!
I’m personally leaning a little towards this family favorite and crowd-pleaser, Stuffed Chicken Involtini.
As for dessert, I’m not really much into fuss or fanfare, so we’ll be keeping it simple with some marinated berries and ice cream, or if I get organized, perhaps these Festive Watermelon Ice Pops will make an appearance, just for fun.
Whatever you decide to do for your fourth of July celebration, I’m wishing you a fun and safe holiday. I hope you spend it with those you love and eat some delicious things!
xoxo,
Kitch
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Dang, I wish I lived next door to you.
Julie,
I wish you did, too! Cone dog and Mozzy could hang out and watch Bill eat cashews, and then they could watch us eat all the other stuff, too!
Happy 4th! Wish we were throwing back and lighting explosives with you! Xoxo