By Sarah Kudlack, of Events by Sarah Elizabeth
This year, the Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday–a bummer for all of those planning on not feeling a 100% on the fifth. But, just because it’s the middle of the week doesn’t mean you can’t have a party that won’t be remembered by all!
In my house, the Fourth of July is almost a religious experience. We host a party every year and my husband goes all viva la Americana in pursuit of the most “American outfit” he can find. I use the term outfit loosely as it’s been known to include American flag spandex and a mullet wig…
When hosting a Fourth bash, besides minor explosives, the most important thing is the food! For summer barbecues, stick to the basics. Unless the entire party is indoors, keep in mind that it’s going to be hot out, so “cool” food is essential. Here are a couple of my summer barbecues faves…
These are my must-haves for summer barbecues, they offer something a little different that spice up the usual menu. (Pictured from clockwise, beginning from left-hand corner to right.)
- I LOVE the pasta salad with Gouda. I usually add some other veggies as well, red peppers, chickpeas, and cucumber. It is always fun to take recipe concepts you like and add a little of your own flavor! Try the recipe here, courtesy of Pioneer Woman.
- I lived in Memphis for a few years while growing up so I’m a big fan of pulled pork. For me it is essential to have cole slaw with my pork sandwich, not on the side but on top! The cool juices of cole slaw combined with the tangy BBQ can’t be beat! Click here to view Paula’s Deen’s undeniably stellar recipe, courtesy of Cooking Classy. Click here for a sweet-and-tangy slaw how-to.
- This baked beans recipe is something different than what is usually served at barbecues but oh so yummy, definitely worth a try. Generation Y Foodie’s recipe is a must-try, available by clicking here.
- When it comes to cornbread, Jiffy doesn’t cut it for me, and must be made with creamed corn. It’s the only way to go, and a great recipe is available via an Edible Mosaic here.
- This potato salad has a zesty kick and is a nice change from the standard. I love the bacon in this potato salad because I mean come on, who doesn’t like bacon? Click here for a recipe, courtesy of Alaska from Scratch.
- Another one of my all-time favorite barbecue food is deviled eggs. There are tons of different recipes out there: avocado eggs, Sriracha eggs, Ranch eggs, hummus eggs – the list goes on and on, but for me the classic is the only option! Click here for a classic deviled eggs recipe, courtesy of Pinch My Salt.
- Finally, fried chicken… let’s pause for a moment of silence…what better way to celebrate the birth of the nation than to enjoy some great fried chicken! Click here for a Buttermilk Brined Fried Chicken recipe, courtesy of Local Milk.
Though “winter foods” (soups, breads, etc.) are admittedly my preferred foods, there is definitely something to be said for summer foods. I feel like each of these recipes allow so much room for creativity, don’t be afraid to experiment!
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the birth of our great nation! It’s also a time where the majority of people get sauced, which is why my picnic food always has a high-carb level – it absorbs the alchy!
Enjoy your holiday, brought to you by the red, white & blue!?
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