With simple steps and only a handful of ingredients, each of these easy Fourth of July recipes will have you out of the kitchen and celebrating in no time.
1/50
Country Ribs in the Oven
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom made these tender oven-baked country-style ribs for special Sunday suppers when we were growing up. A few common ingredients are all you need to make the zesty sauce that coats them. Everyone's eyes light up when I bring a plate of these ribs to the table, and company never suspects how easy they are to prepare. —Yvonne White, Williamson, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 289 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 1084mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
These country-style ribs are ideal for a summer barbecue, potluck or Fourth of July celebration. And the sauce? It’s finger-lickin’ good!
2/50
Red, White and Blueberry Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy pie gets dressed up with berries to make a showstopping display at any Fourth of July party or summer get-together. It's as pretty as it is tasty! —Kimberly McFarland, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 383 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 395mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
This pie is a dream come true for July Fourth. The berry toppings add a natural sweetness throughout every bite.
3/50
Watermelon Feta Flag Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family celebrates the Fourth of July with a watermelon salad that resembles the flag. Here’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. —Jan Whitworth, Roebuck, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup salad: 140 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
This refreshing watermelon salad is the perfect dish to bring to a July Fourth celebration. Why? It resembles the American flag! Guests won’t want to wait a second to dig in.
For more festive appetizers, you’ll love this Fourth of July charcuterie board.
4/50
Chipotle Chili Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
Long live childhood favorites! I created this recipe for the 125th anniversary of a small town in Minnesota. The medium spice level means that people of all ages love the flavors. —Barb Templin, Norwood, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 420 calories, 25g fat (12g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1096mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
Chili hot dogs are a classic for a reason, and this chipotle chili dog recipe is a new fresh and fun take. This is the perfect summertime dish to take to a Fourth of July barbecue.
5/50
Pork Kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe was originally for lamb, but I adapted it to pork and adjusted the spices. It's always requested when the grill comes out for the season. —Bobbie Jo Miller, Fallon, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 190 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 63mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
You truly can’t go wrong with kabobs in the summertime. These marinated pork kabobs are juicy, flavorful and everything you could want on a hot summer day.
6/50
Cheese-Stuffed Burgers for Two
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a sandwich that does traditional burgers one better—with a surprise pocket of cheddar! My family really enjoys the melted cheese center. —Janet Wood, Windham, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 357 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 787mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
These cheese-stuffed burgers are ideal for cookouts and potlucks, but prepare for all of them to be gone once your loved ones get their hands on them.
7/50
Dill Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
What's a picnic without potato salad? This recipe will add delightful new flavor to yours. The spices make the difference. —Cam Cox, Hemet, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 182 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
Potato salad is the perfect dish to start the summer. Here, dill, white pepper and garlic elevate a potluck classic.
8/50
Peach Caprese Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
During summer, I like to use the fresh ingredients I receive weekly from my local food share, and that's how I created this peach Caprese salad. I use large balls of mozzarella torn into pieces, but you could use smaller mozzarella pearls. —Mounir Echariti, Mendham, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 salad: 343 calories, 26g fat (10g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 336mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.
This salad is refreshing and juicy—perfect for your Fourth of July get-together. The peaches add a wonderfully sweet flavor that is ideal for summertime.
9/50
Coconut-Lemon Ice Cream Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
I developed this cool treat because I wanted to find a new use for cream of coconut. The sweet coconut combines beautifully with the tart lemon juice, and the streusel adds a nice crunch. Look for cream of coconut in the cocktail mixer section of your grocery store. —Janet Gill, Canton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 384 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 149mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (35g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
This lemon ice cream cake with coconut is a yummy dessert that everyone will adore. Cool down with the refreshing treat while enjoying Fourth of July festivities.
10/50
Apricot Ice Cream Soda
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe came from my husband’s aunt, who was born in the early 1900s. It's a delightful drink for hot Texas summers. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 ice cream soda: 554 calories, 22g fat (14g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 34mg sodium, 92g carbohydrate (88g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
This float is such a fun drink to bring to your Fourth of July party. The apricot adds a wonderful sweetness to the drink—it tastes like sunshine in a cup!
11/50
Three-Bean Baked Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I got this recipe from my aunt and made a couple of changes to suit my taste. With ground beef and bacon mixed in, these satisfying beans are a big hit at backyard barbecues and church picnics. I'm always asked to bring my special beans. —Julie Currington, Gahanna, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 269 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein.
Here is an easy dish that won’t take much time to cook up. When it comes to baked beans, this recipe will hit the spot.
12/50
Homemade Corn Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
Prepare corn dogs just like you'd get at the fair at home. Both kids and grown-ups will love the hearty corn dog batter. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn dog: 316 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
You can never go wrong with corn dogs during the summertime. For your Fourth of July party this year, make sure to whip up these delicious dogs for any and every party. Then, take your Independence Day celebration to the next level with these fun Fourth of July crafts.
13/50
Banana Split
From the Recipe Creator:
In 1904, the first banana split recipe was made here in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, by David Strickler, an apprentice pharmacist at a local drugstore. We still use his original formula when we make banana splits in our restaurants. —Melissa Blystone, Latrobe, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 710 calories, 31g fat (17g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 184mg sodium, 107g carbohydrate (68g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
This banana split is the ideal summertime dessert. You can’t go wrong with the fresh bananas, the three different types of delicious ice cream and the drool-worthy chocolate syrup.
14/50
Cucumbers with Dill
From the Recipe Creator:
Sprinkling cucumber slices with salt and letting them stand in a colander draws out excess water so they stay crisp when set on a barbecue buffet. Try them alongside any grilled entree. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 35 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 480mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
These cucumbers will help you cool off in the summer heat. The dill makes this dish even more flavorful.
15/50
Easy Peach Cobbler
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this peach cobbler recipe myself with a few tips from my mom and grandma. Because it's so quick and easy, it can be made in minutes to suit any occasion. I've used it as a breakfast fruit dish, a dinner dessert and a light snack. —Martha Betten, North Manchester, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 328 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 282mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (40g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
Peach cobbler is a classic dessert that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is quick and easy, so you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
16/50
Barbecued Chicken Salad Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
An impromptu picnic inspired this barbecue chicken salad. An instant summertime favorite, these dressed-up sandwiches have become a mainstay at our house. —Linda Orme, Battleground, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 481 calories, 27g fat (4g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 712mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
These sandwiches will be a major crowd-pleaser, especially on the Fourth of July. The barbecue sauce takes these dressed up sandwiches to the next level.
17/50
Caprese Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I love Caprese salad, but not the high prices we pay for it in restaurants. Here, we created our own version that tastes incredibly close to, if not better than, any restaurant version we've tried. —Melissa Pearson, Sandy, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 256 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
Caprese salad is always a good idea, but especially in the summertime. This salad is super quick and easy to make, so you’ll be able to go out and enjoy the festivities in no time.
18/50
Onion Rings
From the Recipe Creator:
We use this onion rings recipe as a burger topper to add an extra element to already fantastic burgers. These onion rings are also perfect for giving your salads a little crunch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 71 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
If you want to make a delightful kid-friendly snack for the Fourth of July, look no further than these crispy and savory onion rings.
19/50
Barbecue Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Is there a better place than Texas to find a fantastic barbecue sauce? That’s where this one is from—it’s my father-in-law’s own recipe. We have served it at many family reunions and think it’s the best! —Bobbie Morgan, Woodstock, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked chicken: 370 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein.
Economical, easy and so quick, barbecue chicken is a must at any backyard barbecue. All you need are broiler or fryer chickens—young chickens that are 3 to 4 pounds each—and your favorite barbecue sauce.
20/50
Sloppy Joe Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This simple casserole is an easy dinner for both you and the kids. Serve it with carrot and celery sticks for a fuss-free feast. You can also stir in some spicy brown mustard if the adults want a bit more zing. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 466 calories, 24g fat (9g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1332mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein.
This sloppy joe recipe will be a hit this year. It’s tasty, satisfying and surprisingly easy to make.
21/50
Grilled Jalapenos
From the Recipe Creator:
When barbecuing for friends at home, I also use the grill to serve up hot appetizers. These crowd-pleasing stuffed peppers have a bit of bite. They were concocted by my son. —Catherine Hollie, Cleveland, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 97 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
These stuffed peppers offer everyone a bit of heat. The jalapeños will make your taste buds go off like fireworks!
22/50
Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter Sara loves spicy Buffalo chicken and deviled eggs, so I combined the two. Make and chill these a day ahead so the flavors mingle. —Robin Spires, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed egg half: 85 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 111mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
If you love the spice from Buffalo sauce and tasty deviled eggs, this combination will blow your mind. Take this dish to a family barbecue or a Fourth of July gathering. It’s sure to be a hit.
23/50
Hot Dog Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
When our children were small and I was busy trying to get all those extra things done, I would make this quick hot dish. Kids love it! —JoAnn Gunio, Franklin, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 330 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 967mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
This hot dog casserole is an easy way to get your hot dog fix without the buns.
24/50
Lemon Artichoke Romaine Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this dish when I was trying to duplicate a very lemony Caesar salad. My version is not only delicious but more healthful too. —Kathy Armstrong, Post Falls, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 105 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
This salad is healthy, nutritious and truly delicious. The artichokes and addition of lemon make this dish refreshing and ideal for a Fourth of July cookout.
25/50
Southern Coleslaw
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother used to make this salad on holidays. With all the cabbage that is grown here, this coleslaw recipe is a real natural for us! —Deb Darr, Falls City, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 137 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
Coleslaw is a perfect way to cool down after inhaling all those burgers. This version is light and flavorful.
26/50
Beer Can Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll be proud to serve this stand-up chicken at any family gathering. Treated with a savory rub and then roasted over a beer can for added moisture, it’s so tasty you’ll want to call dibs on the leftovers! —Shirley Warren, Thiensville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
7 ounces cooked chicken: 415 calories, 25g fat (6g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 366mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 42g protein.
If you’re picturing a chicken perched atop an open beer can grilling over indirect heat, you’re exactly correct! This way of grilling chicken infuses the hoppy aroma of beer throughout the meat, while adding even more moisture to the bird so it’s extra juicy.
27/50
Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this recipe, and whenever I serve these tortilla roll-ups, people ask me for the recipe too! The cream cheese pinwheels can be made ahead of time and sliced just before serving, leaving you time for other last-minute party preparations. —Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 63 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
These cream cheese pinwheels are fun to make and fun to eat. If you’re looking for a finger food recipe, look no further than this one.
28/50
Russian Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This Russian potato salad recipe comes from my grandmother, who had written it down in Russian before she translated it for me when I was a teen. We made this every Easter or for any event when family and friends gathered together. —Gala McGaughey, Berryville, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 269 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein.
Nothing screams summer more than potato salad, and this recipe won’t disappoint. If you love pickled foods, this one’s for you.
29/50
Barley Corn Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
A terrific alternative to pasta salad, this colorful side dish adds refreshing herb flavor to corn, barley, and red and green peppers. Bring it to your next get-together and see how fast it disappears! —Mary Ann Kieffer of Lawrence, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 156 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 202mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Want something other than pasta or potato salad? This easy Fourth of July recipe is an excellent option.
30/50
Garden Chickpea Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a summer dish with a difference? Combine colorful crunchy veggies with soft feta cheese and good-for-you garbanzos. If you like, add sliced cooked chicken or lamb. —Sally Sibthorpe, Shelby Township, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 492 calories, 38g fat (6g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 619mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein.
Talk about easy. This is one of those throw-together salads that takes very minimal prep time. Just quickly toast the cumin seeds, then everything else comes together without any more heat needed.
31/50
Hawaiian Turkey Burgers
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I love to grill, so hamburgers are often on the menu. This recipe uses ground turkey instead of beef. Topped with pineapple slices, the burgers are moist and juicy. —Babette Watterson, Atglen, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 401 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat.
These turkey burgers won’t make you miss beef at all. The pineapple topping is the perfect summery addition.
32/50
Garden Tomato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
For as long as I can remember, Mom made a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. Now I make it whenever beautiful tomatoes are in reach. —Shannon Arthur, Upper Arlington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 92 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Summertime means an abundance of fresh tomatoes. Put them to good use and make this simple salad that everyone will love.
33/50
Creamy Pineapple Fluff Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Guests of all ages will gravitate to this traditional fluff salad, chock-full of pineapple, marshmallows and cherry bits. —Janice Hensley, Owingsville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 161 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Everyone will run to get their share of this fluff salad. The salad is creamy, fruity and perfect for your July Fourth plans.
34/50
Grilled Boneless Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is my favorite out of all my grilled pork chop recipes. I start preparing this entree the night before I plan to grill it.—Erica Svejda, Janesville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 328 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 358mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 44g protein.
This recipe is a great option for a Fourth of July gathering. You can’t go wrong grilling these pork chops on a hot summer day.
35/50
Grilled Angel Food Cake with Strawberries
From the Recipe Creator:
One night I goofed, accidentally using the balsamic butter I save for grilling chicken on my pound cake. What a delicious mistake that my entire family loved! For a patriotic look, add a drizzle of blueberry syrup. —Tammy Hathaway, Freeman Twp, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 cake slice with 1/4 cup strawberries (calculated without ice cream and syrup): 132 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 247mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Not only does this dish look patriotic for your July Fourth plans, but it’s incredibly addicting! The angel food cake and strawberries make a perfect summertime treat.
36/50
Mini S’mores
From the Recipe Creator:
Want to sink your teeth into s’mores all year long? Here’s the answer! Just combine marshmallow creme, chocolate and graham crackers for an awesome bite.—Stephanie Tewell, Elizabeth, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 145 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 66mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Want to sweeten up your table for July Fourth? Here’s the answer! Just combine marshmallow creme, chocolate and graham crackers for awesome s’mores that everyone of all ages will love.
37/50
Sweet Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
A sweet out-of-the-ordinary dressing makes this macaroni salad special. My aunt gave me the recipe and it has become one of my favorites. I occasionally leave out the green pepper if I know that people don't like it, and the salad still tastes great. —Idalee Scholz, Cocoa Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 400 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
This macaroni salad isn’t your ordinary salad. The dressing adds a unique sweetness to it. It’s safe to say your guests will keep running back for more.
38/50
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Need to take a dish to pass this weekend? This make-ahead strawberry pretzel salad will disappear quickly at any potluck. —Aldene Belch, Flint, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 295 calories, 15g fat (10g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 305mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
This is a quintessential Fourth of July treat that can be a delicious side or a fabulous dessert—either way, it’s almost too pretty to taste!
39/50
Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
The secret ingredient in this sassy sauce is the grape jelly. It's a sweet contrast with the chili sauce. —Irma Schnuelle, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 106 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 313mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
I know, these meatballs look super intricate, but the whole recipe uses only three ingredients: frozen meatballs, grape jelly and chili sauce. To make it even easier, prepare the recipe in the slow cooker.
40/50
Strawberry Arugula Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese may sound unusual, but one bite will win you over. —Carala Horne, Meridian, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 106 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 88mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese mixes together perfectly. This is the perfect summer salad that guests won’t be able to get enough of.
41/50
Strawberry Watermelon Lemonade
From the Recipe Creator:
The nutrition department at my local hospital inspired me to create this refreshing summer sipper. I tweaked their recipe slightly to create this drink full of sweet-tart flavor. —Dawn Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 119 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Lemonade is a summertime staple, but this recipe elevates it to a whole new level. It’s simple, refreshing and perfect for hot summer days.
42/50
Crispy Fried Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
This deep fried chicken recipe tastes just like KFC but can be made right in your own kitchen.
43/50
Summer Orzo
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m always looking for fun ways to use the fresh veggies that come in my Community Supported Agriculture box, and this summer orzo salad is one of my favorite creations. I like to improvise with whatever I have on hand, so feel free to do the same here! —Shayna Marmar, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 291 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 501mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.
If you are looking for a recipe that uses up fresh veggies, this orzo salad is perfect for that. It’s a true crowd-pleaser.
44/50
Fizzy Peach Shake
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe came about when I was a child living in peach country in Washington. There were fresh peaches everywhere, so my mom and I came up with this beverage. We called it a fizz because there's a bit of bubbling from the ginger ale. Add more ginger ale to make it thinner or more ice cream to make it thicker. —Teresa Jarnot, Monroe, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 237 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
Nothing says summer as much as fresh peaches. Quench your thirst with this fizzy shake—even kids will love it.
45/50
Buffalo Chicken Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
This is the best Buffalo chicken dip recipe! Whenever I bring Buffalo dip to a tailgate or potluck, everyone asks for the recipe. —Belinda J. Gibson, Dry Ridge, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 152 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 409mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
This chicken dip is great if you want to whip up something quick that everyone will love. It’s tasty and comforting, with a little bit of heat from the Buffalo sauce.
46/50
Mango Avocado Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
When serving a crowd, double or quadruple this guacamole. The onion, tomato and mango can be chopped in advance. Add the avocado just before serving. —Diana Nienberg, McComb, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chips and vegetables): 67 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 151mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
If you really aren’t into cooking, then don’t cook. This mango avocado salsa is all chopping and mixing. Just serve it in a pretty bowl with tortilla chips nearby.
47/50
Corn ‘n’ Cucumbers Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This cucumber corn salad was one of my mother's recipes and I think of her whenever I make it. It's a nice change from a regular cucumber salad. —Jean Moore, Pliny, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 54 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
Love cucumbers? Love corn? Throw ’em together in this cucumber and corn salad. It’s cool and refreshing for summer.
48/50
Grilled Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
These shrimp are great with steak. For a special occasion, you can also brush the sauce on lobster tails and grill them. —Sheryl Shenberger, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 201 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 168mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein.
Ready in under 30 minutes, this grilled shrimp recipe is easy and delicious. It pairs well with grilled meats like burgers and steaks.
49/50
Lemon Curd Tartlets
From the Recipe Creator:
This has been in my party recipe collection for over 30 years and never fails to satisfy my guests. I can always rely on these fancy treats to please even the fussiest in the crowd. —Jessica Feist, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 tartlet: 115 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 45mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Don’t get intimidated by the homemade lemon curd. It’s very easy to pull off, but if you’re hesitant, reach for a good premade lemon curd from the store, like Bonne Maman.
50/50
Quick Watermelon Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
On hot days, this sweet combo of watermelon, pineapple and fresh cilantro has everything you want. The flavors blend beautifully, it’s pretty, and it comes together in no time. —Betsy Hanson, Tiverton, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 23 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fruit.
This amazing combination has everything you could want in a summer dish. It’s also quick to prep, so you can go back to watching the fireworks.
Easy Fourth of July Recipes FAQ
What are some traditional Fourth of July food ideas?
Traditional Fourth of July food ideas are hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, pasta salads, grilled corn, barbecued ribs, kabobs and barbecued chicken.
What easy Fourth of July dishes can I make for dinner?
Easy Fourth of July dinner dishes include hamburgers, ribs, barbecued chicken, grilled shrimp and kabobs. Make sure you have lots of Fourth of July sides to complete the meal.
What easy Fourth of July recipes can I bring to a potluck?
Easy Fourth of July potluck recipes to feed a crowd include Kalua pork, coleslaw, salads, fruity pies, trifles, esquites, homemade veggie burgers, salsas, homemade guacamole and a few bags of the best potato chips.
Lucy Wang
Lucy is a first-generation Asian American mom and influencer who loves creating fun, approachable recipes.
