July 4th Menu Planner

Stay relaxed while you celebrate our nation's independence with some easy cookout ideas. When it's time to eat, remember to say "thank you" to all who have sacrificed for our freedom. We have put together a list of our favorite 4th of July recipes. We hope they will become your favorites as well!

It's too hot to cook inside, so fire up that grill:

• Smoked Brisket
• Smokey Spareribs
• Succulent Pulled Pork
• Spicy Rubs
• Homemade Barbecue Sauce
• Cornell Chicken
• Roasted Oysters on the Grill
• Grilled Chili-lime Corn
• Grilled Vegetables

And these chilled sides are excellent accompaniments that can be made ahead:

• Orzo Caper Salad
• No-Mayo Potato Salad
• Pickled Cucumber Salad
• Minted Eggplant Salad
• Fava Beans with Mint and Parmesan
• Spicy Jalapeno Basil Coleslaw

And what summer party is complete without a frozen dessert?

• Strawberry Gelato
• Buttermilk Sherbet
• Cantaloupe Sorbet 

Lastly, don’t forget something to keep the kids from underfoot and away from the fiery grill. Yard games of bocce, corn hole or horseshoes are always popular and you can NEVER go wrong with bubbles. Try our mixture for the Ultimate Bubble Elixir and get ready for the squeals of delight!

Be safe and enjoy a safe and well deserved three-day weekend! And, don’t forget to designate a driver or enjoy the night air by walking home when possible.