The Fourth of July is always a great excuse to bust out the grill and make some delicious food and drinks to celebrate with friends. I thought I’d compile a few great menu ideas so you can plan a great party next week!
If you end up trying any of these items, be sure to tag me in a photo @crunchtimekitchen!
Appetizers that Always Hit
Here are a few appetizers that just work for the fourth! Gotta have some dips!
Perfect Steamed Shrimp
What’s better than some newspaper spread out with piles of perfect steamed shrimp? A great way to kick off a Fourth of July party!
Grilled Watermelon Salad
Watermelon on the grill?! Yes! It makes it sweeter and somehow juicier! Pair it with arugula, mint, and feta and you have one great summer salad.
Shrimp Jalapeno Poppers
Poppers are the ultimate summer appetizer for me. You can do them on the grill or in the oven. This shrimp version was my Dad’s favorite appetizer and I still love making them!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
An updated twist on jalapeno poppers! This wonton version feels pretty darn classy but is really easy to make. Plus I love how they are easy to share and eat while you are walking around.
Easy Grilled Salsa
Basically any time I’m firing up the grill, I’m also looking to toss on some ingredients for salsa. This grilled salsa is great warm, but also stores really well and has a wonderful, slightly smokey, flavor.
Mains for the Fourth!
Let’s talk stars of the show!
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
These skewers were a huge hit at house Crunch Time! Marinaded in homemade teriyaki sauce, they are delicious on the grill and perfect on rice or on a flatbread.
Cheese Blanket Hot Dogs
These are kind of a fun twist on the classic hot dog. Kids love them and there’s not much better than crispy cheese!
Green Goddess Burgers
These are kind of my dream burger in the summer. Meaty, but also somehow light! Loaded with guacamole and spinach and a light yogurt dressing. So good on a hot day!
Grill a Whole Fish!
This is kind of a showstopper of a main dish. If you are feeling ambitious though, grilling a whole fish is a wonderful way to feed a crew of people relatively fast. Grill’em up!
Grilled Halloumi Skewers
This happens to be the June cooking challenge this month (reminder!) but it would also be a great Fourth of July Main dish if you are feeding vegetarians. Easy to make and you can customize with almost any veggie!
What are you cooking for the Fourth this year!
Leave me a comment!
Excellent assortment of holiday yummies, not too complicated or expensive to make and enjoy. Thanks and Happy 4th !!!