Some holidays just seem to be more special than others, and the Fourth of July definitely falls into the special category. Most of us have vivid memories of Fourth of July picnics and parties studded with firecrackers, sliced watermelon, potato salad, hamburgers, sunshine, and sparklers. This menu tries to capture all of those feelings in a nice neat package that will help keep all those great memories of the Fourth of July alive year after year.

All of the recipes either require very little active preparation time, or can be prepared ahead of time. Most fall into both categories. Most of the food also transports very well should you be taking your Fourth of July celebration on the road, or if you need a dish to bring to an occasion to pass. This a great menu to rely on all summer long for picnics, camping, potlucks, and other fun summer events. The hot main dishes are easy to prepare over an open fire or on a charcoal grill at a park or other public place.

The Menu

Red, White, and Blue Canapés
Curried Deviled Eggs
Pina Colada Punch
Blue Lemonade
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
Favorite Lamb Burgers
Brie and Burgundy Burgers
Cran-Orange Bulgur Salad
Minted Cucumber Salad
Bacon & Brown Sugar Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Patriotic Tossed Salad
Perfect Potato Salad
Simple Blackberry Sorbet
Red, White, and Blue Ice Cream Pie