Fourth of July Meals That Will Put Dad’s Cooking To Shame

The Fourth of July as a holiday has a tendency to be destined for greatness or to kind of blow. If you’re looking to have a good one, the most important start is to find out what you’re going to make in order to sate that good ole American hunger in a non-burnt hot dog kind of way.

1. Vegetable Skewers

Simple, fun, and easy to make. Don’t let your fear of trying to grill things keep you from encroaching on Dad’s domain. Mom is always encouraging all of you to eat more healthy anyways, why not try it out by popping some veggies on a stick, dousing them in spice, and sitting back so you can wait to profit. The credit you receive alone will make attempting to grill anything absolutely worth it. Additionally, adding some pickle juice to these snacks as they simmer can make for a whole other world of flavor.

2. Shrimp Kabobs

Another kabob dish? Sure, why not! Kabobs are an easy way to say “Hey, I understand that it’s the Fourth of July and I need to grill, but I also want to have fun and make a memorable time out of it!” Getting bored of slathering mustard on hamburger buns can lead to thinking about other things, such as how much you genuinely enjoy seafood. Why don’t you eat more seafood? If you don’t grow up eating it all the time, it’s harder to get into. Now that you’re older and you have time to experiment, it doesn’t really matter whether you grew up with it or not. Make it yours by making it in your own way.

3. Grilled Eggplant

Alright, nobody says they like eggplants in front of a judgemental group of veggie-haters, but like many types of greens, they actually taste really good when you grill them. Slice up some fresh eggplant, pop those suckers on the grill with some tomato and lemon juice on top and bam, a delicious and healthy meal that smells good enough to die for. It’s all in the presentation when it comes to the haters, get out a clean plate and don’t let the liquid drip when you’re laying each of the slices out. Lay a fork off to the side for maximum enjoyment and Bon Appetite, a meal fit for kings. Those eggplants sure weren’t anything dad was planning to serve, anyways.

4. Spinach Ravioli

If there’s one thing you can definitely beat Dad at, it’s boiling up some well-cooked spinach ravioli. Typically, pasta would be considered too heavy for a Fourth of July meal. This is why adding herbs, as well as serving in smaller portion sizes, is essential to the dish. Consider cooking in some egg or pork in order to add some protein to the meal. This dish is better served warm or chilled, NOT hot (cause what’s worse than having to blow on some food to cool it off on a hot summer day?). Adding crushed pecan nuts will enrich the flavor and texture, especially if you’re serving this dish chilled.

5. Cheese Tortellini

Another pasta dish to keep your guests on their toes. This one should be served warm, with a protective covering if outside to protect it from any pool water or bugs. Mushroom and sage go great with this tasty and filling treat, most of all if you grill them or boil them and use the broth to boil the pasta so it absorbs the flavor. If you’re into lemon or lime, be sure to try using the juice as flavoring, and if anyone from your squad loves spicy food then this could be the dish to spice it up.

Clean those pans, get those grills revved on, it’s time to try out some flavors and make a delightful meal for friends and family to enjoy!

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