1. Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 80/20 ground beef
- Salt & pepper
- American cheese
- Brioche buns
- Pickles, onion, sauces (optional)
Preparation:
First, generously season the ribs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. After that, wrap them tightly in foil to keep them moist. Next, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 2.5 hours, or if you prefer, cook them on a grill using indirect heat. Once the ribs are tender, carefully unwrap them and brush on a generous amount of BBQ sauce. Finally, return them to the oven or grill for 10 more minutes so the glaze caramelizes perfectly.
2. BBQ Ribs
Ingredients:
- Pork ribs
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder
- BBQ sauce
Preparation:
First, pat the ribs dry with a paper towel. Then, generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. After that, wrap the ribs tightly in foil to help them retain moisture. Next, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) and bake for about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can cook them on a grill using indirect heat. Once the ribs are tender, carefully unwrap them and brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce. Afterward, return them to the oven or grill for an additional 10 minutes so the sauce can caramelize. Finally, let them rest briefly before slicing and serving.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob (Elote Style)
Ingredients:
- Corn on the cob
- Mayonnaise
- Grated cheese (cotija, Parmesan, or feta)
- Lime
- Chili powder or paprika
- Salt
Preparation:
Start by grilling the corn on the cob over medium heat until it becomes golden and slightly charred. Meanwhile, prepare the toppings. Once the corn is ready, spread each piece with a layer of mayonnaise. Then, sprinkle grated cheese generously over the surface. After that, add chili powder or paprika, and a pinch of salt. Finally, squeeze fresh lime juice on top for a tangy finish.
4. Hot Dogs with Toppings Bar
Ingredients:
- Hot dog sausages
- Buns
- Assorted toppings: pickles, onions, jalapeños, bacon, sauces
Preparation:
To start, grill the hot dog sausages over medium heat until they are fully cooked and nicely browned. While the sausages are cooking, set up a toppings station with a variety of ingredients such as pickles, onions, jalapeños, bacon, and sauces. Once the sausages are ready, place them inside warm buns. Then, invite everyone to build their own custom hot dog by adding their favorite toppings. Finally, serve immediately and enjoy while hot.
🥗 Fresh Summer Sides
5. Classic Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- Boiled potatoes, cubed
- Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Mayonnaise & mustard
- Celery & red onion
- Salt & pepper
Preparation:
First, place all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Then, mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Afterward, season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
6. Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- Cubed watermelon
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt & pepper
Preparation:
Combine watermelon, feta, and mint in a serving bowl. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season lightly with salt and pepper. Serve chilled.
7. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Ingredients:
- Cooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Chopped bell pepper, onion, and cucumber
- Mozzarella cubes
- Italian dressing
Preparation:
In a large bowl, mix the pasta with vegetables and cheese. Toss with Italian dressing and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
8. Coleslaw
Ingredients:
- Shredded cabbage (green and purple)
- Shredded carrot
- Mayonnaise
- Vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until the cabbage is coated. Adjust seasoning and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
🍹 Refreshing Drinks
9. Patriotic Sangria
Ingredients:
- White wine
- Triple sec or white rum
- Sliced strawberries
- Blueberries
- Diced apples
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Ice
Preparation:
In a large pitcher, mix the wine, liquor, and fruits. Chill for at least 2 hours. Serve over ice and top with soda for extra fizz.
10. Lemonade Bar
Ingredients:
- Fresh lemon juice
- Water
- Sugar or sweetener
- Optional add-ins: strawberries, raspberries, mango, mint, basil
- Optional alcohol: rum or vodka
Preparation:
Prepare a classic lemonade base and offer fruit and herb add-ins separately so guests can customize. You can also provide an alcoholic version in a separate pitcher.
11. Red, White & Blue Slushies
Ingredients:
- Colored drinks (e.g., red sports drink, coconut water, blue sports drink)
- Crushed ice
Preparation:
Crush ice and divide into three portions. Mix each with a different drink color. Layer red, white, and blue ice in clear cups. Serve immediately with a straw.
🍓 Desserts Everyone Loves
12. Flag Cake
Ingredients:
- White cake (boxed or homemade)
- Whipped cream or vanilla frosting
- Strawberries, sliced
- Blueberries
Preparation:
Begin by baking the white cake in a rectangular pan and letting it cool completely. Once cooled, spread a layer of whipped cream or vanilla frosting over the top. Next, decorate the cake using blueberries in the corner to represent stars, and sliced strawberries in horizontal rows to mimic the stripes of the American flag.
13. Mini Cheesecakes
Ingredients:
- Crushed cookie base (graham or vanilla)
- Cream cheese, sugar, and egg filling
- Strawberries and blueberries
Preparation:
Press the cookie base into mini molds, add the cheesecake filling, and bake or chill according to your recipe. Top with red and blue berries before serving.
14. Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- Fresh peaches, halved
- Brown sugar (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream
Preparation:
Grill the peach halves until caramelized and tender. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
15. S’mores Dip
Ingredients:
- Chocolate chips or chunks
- Large marshmallows
- Cookies or graham crackers for dipping
Preparation:
Place the chocolate in an oven-safe dish, top with marshmallows, and bake until melted and golden. Serve hot with cookies for dipping.
Find tools & decor in our link → Must-Have
