It is crunch time people! Time to start rolling out those last-minute ideas for Fourth of July parties and family get-togethers and most importantly — the menu. Typically, the red, white and blue holiday is associated with old-fashioned fare and barbeque, but who said traditional was the only way?
Whether you’re firing up the grill or cooking indoors this year, any foodie can create a memorable experience with delectable fare for your family and friends with minimal time and effort. Wise in the ways of cooking and pleasing guests, here are a few tips to help your Fourth of July get-together sizzle.
Grilling is a great option when cooking for a large or even small group of people. While the go-to backyard summer party foods are, of course, hamburgers and hotdogs (or sausages), that doesn’t mean they’re the only option. For the vegetarian, offer the option to have a veggie or black bean burger.
And of course—what’s a meal without the option of a side?
From the healthy options of fruit and vegetables, to the pasta salads, cold salads and mini anything, there is never a shortage of ideas to make your Fourth of July get-together unique.
For the veggie-lovers, try roasting or sautéing your favorite seasonal vegetables for a light side dish option. Say no to traditional fruit salad and instead opt to take the fruit to the grill. And how about making your own potato chips with sweet or regular potatoes? It takes minimal time and is a healthy alternative to the store-bought kind. Finally, whip together your favorite pasta dish or pasta salad to round out your side options.
Don’t know what recipe to choose? This macaroni n’ cheese recipe from The Range Steakhouse at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort is delicious and easy to re-create at home.
Recipe for Macaroni n’ Cheese
Place Velveeta cheese in a sauté pan and begin to melt down over medium heat. Once cheese is half melted, add cream and whisk together. Once fully incorporated, add cooked pasta to mix, season with salt and pepper and heat through. Once heated, add parmesan cheese and parsley. Remove from sauté pan and pour into cast iron skillet. Combine panko bread crumbs, chives and salt and pepper and add to the top of the finished mac & cheese. Place under broiler until golden brown.
Ingredients:
- 3oz. Velveeta Cheese
- 1oz. Parmesan Cheese
- 2 TBL Panko Breadcrumbs
- 2 tsp. Olive Oil
- ½ tsp. Chopped Chive
- 1.5oz. Heavy Cream
- 6oz. Cooked Pasta
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- ½ tsp. Chopped Parsley
Now that you have your holiday menu planned, there’s nothing left to do but to go out, enjoy the red, white and blue festivities and make yours the party to be envied!
