Fourth of July weekend is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to host family and friends for a chill celebration. No celebration is complete without a theme and bomb food. Make your Independence Day bash truly memorable with a spread of dishes from yummy appetizers to mouth-watering main courses and decadent desserts.

Here are the dishes you’ll need to elevate your Fourth of July shindig that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Patriotic Appetizers

Caprese Skewers

These colorful and light skewers are a hit at any party. Simply thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto wooden sticks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a refreshing and easy-to-eat summer appetizer.

Guacamole and Veggie Platter

There’s nothing quite like homemade guacamole at a summer gathering. Add a special Fourth of July twist by arranging red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, and blue corn tortilla chips around the guacamole.

Mouth-Watering Main Courses

Grilled BBQ Chicken

Marinate chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce and grill them to perfection. For a vegetarian or vegan option, try BBQ portobello mushrooms. Serve them with grilled corn on the cob and a side of coleslaw.

Vegan Black Bean Burgers

These hearty burgers are packed with flavor; even your meat-eating guests will love them. Mix black beans, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices, then form into patties and grill. Serve on gluten-free buns with lettuce, tomato, and avocado slices to make it completely gluten-free.

Summertime Desserts

Patriotic Fruit Salad

Combine blueberries, strawberries, and diced watermelon for a red, white, and blue fruit salad. Add a touch of mint and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors. This refreshing dessert is naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Flag-Themed Cupcakes

Bake a batch of your favorite cupcakes and decorate them with red, white, and blue frosting. Use fresh berries to create a flag design on top. These festive treats will be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Cool Beverages

Sparkling Lemonade

Make a large pitcher of sparkling lemonade by mixing lemonade with sparkling water. Add fresh raspberries and mint leaves for a festive touch. This refreshing drink is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.

Red, White, and Blue Mocktails

Layer cranberry juice, coconut water, and blueberry juice in clear glasses for a colorful, non-alcoholic drink. Garnish with a skewer of berries for a fun and healthy beverage option.

Presentation Tips

To keep your Independence Day spread on theme, use patriotic-themed tableware and decorations. Red, white, and blue napkins, plates, and utensils will tie everything together. Arrange your dishes on a large table with plenty of space for guests to serve themselves.