We have just a few days until the 4th of July and most of us are experiencing hot weather. It has actually been overcast and drizzling the last few days here in Oregon, but our weather forecast for the 4th is somewhat promising. Regardless, the celebrations will go on! But the question is, what can you make that is both delicious and nourishing?
Here are a couple of ideas for both at-home celebrations or to bring along to a party.
Naturally Sweetened Sweets
Sourdough Chocolate Cake: This is a favorite cake, as it is moist, deep in flavor and makes more than enough to share.
Old-Fashioned Caramel Corn: This easy recipe is always a hit at parties. It is both “snack-y” and sweet at the same time.
Chocolate Banana Freezer Cake: This ice-y treat is perfect for hot weather.
Red, White, and Blue Cupcakes: These coconut-flour cupcakes were created for a Fourth of July celebration along with my then young daughter.
Strawberry Fool: A rich, delicious treat that is super fast to make. You could make it with any berry you like!
Homemade Marshmallows: Why not cut these out in star shapes?
Fruit Gelatin: You won’t miss Jello with this delicious fruit-juice version.
Salads:
Avocado, Apple and Cilantro Salad: This is a refreshing salad. Since apple isn’t in season right now, why not trade it out for another fruit?
Thai Salad: Spicy and flavorful
Mexican Quinoa Salad: A household favorite
Persian Watermelon Rose Salad: A twist using old-fashioned flavors
Summer Kale Salad: A hearty and simple dish
Beverages:
Cold Brew Coffee: This do ahead coffee is perfect for bringing along or serving to guests.
Iced Chamomile Lavender Tea: Refreshing, floral goodness
Now, I just need to figure out what to personally make this year! What are your plans?
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For breakfast I’m re-creating something I saw online – stars & stripes toast! Toasted bread topped with cream cheese, raspberry preserves, bananas, and blueberries. The berries are the stars and cut-up banana alternating with the preserves are the stripes. I never do “cutesy” things like this, but it looks easy and fun! The rest of the day my in-laws are in charge, so I’m not sure what we’ll have.
What a sweet idea! Thanks for sharing it. 🙂
Will be making a fruit tray in red/white/blue, some sort of grain free baked good with strawberries/blueberries/coconut butter, and BBQ!! Cross our fingers for some real summer weather…my plants are pretty happy, but I am OVER this rain we have been having!
Thanks for sharing Kimi! I am excited to try the caramel corn and the quinoa salad! Yum, yum! We are going berry picking the morning of the 4th, so I am sure we will make something with those!
We’ll be doing fairly standard barbecue fare, but I’ll be making my own condiments to top the burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken. I’ve just posted recipes for real food versions of Heinz ketchup, French’s mustard, a gourmet mayonnaise, a bold and smoky barbecue sauce, and a sweet pickle relish on my own blog.
http://www.nourishingjoy.com/healthy-condiments-for-the-fourth-of-july/
Thanks for all the great ideas you’ve posted, Kimi. Now I just need to decide on a salad – you’ve got so many good ones here and in your book!
I was just reading about healthy hot dogs from applegatefarms.com and found some at my local grocery store! I was so excited about that because you *HAVE to have hot dogs on July 4th but I can’t stand the thought of all the cancer-causing junk.
I love all the recipes except for Avocado, Apple and Cilantro Salad. I don’t like the combination and I don’t think it taste good.Anyway, thank for sharing.
You know, I thought I’d hate the combination as well. But I really enjoyed it. 😉