Holidays
A Revolutionary Fourth of July Menu
“Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, oer the land of the free and the home of the brave?” It sure does. And there’s no better time to set aside our political divisions than the Fourth of July, one of America’s most beloved holidays. It’s the perfect time to fire up your grill and create a momentous meal, one that celebrates the anniversary of our independence. From cocktails to dessert, we’ve got you covered!
Fourth of July Menu
Grilled Strawberry Shortcake
This dessert perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors for a unique summer treat. Ideal for outdoor gatherings or as a special finish to your barbecue, this grilled strawberry shortcake is sure to impress your guests with its simple elegance and irresistible taste.
RED, WHITE, AND BLUE SANGRIA
Use our recipe for Sangria for Grown-Ups. Change Lambrusco to Prosecco. Add a garnish of blueberries, halved white grapes, and fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries.
Cousin Dave’s Chocolate Chipotle Ribs
Steven’s cousin, an anthropologist, is also a talented barbecuer. One of our favorite recipes is one he developed for Steven’s book, Best Ribs Ever. Pork ribs are marinated in a sauce that mimics a Mexican mole, then grilled to perfection.
Red, White, And Blue Potato Salad
Many supermarkets carry red, white, and blue fingerling potatoes these days, but if you can’t find them, everyday full-size red- or white-skinned potatoes will taste just as good.
Beer-Can Chicken
Okay, here it is. The master recipe for the ur-beer-can chicken, the showstopper that will dazzle your family and friends. If you’ve never made beer can chicken before, start here, and once you’ve mastered the basic procedure, there’s no limit to its variations.
Grilled Watermelon Salad with Arugula and Queso Fresco
Watermelon has long brought a barbecue to a joyful conclusion. You’re about to integrate it into your meal more fully: by turning it into a grilled salad. Picture the same moist crunch, the same refreshing sweetness. But grilling adds caramel (burnt sugar) overtones and a smoky element—especially when done over a wood or wood-enhanced fire. Queso fresco brings in a salty note that has an uncanny way of heightening a watermelon’s sweetness. More riotous flavor comes from a ginger-lime dressing, fresh mint, and candied nuts.
Summer Salmon with a Bunch of Basil
Grilled salmon is a summer tradition at our house, especially after we’ve been to our local farmers’ market in Edgartown, on Martha’s Vineyard. We buy bunches—no, veritable bouquets—of fragrant, fresh summer basil. Think of the marinade here as pesto without the pine nuts and cheese. Long on flavor, short on preparation time, a vivid study in emerald green and salmon pink, this is a perfect fish dish for when basil is in season.
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