July 4th BBQ Ideas

I’m so last-minute when it comes to holiday planning.  My kids are super excited for the 4th of July this year.  They know it means swimming with the cousins, tasty food and fireworks.  (We are a family of certified pyrotechicians, so fireworks are usually extra special.)  But I haven’t really thought much about what to make for our BBQ.  Can’t we just do PB&J this year?

Nah.  That wouldn’t be as fun, right?  I’ve thrown together a quick list of family favorites and ideas I’ve had kicking around over the past few days–including some slow-cooker recipes in case you don’t want to worry about grilling or want something to take along to the park or beach.

Burgers, Sandwiches and Main Dishes:
*Gorgonzola Stuffed Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Drizzle (my hubby is still talking about this)
*Homemade Buns or Rolls
*Greek Burgers–lamb or beef patties, topped with thin slices of cucumbers, tomatoes, onion. Maybe a crumble of feta cheese. Bun slathered with tzatziki.
*Aunt Khali’s BBQ Beef (slow cooker, the best ever)
*Slow Cooker Country Pork Ribs
*Cilantro Citrus Chicken (this is one of the most popular recipes on Cafe Johnsonia!)
*Quinoa Soft Tacos (vegan, gluten-free)
*Easy Shrimp Skewers

Salads and Sides:
*Homemade Ranch Dressing
*Mixed Greens Salad with Strawberries, Avocado and Candied Pecans
*Quinoa Salad with Spinach, Parsley, and Spring Onions
*Baked Zucchini Wedges
*(No Mayo) Waldorf Salad on Mixed Greens (this is so good)
*Warm Potato Salad with Sausage, Apples and Mustard-Shallot Dressing
*White Bean, Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Salad (vegetarian)
*Pasta with Arugula, Tomatoes and Feta (vegetarian)
*BBQ Baked Beans (slow cooker)
*Chickpea Salad (vegan, gluten-free)

Desserts:
*Red, White and Blue Trifle
*Strawberry Pavlova Cake (gluten-free, I think this is what we’re making–adding some blueberries too)
*Frozen Lemon Mascarpone Cheesecake
*Lemon Bars
*Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream with Butterscotch Blondies or Chocolate Chip Cookies 
*Summer Fruit Johnny Cake Cobler
*S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches
*Coconut-Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies (vegan, gluten-free)

Beverages:
*Lavender Limeade
*Shirley Temple Floats
*Watermelon Otai (a family favorite for any gathering–our family recipe is slightly different)

What are you having to celebrate the 4th of July?