Happy Friday, all!

While tomorrow is Independence Day, most people are given today off work to observe the holiday. We all know that this holiday is usually spent with friends and family, boozing, grilling, and firework-ing. I think cookouts have become sort of repetitive, however. You know, grilled hamburgers, hot dogs or brats, with beans, coleslaw, and a Yuengling. Womp womp. Been there, done that. Let’s get creative and impress our friends, shall we? I’ve compiled some of the tastiest and unique Fourth-of-July-Friendly recipes from my favorite bloggers below!

1. Red, White and Blueberry Trifle by Skinnytaste

Not only is this recipe super easy, but look how beautiful it is! You can definitely feed (and satisfy) a crowd with this sweet and light dessert. Similar to my Patriotic Vanilla Cake, this recipe uses whipped topping as part of the filling. I love this because, in my opinion, cake frosting can get way too sweet and rich! All I want to do is stick a giant spoon in this trifle and dig in!

2. Goat Cheese, Beet Noodle and Cherry Salad by Inspiralized

Although this salad isn’t exactly red, white and blue, it’s still a great option to accompany your grilled burgers or dogs. I am drooling just looking at the combination of goat cheese and sweet beets, cherries and walnuts. Ali does it again!

3. Cherry Watermelon Limeade by In It for the Long Run

Store-bought lemonade is more often than not full of unnecessary sugar and preservatives. Why not transform your usual lemonade by using limes, watermelon and cherries? Georgie utilized beautiful summer fruits to create the perfect, refreshing 4th of July cookout drink. You could even add a little booze if you’re into that sorta thing…

4. Grilled Pizza by Gimme Some Oven

We are so used to using the grill for meats and veggies, it’s time to switch it up. Ali of Gimme Some Oven utilized her grill to make flavorful pizzas and has shared her best tips for doing so! Even though pizza was born in Naples, Italy, there’s no harm in celebrating American Independence Day with a crunchy pizza pie.

5. Faux Smoked Slow Roasted Pulled Pork by Local Milk

First of all, this recipe also contains blackberry BBQ sauce. I am now daydreaming about this meal. It’s so refreshing, to me, to attend a dinner party of Summer BBQ and see the host making something other than what’s usual and expected. Roast pork is something I grew up enjoying (#cuban) and absolutely love. This recipe, mouth-watering.

Your turn:
What does your family usually cook when friends and loved ones are visiting?
What’s your favorite cookout cocktail?