Fourth of July Recipe Round-up!

Can you believe it is almost the Fourth of July?! For me, July 4th is really the official kick-off to summer. We are hot, we are sweaty, and we want to spend long days on the beach or by the pool with a cocktail in hand! Whether you are hosting or heading to a cook-out, spending the day on a boat or a beach, or just want something delicious to eat this weekend, I have rounded up some winning recipes below. Add one, two or a few to your menu! 

Mains

Chicken Caesar Sandwiches with Dill Potato Salad

These delicious sammies are a perfect picnic treat! Grill up some chicken breasts, assemble, and pack your cooler for a (delicious) day in the sun!

Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Cole Slaw

When it's too hot to put on the stove, oven, or grill, don't forget about your trusty slow-cooker! Pulled pork is a true crowd pleaser and serves a ton! Let everyone make up their own plates by putting out a spread of seeded buns, coleslaw, pickles, banana peppers, and extra BBQ sauce.

Grilled Salmon with Coconut Lime Rice and Mango Pico

This is a tropical paradise on a plate, and a lighter alternative for your grill. Mangoes are sweet and juicy this time of year - the perfect side dish! Make extra and serve with tortilla chips. 

Salads and Sides

Fresh Corn and Pesto Salad

This is a perennial favorite here on Gas Stove Girl. Sweet summer corn, salty tangy pesto, crunchy peppers and juicy tomatoes - my mouth is watering just thinking about it! Perfect for any outdoor buffet table.

Watermelon, Spinach and Feta Salad

If you've never had watermelon and feta in the same dish, you are missing out! This classy and pretty little salad is as refreshing as it is tasty. Hosting a dinner party al fresco? I have your first course right here!

Creamy White Bean Dip

This is hummus' lesser known but more deliciously creamy older brother. Pack this dip with all the fresh herbs you can get your hands on, serve with homemade foccaccia bread or pita chips, and watch it disappear! 

Spicy Taco Layer Dip

I have a saying that pretty much goes: anything that starts with cream cheese and ends with melted, oozing cheddar cheese is the way to a man's heart. Bring this along to a backyard BBQ, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes, whip up a batch of margaritas and be the real MVP.

Spinach and Artichoke Hummus Dip

Dunk anything and everything you can get your hands on in this dip! Two universally loved dips come together in amazing harmony. Best for those who can't decide between two of their favorite things!

Dessert

Firework Cookies

It does not get any more patriotic than this! Just look at these amazing, beautiful cookies that you can make from scratch! Sure, they make require a bit of prep work, but they are guaranteed to be the biggest hit no matter where you serve 'em.

Lemon Bars

I could eat Lemon Bars all day, every day. They allow us to highlight one of summers best fruits - lemons! Plop a few blueberries or raspberries into the custard for a delightfully patriotic twist on an old classic. Salty shortbread, gooey lemon custard, a lovely dusting of powdered sugar - there's a reason this dessert has stood the test of time!

Pink Lemonade Cupcakes

Pink Lemonade is a quintessential summer beverage, so why not delight children and adults alike by putting this tangy sweet treat into a cupcake?! Precious decorations absolutely required!

A Cocktail, for good measure

Raspberry Gin Fizz

Serve a crowd with this fruit packed, boozy creation! Gin, raspberry liqueur, and champagne get the party started. Fill this pitcher with any delicious fruit you can get your hands on, and drink responsibly!