News: 5 Red, White & Blue Foods That Are Perfect for Fourth of July

Independence Day is right around the corner, and that means three things: fireworks, cold beer, and great food. I always love to cook festive foods for the Fourth of July, and I don't just mean the classics, like grilled chicken and brats. I mean foods that celebrate the Stars and Stripes: foods that are red, white, and blue.

In my opinion, having some aptly colored dishes can add something special to America's birthday party. Plus, it's a great way to impress your friends and show some patriotic pride. Here are my five favorite red, white, and blue meals to celebrate this Fourth of July.

1. Berry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake has always been one of my favorite desserts. The whipped cream makes it feel rich and delicious, the berries add freshness, and it's incredibly easy to make. All you have to do is add a few blueberries to your strawberry shortcake, and you have a simple but perfect dessert.

2. Colored Cupcakes

Cupcakes are the ultimate party dessert, so this is my go-to when I have a lot of people over for Independence Day. Thankfully, they're tremendously easy to make. Start by making basic vanilla cupcake batter , and then divide it into two bowls. Add red food coloring to one, and blue coloring to the other.

Then bake your cupcakes, and let them cool.

When the cupcakes are fully cooled, cut them in half horizontally. Make a simple white frosting or butter cream frosting, spread it across the bottom halves, and then put an opposite colored half on top.

If you want something easier, you can just divide the batter into three batches and leave one uncolored. Then skip the bisecting stage and just serve a platter of red, white, and blue cupcakes.

3. Parfait

A patriotic parfait is the perfect way to start your Fourth of July. All you have to do is put alternating layers of raspberries or strawberries (or jam), blueberries or blackberries (or jam), and yogurt in a glass. Healthy, delicious, and colored just like the flag.

4. Hot Dog & Potato Salad

If you want a traditional Fourth of July dish that also is thematically colored, you can do so with a hot dog and potato salad. Use the hot dog for your red and white by alternating mayonnaise and ketchup across the bun. Then use the potato salad for your blue by cooking purple potatoes, which turn a deep purple-blue when cooked, and then proceed to make your favorite potato salad recipe. I love to plate these foods for my guests at Fourth of July parties, as it takes them by surprise when they see the colors on the plate.

5. American Flag Cake

If you really want to impress your friends this Fourth of July, look no further than this amazing American flag cake. It takes some time—you have to layer different colors, and the final tier is tricky—but it's worth it if you want a real show stopper.

What are your go-to Fourth of July foods?

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