4th of July Recipes

For many people, the 4th of July is a time to reflect on the country's history, appreciate the freedoms that Americans enjoy, and honor those who have served and sacrificed to protect those freedoms. It's also a day to come together as a community and celebrate what makes the country great.

Whether you're spending the day with loved ones, hosting a BBQ, or watching fireworks, there's something special about the 4th of July that brings people together. So, take a moment to appreciate the meaning behind this important holiday and enjoy the festivities with your friends and family.

Happy 4th of July!

1. Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into chunks

• 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into chunks

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

2. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers.

3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Guacamole with Veggie Chips:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted

• 1 small tomato, diced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sliced veggies (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers) for dipping

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork.

2. Stir in the tomato, cilantro, and lime juice.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve the guacamole with sliced veggies for dipping.

Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad:

• 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1 pint blueberries

• 2 bananas, sliced

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, and bananas.

2. Drizzle with honey and lime juice.

3. Toss to combine and serve chilled.

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon

• 1 large cucumber, sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon honey

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, and mint.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon salad and toss to combine.

4. Serve chilled.