15 Recipes to Make for a July 4th Potluck
Whether you're bringing a side, dessert or the main event, we found the perfect potluck recipes for this summer holiday.
The July 4th holiday calls for lots of potluck celebrations. Here are some helpful tips and healthy recipes for whichever part of the meal you’re assigned to bring.
Food Safety Tips for July 4th Potluck Dishes
Always keep time and temperature in mind. If food sits out over 2 hours at room temperature it can potentially make folks sick. Food should travel in the air conditioned area of your car and not in a hot trunk or roof. High-risk foods like tuna salad, sliced fruit or raw meats should be kept on ice, especially if you're traveling an hour or more.
Raw meats and poultry should be kept in a separate cooler from any ready-to-eat foods (like salads). Separate utensils and platters should be packed to avoid cross-contamination.
Jicama and Watermelon Salad (pictured above)
A potluck dream! No lettuce means this salad won’t get soggy. A base of crunchy and sweet watermelon and jicama will help keep guest hydrated; add some crumbled feta for a salty bite.
Renee Comet
It’s not a party without the guac! This crowd-pleaser is always a hit.
Stephen Johnson, 2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
Roasted eggplant spiked with tahini, garlic and lemon is incredibly flavorful and highly recommended with pita chips for dipping.
Matt Armendariz, 2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
Homemade hummus is shockingly easy to make and so much more flavorful than store-bought. This version packs plenty of spice from jalapenos and dried chilies. Serve with crunchy carrot sticks.
Tara Donne
A potluck classic made a little bit healthier with properly portioned dressing and plenty of fresh veggies.
Matt Armendariz, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
This mayo-less coleslaw is spiked with plenty of spice and citrus. It’s perfect served with pulled pork and ribs.
Grain salads are a perfect picnic side to enjoy with meat or veggies off the grill. Quinoa adds protein and fiber to make this salad extra satisfying. Make ahead but add the avocado right before serving.
KATE MATHIS
A salad you don’t typically see at a picnic spread. This grilled seafood salad is a great pescatarian-friendly addition to a potluck.
KATE MATHIS
A fun and flavorful vegetarian option to include on your barbecue spread. For a protein boost, add some extra firm tofu.
Grillfests call for skewers. Quick cooking chicken sausage stacks up perfectly with cuts of onions and bell peppers.
Matt Armendariz
These pepper cups take tortillas out of the equation. Prepare in the oven or on the grill in an aluminum trays tray for easy clean up.
Every bite of these lemony bars taste like summer. Make ahead and store in the freezer to prevent quick melting on the picnic buffet.
A sweet and salty gluten-free cookie option that everyone at the party will fight over – make a double batch!
Tara Donne
These nostalgic cupcakes make everyone smille. They will quickly become a holiday picnic tradition.
Skewers can also be for dessert. Finish with white or dark chocolate for a smidge of decadence.
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