5 Things: Easy Recipes for the Fourth of July

Since we'll be traveling tomorrow, I'm going to share what would typically be a "Friday" post with you guys! 

There are so many yummy things to make/eat/drink for this holiday. It's summer, so all kinds of deliciousness is in season (namely berries, my favorite) - and that leads us to some perfect summer bites. Click the photos for quick links to each recipe!

1. Ina Garten's Flag Cake

Okay, okay, so this isn't EASY. But it's is a classic. I'm sure you've seen it on many celebrity Instagrams in years past (cough Taylor Swift cough). If you don't want to pipe the frosting in for the white stripes, just use whipped cream. My favorite part about this recipe is that it includes over two sticks of butter. Because #yolo. 

2. Cucumber Margarita

Still packs all the punch of a traditional marg, but is SUPER refreshing and crisp thanks to the infusion of cucumber in the tequila. Dangerous, because they are quite drinkable. Proceed with patriotic caution. 

3. Pasta Caprese Salad

Let someone else handle the main course - if you bring this side, you'll be the talk of the party. It's incredibly easy to make, and is a nice, light antidote to the heavier dishes that will inevitably be served. 

4. Martha's Firecracker Popsicles

This is a great one to involve kids in making. The whole thing takes under 30 minutes - all you need are the ingredients, some popsicle trays, and some popsicle sticks! The yogurt base makes them super creamy instead of watery, so they'll last even in the heat of the day. 

5. One-Pitcher Sangria

 

Had to add at least one more cocktail. Ha! This is a "dump" recipe - you dump everything in, and voila! Nothing beats a cold drink on a hot day. 

I hope everyone has something fun planned for this weekend, and that, especially in an international climate that includes refugees and airport shootings, we all take more than just a few second this weekend to consider the enormous gift of living in the United States. It's overwhelming. 

Love y'all!!