If you like fireworks and celebrating America’s Birthday, these recipes will fire up your taste buds and get you and your family ready to kick off Independence Day. This is the time of year when families and friends get together for reunions, BBQ’s, picnics, pool parties, fireworks and delicious food! Doesn’t get much better than that!
It is no secret that hot dogs are a staple at most Fourth of July celebrations. In fact, it is estimated that Americans consume ~150 million hot dogs on the Fourth of July, which is why its designated as National Hot Dog Month! That’s enough hot dogs to stretch from Los Angeles to Washington DC over 5 times! If you’re in the market for a hot dog and want a healthier option, check out Hebrew National, a reduced fat version and all beef or Applegate Naturals Hot Dogs are also a low fat option with few ingredients. Vegetarians could try out Smart Dogs, veggie hot dog option. Compared to other veggie options the ingredient list is shorter and doesn’t sound too much like a chemistry lab inventory. If you’re into toppings, here are some fun hot dog toppings to include at your Fourth of July picnic.
Hot Dog Bar Toppings:
- Guacamole
- Black bean salsa
- Pineapple Salsa
- Onions (raw or sautéed)
- Tomatoes
- Jalapenos
- Relish
- Variety of sauces-Ketchup, mustard, BBQ
For all those who love a delicious burger on Independence Day, follow this link to a mouthwatering cheeseburger. Remember, when selecting beef it is always best to look for lean options or try a turkey or chicken option. Kids also love veggie burgers, full of added fiber and veggies. One of my favorites is a grilled Portobello mushroom burger. Or if you’re wanting to reduce your portion size, try making sliders instead of full-sized burgers.
Don’t’ forget the fruit! Dress up the food table with red, white and blue fruits for added patriotism and increased nutrients. Combine watermelons, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and bananas on a skewer. Watermelon will help boost hydration and increase lycopene, which has a role in reducing risk of cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration. Bananas will help increase your potassium intake, strawberries boost vitamin C and increase iron absorption and blackberries and blueberries are jam packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals, which research has shown are associated with cardiovascular and cognitive health and cancer and diabetes prevention. The kids can also help you create these, and they’ll love eating them too! This recipe for a flag fruit kabob is simple, delicious and your little ones will love it.
After you’ve enjoyed a day of grilling out, singing Happy Birthday to America and watching fireworks, check out some of our FREE physical opportunities with your family and friends and then go back home and finish off leftovers.
