There are various patriotic holidays throughout the year, but none is celebrated more joyfully than Independence Day. I'm not sure whether that's because we're so happy about our freedom in America or because we get to witness loud, colorful explosions. My guess is that in recent decades it has become more the latter than the former reason. But lest we become too complacent about our American freedoms, no one should lose sight of the original reason for celebration. That aside, this is one of America's most colorful celebrations. Flaunt with pride your red, white and blue colors!
If you're entertaining this July 4th, it will probably involve a barbecue at home or a picnic at the fireworks. By this time in the summer season, it only seems natural to bring the fun outside. You can set the patriotic mood with both your food and your summertime table accessories. To help you set the mood with your outdoor dining, I've put together several colorful food ideas and a list of what I feel are the most exciting entertaining accessories this season.
Setting the Mood with Food
Remember that simple, fresh food can be the star of your table anytime, even if you can't afford stylish accessories. Here are several food combinations that will help to convey your patriotic style.
- A large crystal bowl of mixed blueberries and strawberries accompanied by a bowl of whipped cream.
- White corn on the cob served in a red or blue ceramic bowl.
- Red pepper slices served with a blue cheese dip on the side.
- Blue tortilla chips with red salsa.
- Sliced red tomatoes layered with slices of mozzarella.
- Blue Jell-O with raspberries mixed in, topped with whipped cream.
- Star shaped cookies with white frosting, sprinkled with red and blue sugars.
- Fill a clear vase with firm blueberries and water, and then carefully add an arrangement of red and white roses.
- Visit About's Home Cooking site for an extensive list of red, white and blue recipes.
My Favorite Picks for Summertime and July 4th Entertaining Accessories
Black and Purple Backpack for 4 - Cooking.com offers this practical and stylish, albeit untraditional, backpack for transporting your picnic on a summer day. Besides the usual picnic accessories there is a fully detachable duffel for wine and an insulated compartment for food.
Bridgewater Potter Starry French Bowl Set - These lovely white bowls with blue stars on them will be the perfect containers for ripe, red strawberries or cherries.
Become crafty and create a festive centerpiece with the help of About's Interior Decorating site.
