July means one thing to us here—we're in full-on summer mode. We've got busy schedules trying to fit everything in, from pool parties, to barbecues, to road trips, to Independence Day celebrations...the month always seems to fly by. As the saying goes, "Time flies when you're having fun!" But the important question is, what are we cooking for all these festivities?
Seeing as the Fourth of July takes over the beginning of the month, we're happy to set off some recipe fireworks and then move on from the red, white, and blue to find inspiration for the rest of the month. Let these summer favorites be your guide.
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4th of July Flag Cake
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Let's kick it off straight away with our patriotic dessert favorites to honor the Fourth. And what better way than with this red, white, and blue cake? This recipe is easy and delicious, and totally on theme with its mix of blue and red berries decorated like a flag on a no-bake pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping base. The sparklers on top are a must.
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4th of July Pulled Pork
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We're including this recipe because of its name of course, but also because pulled pork is a summer barbecue staple. This version has a zesty mix of seasonings and feeds 10, so it’s great for a crowd. Be sure to leave plenty of time for cooking to get the signature fall-apart texture.
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Best Homemade Lemonade Ever
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Your summer occasions aren't complete without a cold refreshing pitcher of lemonade. And this one earns its name. Allrecipes members agree with over 2,500 5-star reviews. One even wrote “Have made this more than a few times now, and the only thing that I continually get from the family is, ‘Are you gonna make this again??’ Uh, I just made it...” We’ll take another batch, too! We need something to wash down all the fabulous grub.
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Dave's Low Country Boil
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Is there a more fun seasonal spread to serve on a picnic table than a seafood boil? We think not. As recipe creator Lisa says, "This boil is done best on an outdoor cooker. It has sausage, shrimp, crab, potatoes, and corn for an all-in-one-pot, all-you-can-eat buffet! Grab a paper plate and a beer and enjoy!" And if it seems daunting at first, we've got you covered with tips on hosting a shrimp boil.
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Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad
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Need a side for literally any event? Take it from Chef John, "This deli-style macaroni salad will always be a crowd-pleaser, whether it's sitting next to some smoky ribs or just a humble hot dog." And take it from us, the crunchy bite from the peppers makes all the difference.
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Summer Corn Salad
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Recipe creator Eileen is hitting all the right notes here with another perfect summer side. “This summer corn salad has chunks of tomato and onion and a flavorful fresh basil vinaigrette.” You had us at fresh corn. Since this is a simple dish, you can easily make it your own with sliced (in-season!) jalapeños or fresh herbs.
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Lobster Rolls
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As the recipe page states, "No matter where you live, this lobster roll recipe will make you feel like you’re on a coastal vacation." This recipe makes a great base to build your perfect sandwich masterpiece, packed with fresh lobster and summer flavors.
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Grilled Tomahawk Steak
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Creator and Allrecipes Allstar Ashley Elizabeth won the Ultimate Allstar Showdown with this recipe deemed the most impressive to hit the grill—which makes it the perfect main event to feature on your summer menu. She adds, “This grilled tomahawk steak recipe is a showstopper, ideal for sharing with friends and family. This reverse-seared steak is cooked to perfection with an unctuous compound butter filled with shallots, garlic, and chives.” We can see why it grabbed the top spot.
P.S. Try the runner-up Bihari Kabab recipe as well for grill-perfect kababs.
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Kofta Kebabs
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And speaking of kebabs, July is finally the month I’m going to try these lamb skewers that make easy and flavorful additions to a beautiful mezze spread for a picnic or a soirée under the stars. The tips on the recipe page suggest serving with yogurt, flatbread, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. I’ll be making this Quinoa Tabbouleh on the side, too.
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Baked Beans from Scratch
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One more summer side we would be remiss not to include, here: Baked beans are a classic staple, and always a crowd-pleaser. This savory yet sweet favorite is made by cooking navy beans with ketchup, maple syrup, brown sugar, molasses, and more zesty seasonings for a perfect tangy balance.
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Chef John’s Gazpacho
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When it's too hot to cook, you're full from all the hot dogs and hamburgers, you have summer produce to use up, or all of the above, turn to gazpacho for a light lunch or dinner. This chilled, vibrant, acidic soup bursts with flavor from fresh ingredients. "I'm a huge fan of gazpacho and have tried many different recipes. I keep coming back to this one. I love it - I did not change a thing!" exclaims reviewer Lisa.
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No-Bake Energy Bites
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Get on-the-go sustenance without turning on the oven with these easy, nutritious snacks for wherever your July day takes you. There is something for everyone in these bite-sized treats, from oats, to chocolate chips, to peanut butter. Include the kids in making and customizing their new top choice nosh for a lazy summer day activity.
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White Peach Sangria
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Take your seasonal fruit and turn it into a fun co*cktail to serve on the patio this month. With hundreds of 5-star reviews, it seems like you can’t go wrong. MDH192 agrees, noting “I LOVE this recipe and make it more often than I should admit. We even served it at our wedding. I have yet to meet someone who didn't rave about it.”
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Easy Key Lime Pie
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Oh my, Key Lime Pie, I wait all year for you. And this simplified version is just the ticket to dessert satisfaction. “This easy key lime pie recipe is the 1999 American Pie Council's National Pie Championship's 1st place winner in the Quick and Easy Category. If you like, garnish each piece with a slice of lime and a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping.” says creator DINNER2.
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Rocky Road Ice Cream
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Since July is National Ice Cream Month, we have to celebrate the best way we know how, making our own homemade ice cream. Get the whole family involved and throw in your favorite mix-ins from fresh fruit like cherries or strawberries, to cookie bits, candy pieces, and more. Or make a homemade version of a DQ Blizzard. I’m starting with good old Rocky Road. I might even go all out and make homemade cones while I’m at it.