What kind of mayhem are you getting up to this Fourth of July—potluck in the park, perhaps? If so, I’ve got some really top recipes for your bringing-along pleasure. A little on-trend, a little super-easy, all so you can kick back in a lawn chair and collect the potluck compliments, as is your due. Happy Fourth!
Andrew Zimmern’s Corn and Green Tomato SaladIf you’re lighting up the grill for your own dinner, why not char some jalapenos and corn for a really pretty salad to bring to a weekend potluck?
New Potato Vinaigrette Potato SaladDo you get nervous about food safety with mayonnaise potato salads sitting in the sun? Then make one that’s just potatoes, herbs, shallots, and a vinaigrette: So easy, and it gets better if you make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for a day.
Butter Bean Salad with Lime and MintGet three boxes of frozen lima beans and you’re well on the road to a classic Southern side-dish. You can combine the beans and the dressing a couple days in advance and just toss in the mint right before you leave the house.
Cold Sesame Noodles with Whatever You’ve Got In The Fridge!Here’s how you use everything cool from the farmer’s market or just clear out your crisper drawer: Step one, make a hearty noodle, like buckwheat soba, or whole wheat spaghetti. After it’s cooked, cool it down, then toss with sesame oil so the noodles won’t stick together. Then you’re going to make a simple sesame dressing with soy sauce and garlic. I always add peanuts but you don’t have to. Then toss the noodles in the sauce, and add as many fresh things like - snow peas, green beans, arugula, parsley, cabbage - whatever you’ve got. This is a life-changing recipe!
Fancy Milk Bar Salted Chocolate Chip CookiesI know you’re just going to bring your famous bars to the pot-luck, but if you decide to mix it up, how about also bringing some fancy cutting-edge foodie cookies? These also happen to be one-bowl and easy. Just blend sugar in a bowl with a wooden spoon, add melted butter and a few more things, including nonfat milk powder which I think gives them just a richer taste. Bake, dust with finishing salt, and there you are! Giving the teen girl in your life an Instagram brag-worthy potluck for her Fourth of July!