Star-Spangled All-American Cookout!

 The July heat is on and for the 4th of July we all will be in celebration with our friends and family!  Most of us celebrate the 4th with barbecues and family gatherings. Big or small your 4th of July celebration will be a success with some simple ideas.
What is on your menu for the 4th?  You want it to be easy but delicious and if it is a barbecue be it hamburgers, hot dogs or barbecue like pulled pork, ribs, etc., then you will definitely need some sides to go with your menu and theme.
Traditionally, what complements barbecue are potato salads, baked beans and coleslaw.  Complete your summertime barbecue with these tempting side dishes.
Potato salad can be made simply or with a unique spin like adding bacon to your salad or even adding steamed vegetables for an added surprise and flavor.  Your baked beans can be your favorite family recipes or you can spice it up with additions like root beer and please don’t forget the molasses!  Cole slaw can be as colorful as you wish, so go with a red, white and blue theme with red, green and purple cabbage. I salute the slaw!
What else goes with barbecue? How about some crispy bite sized Hush Puppies? You can add whatever additions to those crispy little nuggets because they will be devoured for sure.
And of course, you have to have corn on the cob for your barbecue. Try your hand at different flavored butters from spicy to herby with such items as jalapeños, dill, chive, parsley, lime and even cheese! Go wild and be creative!
How about adding chopped red peppers and some herbs with the buttered corn on the cob – delicious.
It is always fun to have lots of flags and red, white and blue ribbons or streamers for your meal celebration.  Don’t forget the appetizers, crudités and vegetables are always appreciated. Add your favorite dip and you’re off to the races.
Dessert can be anything with the red, white and blue inspired theme such as a cake with strawberries and blueberries or a beautiful berry pie, try making some stars and stripe lattice cutouts with your crust.
Looking for barbecue? Please join us at Southern Smoke BBQ & Brewhouse located at 24255 Main Street in Old Town Newhall. Please call us at 661-888-4585. Visit our website at: www.ssbbqbrew.com.