Every year my neighborhood holds an old-fashioned celebration in honor of Independence Day. Usually someone hosts the main event with a delicious assortment of foods prepared by either the host or neighborhood guests. It is an event that makes you feel blessed to be surrounded by friends in a wonderful community. As with most parties, the party is not only centered around the fireworks but also around the food. If you are planning on hosting a 4^th of July block party or perhaps looking at attending a 4^th of July picnic, you may be facing some interesting food challenges. Not only do you have to contend with those well-meaning relatives and friends who desperately try to accommodate you on your diet, but you also have to be somewhat creative on finding gluten-free foods at picnics, neighborhood parties, boating excursions and outdoor barbecues. We hope we can provide some helpful suggestions this 4^th of July on how to not only survive, but actually thrive on this wonderful summer holiday.

Suggestion #1:

If you happen to be invited as a guest to a 4^th of July celebration, offer to bring some delicious gluten-free foods that everyone will enjoy. Not only will your friends and family see how delicious gluten-free food can be, you will also be assured that you can safely enjoy something at the party.

Chicken Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Kalamata Olives

Suggestion #2:

Focus on foods that are naturally gluten-free. This will assure that the foods you bring will be enjoyed by everyone. There is no need to apologize for funny-tasting gluten-free food, because naturally gluten-free foods taste just like they should, with no crazy alterations.

Suggestion #3:

If you are planning on hosting a 4^th of July event, don’t be afraid to eliminate rolls, bread and other gluten-free items from the menu. If you provide a nice assortment of naturally gluten-free snacks (for example; chips, vegetable platter, fruit platter, cheese & meat tray), an assortment of grilled meats and corn on the cob, perhaps a nice summer salad, and a simple dessert of ice cream, your guests will not miss the usual hamburgers with buns, bread and rolls.

Suggestion #4:

Chili Grilled Corn

If you are planning on going to someone else’s house for the 4^th, pick up a plastic cutting mat from any kitchen store or even a local grocery store. These are easy and light weight to transport, dishwasher safe and provide a contamination free cutting board, should you need to slice some vegetables, meat or whatnot.

Suggestion #5:

If you plan to be the host we have a plethora of recipes to choose from for a delicious summer menu. Here is a wonderful summer entertaining menu that would be perfect for a 4^th of July neighborhood picnic:

Happy 4^th!

- Glutenfreeda