I know that everyone loves hamburgers and hot dogs on the 4th of July, and it definitely works for a BBQ with lots of kids in attendance, but usually we like to grill chicken as well. Most 4th of July recipes are pretty simple since grilling is not rocket science, but everyone always asks me for the recipe that I use for grilled chicken because it always comes out so good. It is also very easy to make, which is super convenient when you are grilling up food for a lot of people. All you have to do is mix equal parts of yellow mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and whatever seasonings you normally like on your BBQ chicken. Baste the chicken before you grill it, but also make sure to save some of the sauce for after it is done grilling to make it more flavorful. I also love doing skewers of steak with bell peppers. If you know your guests will like spiciness, add some chipotle sauce! Skewers are easy and definitely a BBQ favorite.

Since a lot of our friends are vegetarians, we like to make grilled cheese sandwiches right on the BBQ. It is one of my favorite 4th of July recipes because it is simple and helps everyone feel included in the cook out. All you need is French bread sliced down the middle, basted with just a touch of melted butter and garlic on both sides. Next, add slices of tomatoes and your choice of cheese. I like using provolone, but any kind of cheese works great. Most people have fresh lettuce and condiments out anyway for the people who are eating regular cheeseburgers and hot dogs, so adding things to these amazing grilled cheese sandwiches is easy. Another plus of having grilled cheese is that you can make them for the kids as well- there are picky eaters at every party so even making a sandwich with just the cheese is easy and a crowd-pleaser.

One of my all time favorite 4th of July recipes is corn on the cob roasted with parmesan. Just know that once you make it one year, everyone will be begging you to make it from then on out! It is extremely easy to do and definitely adds a delicious twist on regular corn on the cob. All you have to do is brush some mayonnaise on the ears of corn, and then sprinkle them liberally with shredded parmesan cheese. I like to add a dash of chili powder to the cheese, but just salt and pepper will be fine. Wrap the corn in aluminum and stick them on the grill! They are so delicious that everyone will want seconds. I also love to make fruit salads every Fourth of July because they are refreshing and add a dash of color to your buffet spread. To keep with the red, white and blue theme, slice strawberries in halves and add blueberries. I always add lemon juice, which gives the fruit a delicious tang and keeps it tasting fresh all day.