HBD USA
you only turn 250 once!
It’s America’s bday and if I am being honest with you all I am seriously feeling some American pride this year!! All of the wholesome World Cup content really has me in my feels. We are heading down south for the day to celebrate with my family and will be enjoying everything that makes America great: hot dogs, ranch, air conditioning and maybe even a fountain Diet Coke. What could be better?? (Don’t say a spritz in Italy just let me have this).
I have been loving having friends over for casual dinners. I’m not a big fancy dinner party gal, but I do love an open door policy and cooking for my people. It’s more of a grab yourself a drink from the fridge and delicious food served family-style than a plated dinner on expensive China type of deal but that’s the way I like it. When I’m hosting, 95% of what I’m making is done before anyone steps foot in the door. Also, you don’t get a reward for doing it all. If someone wants to bring something they’re proud of, let them! It’s a win win. I always welcome an app, drinks, or dessert with open arms. You can never have too much!
I’m breaking down how I prep for cooking for a crowd to make sure I’m not stressed out when I’m hosting and can actually enjoy myself. Nothing throws off a vibe like a frantic host!! Here’s a little guidance if you’re feeling the pre-hosting jitters.
What to make the day before
Salad dressings- Never make a dressed salad in advance, but you can prep everything else and toss right before serving to make sure nothing gets soggy. I keep this same rule for coleslaw, even though some people say it can be made fully ahead.
Desserts- I love something that can be made fully ahead of time because usually after I’m done getting everyone fed, I just want to chill. My Key Lime Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect after dinner treat.
Apps- I always choose an app that can be made ahead the day before. This is where I like to keep things super simple! My French Onion Dip tastes even better the next day btw.
Spice rubs/marinades- If you’re grilling, all of your proteins can (and should) be marinating the day before. This way all you have to do is throw your proteins on the grill when you’re ready to serve. This Hot Honey Grilled Chicken & Peaches recipe is incredible if you’re grilling and want something that feels a little more elevated.
Prep and organize- No chopping veggies the day of hosting! Get everything organized in your fridge and for the love of God throw out your old leftovers before you drive yourself crazy with fridge tetris.
Lay out serveware- Frantically searching for that platter collecting dust in your garage while you have food burning on the grill is a big no. Get all of the serveware you need cleaned and set out the night before.
What to make the morning of
Slow cooked items- I almost always have a slow cooker component when I host. It covers a main or a side and you don’t need to even think about it. I made these slow cooker baked beans for my BBQ and they were super easy and delish! If you’re making the ribs from my cookbook, you will want to get these in the oven a few hours before you’re ready to grill to make sure they have enough time to get fall-off-the-bone tender.
Set the table- This should be done in the morning! The day will creep up on you and it’s always nice to have the table set to get it out of the way early.
What to make fresh
Dress the salad- No one likes a soggy salad! Toss it right before you’re about to eat. I like to go light on the dressing and leave some on the side so people can add more if they prefer heavier dressing.
Proteins/Mains- If you’re not slow cooking, proteins should be made fresh and hot off the grill. Don’t stress about having everything done at once, just call out what’s ready and people will make their way over when they’re ready. Please make sure you don’t get anyone sick and get yourself a meat thermometer!!! Better safe than sorry.
Keep. It. Simple. Don’t worry about a large menu, just keep it small and well done. I like to do 1-2 easy apps, a main (or for a BBQ I do a few different proteins with the same marinade and sauce), a veggie side and a carb. And of course, a dessert! If you’re not into making dessert, this is the first corner I cut for something store bought.
Burrata Caprese Salad- A 5 minute app that everyone will love! The perfect way to use up your garden tomatoes.
Peach Crostini- This one is always a crowd pleaser. Seems fancy but takes almost no time at all!
Grilled Corn & Feta Slaw- I am truly obsessed with this recipe!!! It was such a hit at my BBQ too.
BBQ Chicken- You can give this same treatment to any protein and throw it on the grill. Been loving doing it with salmon! I also highly recommend the BBQ Oven Ribs from my cookbook!
Slow Cooker Shredded Steak Tacos- A taco bar never fails! Plus the slow cooker does all the work so all you have to do is prep the toppings the day before.
Key Lime Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches- You guys are going to freak out over these!!! No bake and make ahead, just like my Smore’s Rice Krispies (which is another summer favorite).
Happy 4th and stay safe! xo
Love this! Thank you for all the great tips and delicious eats! Hope you have an amazing Fourth of July with your sweet family!❤️🤍💙
the key lime bars are you kidding me!!