With July 4th just around the corner, it’s time to start making plans with family and friends for this special celebration. Independence Day is the perfect excuse to gather your loved ones around you for some fresh air, good food, and quality time together! Trust Mahatma® Rice to help you mark the occasion with a host of easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for outdoor dining. From delicious salads and finger foods to hearty rice dishes — we’ve got you covered. Create an outdoor feast with these delicious recipes, and this year’s July 4th gathering is guaranteed to be one to remember.
Fresh Summer Salads for Your July 4th Celebration
Outdoor dining calls for refreshing salad recipes that will whet the appetite of your guests. This Greek Salad with Feta Cheese and Tomato is always a crowd pleaser during the summer months. Made with fragrant Mahatma Ready to Heat Jasmine Rice, this classic salad recipe takes only 5 minutes to prepare, saving you much needed time in the kitchen on this busy day.
Mouthwatering Summer Salad with Fruit
Alternatively, if you’re looking to add some fruity zest to your salad options, try this Wild Rice and Strawberry Salad. Your family will appreciate the refreshing flavors of this unique salad dish. The combination of strawberries and traditional salad ingredients takes the flavor profile up a notch. The result? A highly satisfying salad for a very special occasion. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to share the recipe!
Fun Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
As guests await the main meal, it’s always nice to have tempting finger foods and savory side dishes to snack on. The secret here is to offer variety. This Arancini Air Fryer Italian Rice Balls recipe is the kind of side dish that’s capable of stealing the show at your Independence Day feast. Cheesy and bite-sized, be sure to prepare a big batch, because these classic Arancini balls are sure to fly off the platter as soon as they reach the table.
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Looking for something special to serve with nachos, crackers, or pita chips? This Sriracha Ranch Rice Dip is just the thing! Made with jasmine rice, corn, red peppers, ranch dressing, and of course, spicy Sriracha sauce, your loved ones will be grateful that even the dips on offer have been prepared especially for the occasion.
Best Foods to Serve with Dips
- Tortilla chips
- Bread sticks
- Celery
- Carrot sticks
- Cucumber
- Pita wedges
- French fries
Best 4th of July Food for Outdoor Dining
When planning an outdoor family celebration, sometimes it can be hard to find the perfect recipe to serve to a large group of people. Luckily, Mahatma Rice is here to inspire you with three delicious yet easy-to-make rice recipes that are sure to go down a treat. This Chicken Biryani recipe is a hearty rice meal that’s bursting with flavor. Made with succulent chicken, fragrant Mahatma® Basmati Rice, and a whole host of delicious herbs, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Best of all, it takes just 40 minutes to prepare.
Alternatively, if you know that your loved ones would enjoy a dish that’s packed with bright, fresh seafood, try this Shrimp Pico Rice Skillet. A mouthwatering shrimp recipe with the signature flavors of Tex Mex cuisine, this classic dish will feel right at home at your July 4th celebration.
Vegan and Vegetarian Main Dish
Expecting some vegetarians to be in attendance? Don’t fret, this simple Avocado Lime Rice is a delightful main dish that will more than satisfy those in your family who prefer meat-free meals. Ready in 20 minutes, it makes for a stress-free veggie alternative.
Sweet Treats to Complete Your July 4th Feast
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Finally, no celebration would be complete without some delicious desserts to help you end things on a sweet note. This Key Lime Rice Pudding Pie is a popular American dessert that will delight and refresh in equal measure. Served in slices, it’s a creamy classic with a fruity kick that’s ideal for large gatherings.
Likewise, if you’re looking for a cold treat to cap things off, whip up a batch of this Horchata Ice Cream. Nothing puts the cherry on top of a perfect summer celebration than a creamy bowl of delicious ice cream.
Celebrate July 4th in Style!
Once the meal is over, take a moment to pat yourself on the back for providing your loved ones with a marvelous meal to accompany a special moment in our nation’s history. At Mahatma® Rice, we believe food brings people together. It’s the common bond we have with our family, friends, and community. So #playwithyourfood this July 4th and celebrate in style!
For more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out our blog.