4th of July means barbecue! Burgers, bratwurst, ribs, pulled pork, corn on the cob.  But sometimes 4th of July menu planning involves more than just the main meal. Our celebrations often mean guests spend the better part of the day with us.  So as you plan your menu really think about party flow and timing.

You might start by having cold and room temperature appetizers set out.  A few hours later serve chilled gazpacho.  As dinnertime nears, grill shrimp for guests to munch on.  Serve dessert later.  And if your friends are 'the party like rock star' types, set out platters of fresh fruit and chocolate fondue or homemade cookies later in the evening, as the party winds down.  Be sure sure to have pots of hot coffee to ensure your guests are sober for the drive home.

Appetizer Ideas: Gazpacho shots, grilled shrimp, bruschetta with various toppings, chicken wings, antipasto platter, prosciutto-wrapped figs with gorgonzola and walnuts, sun-dried tomato vegetable dip, crab dip with garlic saltines and roasted cherry tomatoes.

Main Course: Burger bar with an assortment of cheeses, chili, sauerkraut, different mustards, raw and caramelized onions, tomatoes, bacon, sauteed mushrooms, barbecue sauce ketchup and horseradish. Spareribs or country style ribs slathered in your favorite barbecue sauce.

Sides: Corn on the cob. potato and pasta salad, coleslaw and baked beans.

Dessert: Brownies, lemon squares, coconut macaroon bars, 4th of July themed cupcakes  and sheet cakes or fresh blueberry or strawberry desserts.  Leave star cupcakes and cookies unadorned and let children decorate them.  Try a chocolate fondue with fresh fruit or a strawberry tree with dipping sauce. Have a stash of popsicles in the refrigerator for the kids.

Beverages: Be sure to have plenty of bottled water and soda.  Have pitchers of lemonade, iced tea or water with slices of lemon, limes and oranges that both kids and adults can enjoy. Adult beverages such as, margaritas, mojitos, slush and daiquiris are perfect for a hot summer day.  Use star ice cube trays for an added touch of whimsy to chill drinks.  To take it up a notch make a blueberry, strawberry and raspberry puree,  Red, white and blue ice cubes!

Enjoy your star spangled feast and Happy 4th of July!

Email your home entertaining questions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Come meet us in person:

Chicago Botanic Gardens, "Take your Entertaining from Nice to WOW!", July 14, 2010, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Chicago Botanic Gardens, "The Little Black Dress Principle for Entertaining", August 10, 2010, 10 - 11 a.m. Chicago Botanic Gardens, "Transitioning from Outdoor to Indoor Entertaining", September 23, 2010, 10 - 11 a.m.