Celebrate July 4th by getting the most out of your red, white, and blue foods. We’re not talking artificially-colored goodies, but rather fresh and delicious fruits and veggies in naturally-patriotic tones.

Red
Red hued foods have tons of antioxidants like vitamins A and C. They get their red color from phytochemicals like lycopene and anthocyanins. Lycopene is an antioxidant found in foods like watermelon and tomatoes and helps protect our healthy tissues from free-radical damage. Anthocyanins are found in foods like cherries and strawberries. This powerful antioxidant helps fight inflammation and protects your blood vessels and nervous system.

• Cherry recipe: Peaches With Balsamic Cherries
• Strawberry recipe: Strawberries With Basil Granita
• Tomato recipe: Tomato Salad
• Watermelon recipe: Frozen Watermelon Margaritas

Smoky Corn on the Cob - Photo by Con Poulos/FN Magazine

Roll up your sleeves and dive into a seafood fest this holiday weekend. Whether you’ll be celebrating in the sand, poolside, or indoors, these recipes can’t be beat.

Crowd-Pleasing Main Courses
Kitchen Clambake
Lobster Rolls
Mustard Roasted Salmon
Grilled Shrimp with Chili Cocktail Sauce

Simple Sides
Yellow Trio Salad
Smoky Corn on the Cob
Tomato Salad with Herbs

Festive Desserts
Mixed Berries with Limoncello
Angel Food Cake and Berries

Beat-the-Heat Beverages
Iced Tea
Make Your Own Margaritas
Summer Cocktails

More healthy ideas for the 4th

Tell Us: What’s your go-to July 4th recipe?

My family celebrates every Fourth of July with a big backyard pool party before we head out to see the city’s fireworks display. There’s always plenty of people and, of course, plenty of food. Whether you’re hosting your own bash, big or small, here are some recipes for a festive, flavorful spread.

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